During the American Civil War (1861-1865), firearms played a crucial role in combat. Soldiers primarily used rifled muskets, such as the Springfield Model 1861, which had improved accuracy and range compared to earlier smoothbore muskets. These weapons fired Minié balls, conical bullets that expanded upon firing, increasing lethality. In addition to muskets, various other firearms were utilized, including revolvers and cannon. The Henry rifle and Spencer carbine introduced repeating mechanisms, allowing soldiers to fire multiple rounds without reloading. The advancements in firearms technology during this period significantly impacted battle strategies and outcomes.