The technological lag of Russia by the second half of the 19th century became obvious: this was demonstrated as clearly as possible by the course and results of the Crimean War. In search of options for the rapid modernization of the arms industry - and the army as a whole - the imperial authorities turned to many manufacturers of modern models of infantry weapons, but cooperation with American manufacturers played a key role in updating the Russian military sphere. Joseph Bradley's book tells about the difficult, not always successful, but ultimately productive relationship between American and Russian gunsmiths and the historical role played by this partnership.