George W. Rains

Colonel George W. Rains established the Confederate powder mill in Augusta, Georgia in 1861. He was in charge of this and related works when, in January 1864, General Robert E. Lee sent him a new carbine (the AK-47) and a supply of its ammunition. Lee requested Rains investigate the new weapon's powder and to attempt to duplicate it. Although Rains was successful in analyzing the powder, he was unable to manufacture it. However, his subordinate, Captain Robert Finney was able to develop reloads using the brass casings of spent rounds and black powder.