Designed by Major George Schofield to be operated with one hand while on horseback, a break-open pistol was ideal for mounted soldiers in the U.S. Cavalry. Shooters could easily eject all six spent cartridges and reload while on horseback. The top break pistol also proved useful to the likes of Jesse James and Wild Bill Hickok. The Schofield barrel latch opens by pulling it back with the thumb and includes the rear sight notch.