Videos tagged with 18th Century Firearms

This video provides an expert-level demonstration of the unique breech-loading mechanism of the Ferguson Rifle, a rare flintlock from the American Revolutionary War. The host, demonstrating high authority and historical focus, shows the trigger guard rotation for quick reloading compared to muzzleloaders. The demonstration highlights the historical significance and innovative design of this 18th-century firearm.

This entry details the Kubura Pećanka, a flintlock pistol from the Peć region, influenced by the Ottoman Empire and used from the mid-18th century into WWI. Expert Jonathan Ferguson highlights its construction, including imported locks and barrels assembled with local stocks and brass furniture, noting its distinct Balkan decorative style and functional features like vertically grooved frizzens. Despite perceived 'crude' fit by Western standards, its longevity was due to cultural significance, affordability, and ease of maintenance.

This video segment from 'American Rifleman Television' focuses on the iconic French Charleville musket, a significant military longarm of the 18th and 19th centuries. Executive Editor Evan Brune details its history, noting its use in mid-18th century wars and the Napoleonic Wars, including the Battle of Waterloo. He clarifies that 'Charleville' refers to a class of muskets made at various French arsenals, not just the Charleville factory, and explains the name's sticking power due to its association with the American Revolution. The video encourages viewers to find full segments on americanrifleman.org/videos/artv.

This video features a presentation by Alex MacKenzie, Curator of the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, focusing on the Springfield Continental Arsenal prior to 1794. The lecture, presented at the American Society of Arms Collectors Spring 2025 meeting, delves into the history and firearms associated with this significant early American armory. Additional resources for firearms history enthusiasts, including books, merchandise, and streaming platforms, are also promoted.

This video explores the firearms used by both the British regulars and American militiamen during the retreat from Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. Leveraging archaeological evidence and extensive research, it provides a detailed look at the longarms involved in the running gunfight that earned the "Battle Road" its name. The segment is part of "American Rifleman Television" and highlights the historical context and weaponry of this pivotal event in American history.

This video provides an expert-level examination of an 18th-century self-rotating flintlock revolver by Thomas Annely, presented by Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms & Artillery. It details the unique automatic cylinder rotation mechanism, predating Colt's designs, and discusses its historical context and technical similarities to later revolvers. The presentation highlights the craftsmanship and rarity of this significant piece in firearms evolution.

This video explores the firearms used by the American Revolutionary Militia, debunking the myth of widespread rifle ownership. It highlights that the majority of militia members were armed with common smoothbore hunting flintlocks, specifically the French "fusil de chasse." The term "fusil de chasse" is explained as a French term for shotgun, still in use today. The video also references a book titled "The Jar of Severed Hands."

The French Model 1717 Rampart Musket, a .78 caliber smoothbore flintlock, was an obsolete French military firearm sold to the Americans during the Revolution. Weighing 10.5 lbs, it's heavier than standard muskets but not as large as a punt gun. These were acquired by the US by 1777 for use against the British.

This Royal Armouries lecture, "The Langar Odd Balls," explores how a peculiar lead ball discovered from the 18th and 19th centuries has significantly altered our understanding of bullet development during that era. The video delves into historical ballistics and material science, offering insights into the evolution of firearm projectiles. The Royal Armouries, the UK's national collection of arms and armour, presents this lecture as part of its educational content, encouraging viewers to engage with history and support the museum's preservation efforts.

This video demonstrates a 'Mad Minute' speed loading challenge with a smoothbore musket, successfully firing three shots within 60 seconds. It highlights historical loading techniques including biting the cartridge, priming the pan, and using the ramrod. The shooter, Karl Kasarda, exhibits expert-level proficiency in manual of arms and historical loading processes under time pressure.

This video explores the history and variety of firearms available prior to the Second Amendment, challenging the notion that only muskets were common. It highlights the existence of firearms with advanced features, such as 30-round magazines, indicating a more diverse and capable firearm landscape than often assumed.

This video from the Royal Armouries features Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms and Artillery, detailing the remarkable Mortimer flintlock repeating pistol. Dubbed an '18th century Winchester repeater,' this Lorenzoni repeater pistol showcases intricate craftsmanship and an innovative reloading mechanism. Ferguson explores its functionality and discusses who might have owned such an expensive status symbol. The Royal Armouries, the UK's national collection of arms and armour, invites viewers to discover more about historical weaponry and support their mission to bring history to life.