Here's a great, highly desirable Longland Pattern Brown Bess that was re-arsenaled during the 1770s and update to the more handy Shorland Pattern.
The Longland Pattern Brown Bess was the standard infantry arm of the British army from 1740 until roughly 1768, when it was determined that shortening the barrel from 46" down to 42" would make the gun lighter, point more naturally, and most importantly, wouldn't cause any loss of accuracy. This new "Shortland Pattern" Bess was adopted and had largely replaced the Longland by the time of the Revolution. However, as the need for muskets increased with the addition of more units deploying for North America, the crown began to look to its stores of Longland muskets to help arm the reinforcements. While some Longland pattern guns were issued "as-is" many were updated before being pressed into service. These updates included shortening the barrel to 42" as well as omission of one of the ram rod pipes so that the original the long trumpeted front ram rod pipe could be reinletted in its place. Further updates included the addition of a brass nose cap and iron ram rod.
This particular Brown Bess is a good example of an updated Longland pattern. It remains in good condition with a nice solid stock and attractive patina. The barrel has been shortened to 41.5", and the front ram rod pipe has been re-inletted (the original mortise for the omitted pipe can be seen under the front pipe, as can the original pin hole which was used to secure the pipe to the stock).
The lock is in good condition and works well with a solid half and full cock and a crisp frizzen spring. It should also be noted that the lock appears to be a period replacement as well. It is of the later Shortland style, with a straight lock plate and double bridle. Both of these features are not typically found on Longland guns, and it is likely that this musket received an updated lock as part of its arsenal refurbishment.
The barrel features good, legible proof marks at the breech and the bore is dark and uncleaned.
The furniture is all original and in good condition; including the ram rod which is full length.
