Whitworth Rifle M1854

Max effective range

1000 yd

Length

49 in

Ammunition

.54" Hexagonal Bullet

The Whitworth had a very unique .45 hexagonal caliber, along with a hexagonal-shaped bore to fit the bullet. Some of the rifles were made with the 4x Davidson telescopic sight mounted along the left side of the barrel. The Whitworth was considered the first true sniper rifle, being able to accurately hit a target at distances greater than 1,000 yards. The Whitworth was so accurate that it was responsible for the death of Major General John Sedgwick, who was sniped by Confederate sharpshooters from around 1,000 yards. Sedgwick was quoted saying, "They couldn’t hit an elephant at that distance." before he was instantly shot under the left eye, killing him instantly. He was the third highest ranking officer in the Union Army at the time he died, behind Maj. General Meade and Lt. General Grant.