I expect experts will weigh in on this, but I believe the first successful military bolt action rifle was the French Lebel or an early Mauser. There were breech loaders in the WBTS, notably the Sharps, and the Spencer and Burnside lever actions. Of course, the Henry would be most recognizable to us as the forerunner of the Winchester, but it was used sparingly. Army Ordnance officials preferred single shots, to save ammunition, i.e. money. Comments? Stan