The "Snapping Matchlock" was Europe's first attempt at what might be considered a "modern firearm" by today's standards.
That is to say, these crude muskets were the first guns that could be fired at the push of a trigger (or button), rather than
having to be lit by a separate lever or "linstock" held separately in the shooter's other hand. These guns featured spring
loaded serpentines that could be locked into a "cocked" position; ready to fire the musket with the simple twitch of the
shooters finger, without ever having to remove oneself from the weapons sights. This allowed for more accurate
shooting and the beginning of the concept of "marksmanship" as we know it today.
This particular piece is brand new and entirely custom built by medieval weapons expert Steve Krolick. Steve hand made
every single component of this musket including the .55 caliber smoothbore barrel. Steve copied this piece from surviving
examples made in what is now present day Germany and France.
The stock is walnut. and is nicely shaped and finished with linseed oil; just like the original guns from the period.
The barrel is excellent with no rust or pitting, and features a small brass bead from sight to aid in aiming.
The lock was completely made from scratch by Steve. It is set up to accept Jim Chambers' "Large Siler" percussion lock parts.
This was done so that replacement parts could be easily obtained, should the weapon be damaged from use. The lock is
operated by pulling the serpentine to full cock and installing a piece of lit slow match its jaws. The lock is fired using the
button mounted on the bottom of the stock.
This unique musket is sure to turn heads at any firing range, reenactment or imperialistic conquest!
