Book Review: 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.