The term is often used to refer specifically to the Joslyn Model 1861/1862, which was the first mass-produced breech-loading rifle produced at the Springfield Armory.

Benjamin Franklin Joslyn was known as one of the most interesting gun designers during the U.S. Civil War, but he was known more for his constant clashes with sub-contractors and the Federal Government than he was for the quality of his arms.

In 1865 the Argentine Armed Forces acquired a small amount of M1855 and M1864 carbines; those were trialed and used by the cavalry against the natives.

[2] After the war ended, the U.S. Government canceled all remaining contracts, claiming that the rifles failed to meet specifications.

[3] In 1871, 6,600 carbines as well as 1,600 rifles that had been converted to use the .50-70 Government centerfire cartridge were sold to France for use in the Franco-Prussian War.

[3] The Model 1861 used metal rimfire cartridges and had a laterally hinged block called the "cap" which enveloped the standing breech and could be swung open to the left when the locking catch was released.