Wesley-Richards Monkey Tail

[Steve Weems]

Recently watched an auction for what appeared to be a Wesley-Richards percussion breechloader nick named "Monkey Tail".
Looked like an interesting design and was curious if any of the NSSA shooters have any experience with them. Were they*
used at all in the Civil War? How is the gas seal?*

Thanks for any info---Steve W.

[Mike McDaniel]

I took a few minutes to Google for information. Found http://www.roaring-forties.co.uk/home/monkey-tail-history , which mentions some Confederate private purchases, but no general issue. Doubtless one of the carbine specialists will have more detailed information.

[Mike w/ 34th]

Monkey Tails seal pretty well if you use the right cartridge design. You need to use a thick lubed wad in the base.

There's a Monkey Tail forum at http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.com/forums/27/Monkeytail-Forum

Lots of good info posted there, along with cartridge diagrams, etc.

I've been told you can use an original Monkey Tail for Carbine. I can't recall ever having seen one on the line. I imagine the paper cartridges are too delicate for skirmishing use.

-Michael

[Jim Wimbish, 10395]

I looked at the pictures of the Monkey tail carbine. Design is similar to Jenks and Merrill which also used paper cartridges. I would say that the Merrill is the best of this style of carbine action. Both the Jenks and Monkey tail were older designs from the 1850's. I believe that some Skirmishers have shot Merrill's in competition. Maybe one of them can weigh in on the what they used for ammo and what were the strengths and weaknesses compared to other paper cartridge carbines such as the Sharps.

[bilge water bob]

just saw one on gunbroker last week in great shape. The gentleman auctioning it refers to a prototype naval contract with the weapon put together by A.Waters/ Millbury, Mass. and I believe over 1200 produced, but never purchased by the Gov't and the guns were not martially marked............................................ ..................(enter john Holland, stage right)

[John Holland]

Merrill and Jenks...yes...British Monkey Tail...the burden of proof is upon the person who wants to use it.

JDH