Original U.S. Revolutionary War Flintlock Infantry Musket Stamped F.F. Webster Made Using Dutch Lock and Barrel Marked B:411

Original Item: One-of-a-kind. During the early years of the British Colonies in America, there was little manufacturing capability available domestically, so items such as firearms, swords, and so forth were imported. Much came from England, but other European countries were also happy to supply the new and expanding market. During the French and Indian War, and even in the later American Revolutionary War, many of weapons used were of European manufacture.

This musket looks to have been locally made in the American Colonies, most likely using an early style Dutch lock and Barrel. There are many known examples of Dutch made muskets as well as Dutch-made parts being used during the American Revolution, as detailed in the book Battle Weapons of the American Revolution by George C. Neumann, on paged 107-113. We were not however able to find an exact match in the book, and the barrel and lock also bear a resemblance to some of the Germanic designs seen.

The musket has a 42 3/4" barrel with an approximately .79" bore, and measures 58 ¾ inches in overall length. The barrel is also two stage, octagonal near the breech, changing to round about 1/4 of the way towards the muzzle. The gun features a Dutch-style rounded "banana" shaped lock plate, and has a faceted flash pan with a guard on the rear, but no frizzen support bridle. There is also a single screw behind the cock, indicating an early sear design. The lock is not marked, however there is a design stamped onto the top of the barrel, next to what looks like a regimental number: B:411. There is also a symbol on the left side of the stock by the lock screw, under which is a small F.F. WEBSTER stamped in an arc. Definitely some interesting research potential here.

The musket is all brass mounted, and the barrel is held in by pins, not barrel bands, as often seen during this era of American muskets. The lock is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. The stock is lovely, though it unfortunately has suffered a good amount of damage and repairs during the 200+ years since it was actually in service. These can be seen on both side of the fore stock, and it even shows that it was cracked through completely around where the replacement wooden ramrod enters the stock.

Very attractive and would be welcome in any early American Collection! Ready research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1770 with earlier parts
Caliber: 0.79"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 42 3/4 inches
Overall Length: 58 inches
Action: Flintlock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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