The Model 1841 Springfield Rifle was commonly referred to as the "Mississippi" after its use by Jefferson Davis's Mississippi volunteers during the Mexican-American War. This rifled weapon was a muzzleloader taking a .54 caliber round ball. Later versions were re-rifled to accept the .58 caliber minie ball. It is possible that some of the 8th Infantry companies stationed at Fort Davis prior to the Civil War were armed with the Mississippi.