When Meriwether Lewis began shopping for supplies and firearms to take on the Corps of Discovery's journey west, his first stop was a federal arsenal. For the following twenty-nine months, from the time the Lewis and Clark expedition left Camp Dubois with a cannon salute in 1804 until it announced its return from the West Coast to St. Louis with a volley in 1806, weapons were a crucial component of the participants' tool kit. In Weapons of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, historian Jim Garry describes the arms and ammunition the expedition carried and the use and care those weapons received. The Corps of Discovery's purposes were to explore the Missouri and Columbia river basins, to make scientific observations, and to contact the tribes along the way for both science and diplomacy. Throughout the trek, the travelers used their guns to procure food - they could consume around 350 pounds of meat a day - and to protect themselves from dangerous animals. Firearms were also invaluable in encounters with Indian groups, as guns were one of the most sought-after trade items in the West. As Garry notes, the explorers' willingness to demonstrate their weapons' firepower probably kept meetings with some tribes from becoming violent. The mix of arms carried by the expedition extended beyond rifles and muskets to include pistols, knives, espontoons, a cannon, and blunderbusses. Each chapter focuses on one of the major types of weapons and weaves accounts from the expedition journals with the author's knowledge gained from field-testing the muskets and rifles he describes. Appendices tally the weapons carried and explain how the expedition's flintlocks worked. Weapons of the Lewis and Clark Expedition integrates original research with a lively narrative. This encyclopedic reference will be invaluable to historians and weaponry aficionados.

Whether you've never picked up a gun before, are in law enforcement, or are a seasoned competitor, this book will enable you to solidify your strengths and eliminate your weaknesses in marksmanship. Unlike many other manuals, the techniques conveyed here will not only establish a strong shooting foundation, but will delve into the biomechanics of every particular technique to explain why it works. You will be able to critically analyze your skills, develop the best technique for you, and drive in the muscle-memory to ensure consistency. Inside you will find: - A detailed explanation of the form and function of shooting mechanics such as leverage and depth of focus. - A step-by-step introductory training program for new shooters. - Milestones, training plans & and advanced techniques for experienced shooters (movement, transitions, draws, reloads and more). - Extensive information on firearm/ammunition design, selection, modification, and maintenance. - Discussion on the mental elements of shooting. "This book covers everything that both new and experienced shooters need to know. It's not just another 'how-to.' It will guide you step-by-step to new heights." -Blake Miguez 2011 IPSC World Champion Standard Division "Shooting quickly and accurately is a tough skill to acquire. This book teaches how to develop the correct muscle memory and how to perform under pressure." -P. Burt 15 Year Veteran for a major metropolitan Sheriff's Dept. About the Author: Brad Engmann is an accomplished shooter in competitive leagues such as the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA), the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA), and the Steel Challenge Shooting Association. Some of Brad's most recent achievements include: - Placed 8th Overall in the 2011 USPSA Production Division National Championship. - Was the 2010 USPSA Production Area 2 (California, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado) champion. - Won the Stock Service Pistol division in the 2011 Steel Challenge World Championship. - Finished 3rd Overall in the 2010 US IPSC Production Nationals - Finished 3rd Overall in the 2011 USPSA Production Area 1 Championship (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Montana, Wyoming). - Holds a Grandmaster ranking in USPSA.