Tanegashima: Guns of the Samurai

Published on May 8, 2024
Duration: 12:53

This guide details the firing technique for the Tanegashima matchlock, emphasizing the unique cheek-firing stance necessitated by samurai armor. It explains the matchlock mechanism involving a slow-burning fuse and a spring-loaded cock. The video highlights the historical significance and artisanal craftsmanship of these firearms, which remained in production for centuries in Japan.

Quick Summary

The Tanegashima is a Japanese smoothbore matchlock firearm, notable for its unique cheek-firing stance designed to accommodate samurai armor. Introduced in 1543, it remained Japan's standard firearm for three centuries due to isolation. Its mechanism involves a slow-burning match and a spring-loaded cock, with calibers often measured in 'monme' and military versions featuring heavy calibers for armor penetration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Tanegashima
  2. 02:14Firing Stance and Design
  3. 03:51Matchlock Mechanism Explained
  4. 06:09Artisanal Variations and Decoration
  5. 08:32Manufacturing Process
  6. 09:34Calibers and Measurement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Tanegashima matchlock?

The Tanegashima is a Japanese smoothbore matchlock firearm, introduced by Portuguese traders in 1543. It became the standard firearm in Japan for three centuries due to the country's isolation, and was known for its unique cheek-firing stance and artisanal craftsmanship.

How was the Tanegashima matchlock fired?

The Tanegashima was fired using a slow-burning match (fuse) to ignite priming powder. It featured a spring-loaded cocking mechanism and a distinctive buttstock designed for firing from the cheek, accommodating samurai armor.

What were the typical calibers of Tanegashima matchlocks?

Calibers were often measured in 'monme,' a unit of weight. While 50-caliber was common for sport, military versions frequently used heavier calibers, ranging from 70 to 80+ caliber (over an inch in diameter) for armor penetration.

Who were the craftsmen involved in making a Tanegashima?

The production of a Tanegashima involved three specialized craftsmen: a barrel maker who hammer-welded iron or steel strips, a lock maker, and a stock maker who typically used oak.

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →