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Historical reproductions

1809 Potzdam Infantry Musket

A reproduction of the Prussian infantry pattern, with Potzdam arsenal markings and a trumpet-style ramrod.

Supplied in a non-firing state.

Technical details Specifications & construction

 Like other infantry muskets, the 1809 Potzdam musket has a straighten frizzen cover over the brass pan. The .75 calibre barrel is 41 1/2 inches long and the musket's total length is 57 inches. The lock plate has the Potzdam arsenal markings, along with the appropriate stampings on the breech.  Borrowed from the Prussians, the trumpet style ramrod was standard for the French Army after 1777. 

As the photographs attest, this replica is quite well assembled with a case hardened frizzen cover (hammer) producing good sparks. The seamless tempered barrels are made of gun steel (type:BS970 no.080M40- auto industry foundry) and the breeches are tight. We use a industrial case-hardening factory process that makes sparking both more reliable and longer lasting. Presently no other musket provider uses this technique.

As with all our other flintlocks, the vent is not drilled (read details below) so we can ship easily to your door throughout North America and to Europe and the UK. Aside from that they are exactly like the originals. A fine addition to any collection.

The story behind the pattern

History

-  Napoleonic Wars   -   Waterloo  -   American Civil War

Prussian 1809 Pattern Musket. Inspired by the French Imperial Guard's musket, this pattern was the standard infantry firearm when Prussian Army campaigned against Napoleon culminating in Blucher's timely arrival at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.   Other German states quickly adopted it.  

Desperate for arms at the opening of the American Civil War, the Union Army purchased at least 165,000 units for this musket, both flintlock and converted-to percussion cap versions.  Confederate forces also acquired this firearm from the Prussians.  Because of the large calibre ball it fired, soldiers in the war nicknamed it the "pumpkin slinger".

1809-potsdam-musket-union-soldiers-civil-war

This model is unique for its brass barrel bands, reinforced hammer, all brass frizzen (pan) and built-in flash guard.   Another unique element was the muzzle sight in the barrel band, and the spring bayonet catch; marking the beginning of the end of the bayonet lug in military firearms technology.  The square comb of the butt offered enhanced durably but with a cheek cut for improved aiming.  The trumpet-shaped rammer head also for increased strength as opposed to the button-headed ramrods.   Everything about this musket is about German durability and it is no wonder thousands were still available to the Union Army for purchase.

Prussian Infantry at the Battle of Waterloo, 1815
Prussian Infantry at the Battle of Waterloo, 1815

(photo over exposed- engraving is quite pronounced)

Our Guarantee

If upon receiving your musket you are not completely happy with your purchase, you may return it for a refund. All we ask is you cover the shipping costs. It has to be returned in two weeks of receipt and be in its original state (unaltered and unmodified).

Non-Firing State

We sell historically accurate muskets and pistols in a non-firing state for demonstration purposes. This allows us to comply with various local, state, national and international firearms regulations, along with shipping company policy restrictions. This means the product comes right to your doorstep. A certified gunsmith may decide to alter a musket or pistol to a firing state by drilling the vent hole and test firing it. No need to remove the breech plug. We are not legally responsible for any changes from its present state. Please read our Conditions of Use and Legal Disclaimer. The customer is expected to be aware of the laws of their locality that govern products of this nature.