Print this page The Evolution of Ordnance
J.M. Syken
Course Outline
Through the viewing of several archival/documentary films produced in the 1960s/70s, we will examine the history of ordnance development for the armed forces of the United States based on the development of firearms at the Springfield Armory starting production in 1795 through to its closure in April 1968.
We will also examine the art and science of the gun maker from the perspective of the Remington Arms Company. This includes the design, manufacture, quality assurance, testing and assembly of rifles of various design, action, calibers etc. and shotguns.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Understand/appreciate the history of the Springfield Armory and its importance to the nation as a manufacturer of firearms for our armed forces;
- Understand/appreciate the development of firearms at the Springfield Armory starting with the post-Revolutionary War period, through the Civil War, the two world wars up to the Vietnam War; and
- Understand/appreciate the art and science of designing and manufacturing a fine rifle/shotgun using modern technology/manufacturing methods along with old world craftsmanship.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for architects, engineers and other design professionals
Benefit to Attendees
The attendee/s will gain an intimate knowledge and insight into the background, history, development, etc. of ordnance.
Course Introduction
The course incorporates the viewing of two archival/documentary films broken down as follows;
- Part 1 – Armory of the Nation
- Part 2 – The Gun Maker’s Art
Part 1 examines the background, history, developments etc. of the Springfield Armory founded in 1777 by George Washington and in operation producing over nine-million firearms from 1795 to April 1968. Part 2 examines the design, manufacture, assembly, testing etc. of the fine firearms produced by the Remington Arms Company.
Course Content
Part 1 – Armory of the Nation;
TITLE: The Guns at Springfield (1971)
LINK: http://archive.org/details/gov.dod.dimoc.30274
DURATION: 28:05
Part 2 – The Gun Maker’s Art;
TITLE: One at a Time (1969)
LINK: http://archive.org/details/gov.archives.arc.12122
DURATION: 27:33
Course Summary
One of the basic needs of a nation and its people is to defend itself from its enemies. During the Revolutionary War, Washington’s army was dependent on captured firearms from the British forces and quality muskets provided by our French ally. After the war, President Washington realized the need for our young nation to be able to produce arms independently without having to depend on others. To this end, the Springfield Armory served the nation through all its conflicts up to the period of the Vietnam War. Without arms, the nation we know would not have been possible nor would our ability to defend it. A quality firearm is a product of careful design, manufacture and workmanship which instills in its owner a pride of ownership.
Related Links
For additional technical information related to this subject, please visit the following websites:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Springfield_Armory
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Remington_Arms
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QgXuhv7-54
(Film - WW2 Infantry Weapons - 28:30)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgXz-njLLV4
(Film: Fundamentals of Ballistics - 18:04)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXh9q4TnCNw&list=TLPQMjIxMDIwMTntxVOpRp8KTQ&index=2
(Film: Remington Arms - "One at a Time" [1969] - 27:33)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhOmSVQDJQQ
(Modern Marvels: Deadliest Weapons - 44:56)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnRPEZJ9uB8
(Film: Tales of the Gun: 14 Gangsters and Guns - 51:06)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bEmrwNRfWA
(Film: The Evolution from Arrows to Artillery - 52:20)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_O1-chxAdk&t=2056s
(Gunsmith of Williamsburg [1969] - 58:10)
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
