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Cookson repeating rifle
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Cookson repeating rifle

weapon
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Quick Summary

The Cookson repeating rifle was a type of repeating firearm used in North America by the 18th century. It featured separate tubular magazines within the stock for both balls and powder. A lever-activated breech mechanism would select and load a ball and a charge of powder, simultaneously priming the flash pan and setting the gun to half cock.1

Repeating firearms, in general, are designed with a magazine or revolving cylinder that holds multiple rounds. Their action allows for the rapid firing of successive shots. Before the development of self-contained cartridges, repeaters required separate magazines for powder and projectiles.21

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