The gunsmith's manual : $b A complete handbook for the American gunsmith, being a practical guide to all branches of the trade

"The Gunsmith's Manual" by J. Parish Stelle is a how-to book designed for American gunsmiths during the late 1800s. This manual works as a useful resource to all parts of gunsmithing, starting with the origins of guns to step-by-step directions on making and fixing different firearms, and probably tries to help new and skilled gunsmiths improve their skills in the field. The beginning of the book introduces the history of firearms, from when gunpowder was first used to the creation of modern guns. Early chapters go over important events in firearm technology, like when the first rifles were invented, and explain how weapon firing systems became better over time, transitioning from simple weapons to more complex designs. The text highlights how guns have changed over time and it suggests that gunsmiths need to understand this change, preparing them for the practical advice on gun creation and care that is given later in the book.