Minié Ball — Hand-Cast Lead Bullets

1850s–1860s Pattern — For Springfield & Enfield Rifles

The Minié (Minie) ball revolutionized rifled small arms in the mid-19th century. Invented by Claude-Étienne Minié in 1846, the hollow-based Minié bullet expanded under firing to engage the rifling — giving rifled muskets the range, accuracy, and reliable sealing that smoothbores could not match. It rose to prominence in the Crimean War and the American Civil War, and was the standard projectile for the era’s most common service arms: the British Pattern 1853 Enfield and the American Springfield models.

Our Minié balls are hand-cast using traditional methods in steel molds and finished by hand to the same basic techniques used in the 1850s–1860s. They are made to fit the common service patterns of the period and intended for use in your 1853 Enfield, 1855 Springfield, or 1861 Springfield rifles when loaded in proper period style (paper cartridge, powder down the bore, and rammed to seat).

Product Highlights

• Material: Lead — hand-cast and trimmed by hand

• Pattern: Hollow-based Minié style (expands on firing to engage rifling)

• Compatibility: Produced to fit 1853 Enfield, 1855 Springfield, and 1861 Springfield rifles (confirm specific bore before use)

• Production: Made in small batches; occasional made-to-order runs mean lead time may vary

• Use: Intended for historical reproduction firearms and living history demonstrations; follow safe black-powder loading practices

Handling & Legal Notes

• These are lead projectiles: wash hands after handling, keep away from children and food areas, and follow local health guidance regarding lead.

• Check local laws and event/range rules — possession, transport, and use of lead bullets and period firearms can be regulated.

• For ranges or hunting areas that prohibit lead projectiles, consider approved alternatives.

Shipping / Availability

• Some sizes and quantities may be cast to order. If you need Minié balls for an upcoming event or rendezvous, please notify us at purchase so we can attempt to prioritize your order.