A Shot In The Dark
February 21, 2010 5:19 PM Subscribe
Looking for the best, most comprehensive book on the history and science of firearms, preferably with illustrations, preferably available in the UK.
Okay, so I'm looking to find a really comprehensive book on the development of firearms through history, or maybe books, if the information's spread over a few. I've never fired anything more powerful than an air rifle, and I have little to no understanding of basic ballistics, firearms terminology, all that sort of thing. I'm really interested in things like firing mechanisms, the development of manufacturing processes, and the practical limitations of older designs.
Has anybody come across any really good books on the subject, suitable for a total newbie? A lot of the stuff I've found so far assumes considerable familiarity with terminology and guns in general, and I need something that takes me right from the very, very basics, on up.
This is basically some nerdy research that has sparked my imagination and that I want to get a solid reference book to back up, and as a springboard to more investigations. I've searched online but it's difficult to know what's best, and most of the titles are hardback and thus require a fairly sizeable investment, so I could use some advice before I splash out. Any useful places to start would be much appreciated! Thank you.
Okay, so I'm looking to find a really comprehensive book on the development of firearms through history, or maybe books, if the information's spread over a few. I've never fired anything more powerful than an air rifle, and I have little to no understanding of basic ballistics, firearms terminology, all that sort of thing. I'm really interested in things like firing mechanisms, the development of manufacturing processes, and the practical limitations of older designs.
Has anybody come across any really good books on the subject, suitable for a total newbie? A lot of the stuff I've found so far assumes considerable familiarity with terminology and guns in general, and I need something that takes me right from the very, very basics, on up.
This is basically some nerdy research that has sparked my imagination and that I want to get a solid reference book to back up, and as a springboard to more investigations. I've searched online but it's difficult to know what's best, and most of the titles are hardback and thus require a fairly sizeable investment, so I could use some advice before I splash out. Any useful places to start would be much appreciated! Thank you.
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posted by him at 10:41 AM on March 10, 2010