Here is the quintessential Revolutionary War musket: the 1766 "Charleville" The model 1766 bares a lot of similarities with its predecessor; the model 1763. However only three years after introducing the model 1763, the French Board of Ordnance made a number of changes to the design including lightening the musket, reducing the size of the lock, and utilizing the button-head ramrod design.
When the Continental army desperately needed arms in its fight for Independence, the French government sent thousands of M1766 muskets to the colonies; hoping that backing the colonists against the crown would give them a leg up against their imperial rivals; the British.
As a result, the M1766 became so commonplace among the ranks of the American Army, that when U.S. began to mass manufacture its own army muskets, they produced an exact copy of the 1766 Charleville; the 1795 Springfield.
This particular m1766 is in great condition.
The lock is all original and the cock holds solid on both full and half cock. The frizzen spring has great tension against the frizzen. The lock markings are crisp and legible with the famous script stamp "Charleville" on full display.
The stock is very good with no damage and a set of initials carved in the butt stock. Perhaps they belong to a Colonial Rebel? We'll let the musket's new owner decide for himself.
Both swivels are intact and original; a rare feature for most M1766's, whose wire swivels often are lost or damaged.
The barrel is full length with an even brown patina that matches the rest of the musket. The bore is dark and uncleaned; having sat on display for centuries.
This rare weapon is an absolute requirement for any American arms collector; and its superb condition will make for an excellent display among your other artifacts.
