War of the Austrian Succession - French and Indian War - American Revolution
NEW: Changes to lock so can now be fitted with a Standard Flash Guard
Now with a bridled (supported) frizzen
The early 18th century brought a flurry of developments in French musketry. A standardized model was finally established in 1717. However the abundance of Marine models, and Contract Fusil de Chasse in North America relegated the 1717 musket to a life in France's forces stationed in Europe. The 1717 was replaced eleven years in 1728 with a model using three barrel bands to hold its 46 3/4 inch barrel in place. This musket is a fine example of the elegant curves in musket stocks in the early 18th century. Note the special shape of the butt, commonly referred to as the "patte de vache" or cow's foot.
The 1728 musket was the musket carried by the majority of French troops during the French and Indian War (see images of the Compagnies Franche de la Marine and the Regiment de Bearn). Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743. By the French and Indian War it is highly unlikely wooden rammers were in use.
There were three arsenals making the 1728 models: Charleville, Maubeuge, and St. Etienne. St. Etienne was the largest producer and because of this the 1728 is often called the St. Etienne musket. It was St. Etienne that provided the bulk of the arms to the Navy for the Compagnies Franche de la Marine in the late 1740s. These arms most likely had the 1746 changes since they were acquired directly from the arsenal in 1748.
