British Enfeild Musket

By: Brian 8-2

Cheesified by Brian Matesic
· Popularity
· Distinguishing Features
· General Condition
· Civil War Usage
· Firing System
· Bibliography

Popularity

These .577 caliber muskets were "popular on both sides of the Civil War" (Davis 19). Most Union regiments were armed with these, and "Confederate authorities had 120,000 of these put to use in the war" (Davis 20). They were probably in the hands of the most important men of the Civil War. These guns were just a little outdated though, as the Springfield Company had invented the modern cartridge firing musket. Before these were invented, the Enfeild was probably superior to any other firearm, as they were so consistent and densely used. It was also probably the most important part of the war since it was the main factor in each battle.

Distiguishing Features

Some distinguishing features of this musket when it was first made, were the "blued steel barrels and bands, brass butt plate and trigger guard, as well as beautiful wood stock" (C&C Sutlery) as seen in the picture.

General Condition

The artifact seemed to have not been taken very good care of and very old, as the wood stock is in poor condition, the barrel is rusted, there are also minor scrapes and scratches in miscellaneous places all over it (Artifact viewed at Early American Museum).

Civil War Usage

The men using these were either fighting on the ground or in the Calvary (on horses). These men had to be trained to fire these muskets. They could usually fire about two or three times per minute, which is really fast as it takes a while to load these guns.

Firing System

The way these fired were by the percussion system. Gunpowder is poured down the barrel, followed by the steel bullet. "A copper cap is then placed on the nipple and the hammer struck down onto it, sending a spark into the gunpowder chamber" (Davis 16).

Thanks

Thank you must go out to Mr. Peterson, for taking us on all the field trips, and to Trevor at the Early American Museum for all his help and patience as we viewed the artifacts.

Bibliography

· "C&C Sutlery: Weapons" http://www.ccsutlery.com/weapons.htm
· Davis, William C. "Weapons of the Civil War." Mallard Press. 1991.
· Early American Museum. Mahomet, Illinois.
· http://www.fg-a.com/flags1.htm -PICS