breechloader

American  

[breech-loh-der] / ˈbritʃˌloʊ dər /

noun

1. a firearm loaded at the breech.

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Etymology

Origin of breechloader

First recorded in 1855–60; breech + loader

Example Sentences

France has adopted the Kropatochek magazine rifle, Germany the Manser rifle, Austria the Mannlicher magazine rifle, Italy the Bertoldo magazine rifle, Russia the Berdan breechloader, Turkey the American rifle.

From Buchanan's Journal of Man, August 1887 Volume 1, Number 7 by Buchanan, Joseph R. (Joseph Rodes)

The "Dutchman," being a breechloader, was ready again, and we fired into this stupid-looking brute as though he had been a target, and with about the same effect.

From Ismailia by Baker, Samuel White, Sir

For military purposes the breechloader has manifold advantages—as the soldier can load while lying down, and keep up a rapid fire from a secure cover.

From Wild Beasts and Their Ways, Reminiscences of Europe, Asia, Africa and America — Volume 1 by Baker, Samuel White, Sir

He enjoyed no luxurious education—luxurious in the sense of scientifically arranged dormitories, ample meals, and vacations to be spent on horseback, or with the breechloader.

From Hodge and His Masters by Jefferies, Richard

Then, in 1855, England's Lord Armstrong designed a rifled breechloader that included so many improvements as to be revolutionary.

From Artillery Through the Ages A Short Illustrated History of Cannon, Emphasizing Types Used in America by Manucy, Albert