1776 - Technology

Technology

The Ferguson Rifle patented by Scottish-born Seven Years' War veteran Patrick Ferguson, 32, is a breechloading rifle whose barrel is grooved for accuracy. The best marksman in the British Army, Ferguson has improved on the Chaumette breechloading mechanism used in sporting guns with a device that prevents powder from jamming its action; his rifle can be fired six times per minute, but no more than 200 of them will be used in the war (see politics [Battle of Kings Mountain], 1780).

Crucible steel inventor Benjamin Huntsman dies at Attercliffe, Yorkshire, at age 72 (approximate).