Name/Title
Musket, FlintlockEntry/Object ID
1940.7.1Description
Flintlock musket, 70 caliber
Called a “Colonial assemblage,” this musket was hand-fitted from various parts by an independent gunsmith around 1750. It has a narrow channel for a missing steel ramrod, and is of the type commonly used during the French & Indian Wars.
It measures 70 caliber and fired a 69 caliber lead ball with a charge of 60-70 grains of black powder. The stock is of typically British design reminiscent of the Brown Bess, the standard long gun of the British infantry. The lock appears to be of French origin and shows a very faint “B” stamp. At the time the French flintlock mechanisms were very specific as to year of manufacture, so it is likely that it can be positively dated with further research.
The barrel itself is very heavy at the breech and thinner at the end according to military specifications from the period. After the American Revolution, the first federal armory was established at Springfield, Massachusetts and all barrels were proof-tested using a double powder charge and two lead balls. Those that didn’t explode were stamped with a “P” on the top of the barrel. This barrel predates the armory, and is stamped with a crown, indicating it is of British or French origin. The butt plate is reminiscent of German weapons of the period, with two roundhead screw heads exposed. Screws with heads twice that size were used on Dutch muskets.
This musket could fire a ball as far as half a mile, but to hit a man-size target, accuracy beyond 50 yards would be doubtful. There are no sights, because it was intended mostly for point-blank engagements. When volley fire was called for, officers determined the necessary barrel incline using a sextant-like device, a carryover from English Longbowmen centuries earlier.
This musket has been “sporterized,” meaning the barrel and walnut stock have been shortened, decreasing the length of pull. The reasons for modification are unknown.Firearm Type
RifleCollection
Thorndike Homestead - ObjectsAcquisition
Accession
1940.7Source or Donor
UnknownAcquisition Method
Found
