Guns of the Civil War    by Dennis Adler Order:  USA  Can Zenith Press, 2011 (2011) Hardcover, e-Book Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Bob Walch Compiled and written by a recognized expert on American West and Civil War firearms, this lavishly illustrated volume offers an overview of the legendary guns and arms makers of the Civil War era. Before the outbreak of hostilities, the majority of firearms manufactured in the country were made in the north. It wasn't until 1861 that the Confederate States had to begin manufacturing new guns to support their troops. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, the author traces the evolution of gunmaking in the war-torn South as well as the weapons being produced by such established manufacturers as Colt, Smith & Wesson, E. Remington & Sons, Whitney, Rogers & Spencer, and Savage. Following the step-by-step evolution of loose powder cap-and-ball revolvers and rifles in use, as well as the early development of the self-contained metallic cartridge, this informative book follows the sweeping changes in firearms design during the war and afterwards. With 300 color photos and an additional 150 black and white pictures, this illustrated history is a must acquisition for gun collectors, anyone interested in the history American firearms, and Civil War enthusiasts. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews