Book Review: Bullet Strikes From The First Day Of The American Revolution

by
posted on April 15, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Bullet Strikes From The First Day Of The American Revolution

Even though 250 years have elapsed since the fateful first shots of the American Revolution—fired on April 19, 1775—there are still pieces of evidence remaining from the day’s fighting. In Bullet Strikes From The First Day Of The American Revolution, authors Joel Bohy and Douglas Scott provide tantalizing insights gleaned from a comprehensive study of surviving structures and artifacts struck by gunfire during the fighting in and around the towns of Lexington and Concord.

For those interested in 18th century arms, the book is an especially rich trove of data on the actual firearms used during the fighting. Following a brief synopsis of the events of April 19th, a subsequent chapter offers a thorough overview of British and provincial arms and ammunition. Detailed information on the construction and limitations of Revolution-era firearm technology provides a greater understanding of what the fighting was like and how it developed. When paired with a thorough analysis of bullet holes and penetration studies conducted through live-fire testing, the data provides new insights on the fighting that occurred two-and-a-half centuries ago.

Beyond the raw information, Bullet Strikes is also richly illustrated with artwork from renowned artist Don Troiani, as well as maps, period illustrations and images of original arms, artifacts and surviving structures. Five appendices at the end of the book also provide insightful data, ranging from ground-penetrating radar survey reports to an exhaustive analysis of no fewer than 75 surviving British muskets of the period. For students of the American Revolution, Bullet Strikes is a must-have treasure trove of new information.

Suggested retail price for Bullet Strikes From The First Day Of The American Revolution is $36. For more information, visit the Mowbray Publishing website here.

Latest

Japanese Type 38 Arisaka Ihtog 1
Japanese Type 38 Arisaka Ihtog 1

I Have This Old Gun: Japanese Type 38 "Arisaka"

Along with the Type 99, the Japanese Type 38 "Arisaka" was one of the main bolt-action battle rifles used by Japanese imperial forces during World War II.

New For 2025: Stoeger M3000 & P3000 Tactical

Stoeger Industries optimized its inertia-driven M3000 and pump-action P3000 shotgun designs for defensive and tactical use.

Tips & Techniques: Applying A Linseed Oil Finish (Without Turning Your Stock Into A Sticky Mess)

Linseed oil may be the oldest wood finish known to man, with evidence of linseed oil finishes being applied to wood as far back as ancient Egypt.

Rifleman Report: Proficiency Is Key

As the end of the calendar year approaches, and new firearms and related products continue to become available, we’re reminded that, while gear is important, training safely with it while developing familiarity is just as vital.

I Have This Old Gun: British Garate Revolver

World War I, as it would come to be known, rather took most powers by surprise. In 1914, Great Britain, which had not entered into a formal alliance with France and Russia, was expected by some to sit on the sidelines while the others went at it.

Beretta Commemorates 50th Anniversary Of 90 Series Pistol Family

Beretta's popular 90 Series handguns, including the iconic Beretta 92, celebrates 50 years of production in 2025, and to honor the milestone, the company has released a limited-edition variant.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.