Sunday, April 11, 2010

Muskets


Back in 2006, I was contracted to repair a bunch of brown bess muskets for a local re-enactment group. Since these muskets would have been used in the TV show "sharp", I suggest you open a different window, and play this tune while you are clicking on and "embiggening" these cool pictures of the inner workings of the famous brown bess.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAbOFyP260U&feature=related



That would be Jock White, the RSM of the 48th highlanders.

The "action".
An instrumental version of Over the Hills and far away.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKkHKwEKSgg&NR=1


and this version of "over the hills and far away" is pretty stunning.
A little more upbeat than usual....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTnaD7VtzGo&feature=related


Above, we are drilling the touch holes out to 3/32nds. They came with a 1/16th hole, which fouled within three shots. Better now.

Why Bill doesn't wear white tee shirts. (got tired of being mistaken for the Michelin Man)

I'll leave you with this version from Switzerland's "Top Secret Drum Corps". Not their best, but a good introduction to the sport....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7k6VYGtm8g&feature=related






ip-location map zoom

5 comments:

Dr. Deb said...

They look like they are very intricate weapons. I wonder, are they heavy to hold? I've shot many different types of guns, but never a musket.

Great work!

STAG said...

They are pretty heavy Deb, and of course they are even more complex than a modern rifle. It was the shop that Eli Whitney built to make these kind of muskets that resulted in the creation of the modern assembly line.

Louis X said...

Ooh, they are beautiful! You are quite talented, Monsire Bill. :)

STAG said...

Did you check out the last link? The "top secret drum corps"? It will startle you!

Louis X said...

Yes, I did! This is not their best?! I should fall over to see the best! :D