Jean Samuel Pauly’s 1814 Patent: Apparatus for Discharging Fire-Arms by Means of Compressed Air

The 1814 patent specification by Jean Samuel Pauly represents a landmark moment in the history of firearms innovation. Officially titled "Apparatus for Discharging Fire-Arms by Means of Compressed Air," this patent (No. 3833) outlines a groundbreaking approach to firearm discharge mechanisms, moving away from traditional gunpowder ignition to a compressed air system.
Pauly, an engineer of notable repute, proposed a design wherein the rapid action of a syringe or similar instrument would introduce atmospheric air into the chamber or barrel of the firearm, igniting the gunpowder by creating a compressed environment. This method was revolutionary for its time, offering a more reliable and potentially safer alternative to the conventional methods of firearm operation. The detailed patent description includes intricate illustrations and technical explanations, showcasing the ingenuity behind Pauly's vision.
Pauly's specification delineates a comprehensive approach to preventing the escape o...

 


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