Another time period question... Mule Ear Locks

[Old40Rod]

Didn't get much response to this question on the percussion forum :hmm: what is the appropriate era for mule ear lock use? Any info will be helpful and appreciated.

 

[Metalshaper]

Old40rod,

The Mule ear lock is considered to be a mid to late 1830's era lock. It was used infrequently up and through the 1850's. After the start of the 1860's and the Civil war, it pretty much fell by the wayside.
The CW Jenks carbine,< although a breech loader, using loose powder and ball> had its original patent approved in something like 1837-38. A later improved patent was issued in 1849. This was the only gun adapted by the US military to utilize a mule ear lock. The only one who had its lockplate held onto the weapon by it percussion cone. and only the third US model to load from the wrong end.
:{D
There was a Maynard tape primed variant produced. and it's lineage continued on with the Merril carbine, which is considered an improved Jenks.

Hope this helps some..

and yes, I kinda like the Jenks carbines. So much so, I'm trying to buld one from scratch..

Respect Always
Metalshaper

 

[Old40Rod]

Thank you sir! This is more information that I have been able to find locally (very small town where the largest book collection is in somebody's bathroom ) I am looking to build a percussion .36 but wanted something a bit more unique to distract the guys on the firing line.