Wikipedia - Benutzerbeiträge [de]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2010-11-20T19:25:13Z

Engineer comp geek: More minor variants

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image= [[File:Charleville 1866.jpg|300px]]
|caption= Musket Model 1766
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[Musket]]
|origin={{flag|Kingdom of France}}
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1840
|wars= [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69" (17.5mm) [[musket ball]]
|length= {{convert|60|in|cm}}
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= {{convert|10|lbs|kg}}
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= [[France]], [[United States]]
|variants=
|number= > 150,000 (Modèle 1766)
|production_date= 1717-1839
|design_date=1717
}}

[[Image:Charleville exploded view.jpg|300px|thumb||right|Charleville Musket, [[exploded view]].]]

The '''Charleville muskets''' were .69 caliber French muskets used in the 18th century.

== History ==

[[Marin le Bourgeoys]] created the first true [[flintlock]] weapons for King [[Louis XIII of France|Louis XIII]] shortly after his accession to the throne in 1610<ref>"Pistols: An Illustrated History of Their Impact" By Jeff Kinard, Published by ABC-CLIO, 2004</ref>. Throughout the 17th century, flintlock muskets were produced in a wide variety of models.

In 1717, a flintlock musket for the French infantry was standardized. This became the first standard flintlock to be issued to all infantry troops. While it is more correctly called a French infantry musket or a French pattern musket, these muskets later became known as "Charleville muskets", after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. The standard French infantry musket was also produced at Tulle, St. Etienne, Maubeuge Arsenal, and other sites. While technically not the correct name for these muskets, the use of the name Charleville dates back to the U.S. Revolutionary War, when Americans tended to refer to all of the musket models as Charlevilles. It should be noted that the naming of these muskets is not consistent. Some references only refer to Model 1763 and later versions as Charleville muskets, while other references refer to all models as Charlevilles.

The Charleville musket's design was refined several times during its service life. Later models of Charleville muskets remained in service until 1840, when [[caplock mechanism|percussion lock]] systems made the flintlock obsolete.<ref>"Napoleon: a biography" By Frank McLynn</ref>

== Design Features ==

Charleville muskets had a [[smooth bore]] barrel. Rifles were more accurate than smooth bore muskets, but Military commanders favored smooth bores on the battlefield, since the round from a rifle had to fit tightly into the barrel, and became very difficult to load after a few shots due to the fact that the black powder used at the time quickly fouled the barrel. The longer range and better accuracy of the rifle was also considered to be of little value on a battlefield that was quickly obscured by black powder smoke. Like all smooth bore muskets, the Charleville musket was only accurate to about 50 to 100 meters.

The Charleville's .69" (17.5mm) [[caliber]] barrel was slightly smaller than its main competitor, the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The smaller round was intentionally chosen to reduce weight in the field, but still had enough mass to be effective as a military round.

The Charleville's stock was usually made out of walnut.

Charleville muskets were not used in battle like a modern rifle. Instead, Charleville muskets were fired in mass formations. In modern warfare, bayonets are considered to be last ditch weapons, but in the days of the Charleville musket, they played a much more significant role on the battlefield, often accounting for roughly a third of all battlefield casualties. Muskets played a dual role on the battlefield, being used as a ranged weapon at a distance, and also being used as a pike type weapon in close hand to hand combat. This use as a pike dictated the Charleville's general length and weight. A shorter weapon could not be used as a pike, and its weight was a balance between being heavy enough to be used as a pike or club, but light enough to be carried and used by general infantrymen.

The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 3 shots per minute.

The Charleville's barrel was held into place by three barrel bands. This made the Charleville sturdier than the British Brown Bess musket, which used pins to hold the barrel in place. The butt of the Charleville's stock was sometimes referred to as the "patte de vache" (French for "cow's foot"), as its shape was designed to be used as a club in hand to hand combat.

Charleville muskets were muzzle loaded, and used a [[flintlock mechanism|flintlock]] firing mechanism. They typically fired a round ball, but could fire other ammunition such as buck and ball or shot.

== Variants ==

=== Model 1717 ===

After numerous musket designs in the late 17th and early 18th century, the infantry musket was standardized in what would become the Model 1717. This model standardized most of the design features that would be common to all subsequent models, such as a .69 caliber barrel, an approximate length of 60 inches and an approximate weight of nine to ten pounds. The Model 1717 also standardized the smooth bore barrel and flintlock firing mechanism.

Unlike later models, the Model 1717 had a pinned barrel, similar in design of the British Brown Bess. It also had a single barrel band at the center of the barrel, and four iron pipes which held a wooden ramrod. All of the furniture was iron.

The Model 1717 had a 46 inch barrel and an overall length of 62 inches, and weighed approximately 9 lbs.

A total of 48,000 Model 1717 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1728 ===

The Model 1728 replaced the pinned barrel with a barrel held in place by three barrel bands, which would become standard on all subsequent Charleville muskets. The barrel band design was not only easier to disassemble for cleaning, but was also sturdier, which was an important consideration in bayonet combat.

The lock was also revised, with a longer frizzen spring and a slightly modified cock design.

Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Other minor changes were also made throughout the Model 1728's production life. These modified versions are generally considered to be minor variations to the Model 1728, and are not typically considered to be a separate and distinct model of musket.

A total of 375,000 Model 1728 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1763 ===

After the French and Indian war, the French infantry musket was redesigned, resulting in the Model 1763.

The barrel was shortened from 46 inches to 44 inches, and the octagonal breech plug featured on earlier models was replaced with a more rounded design. The stock's distinctive "cow's foot" butt was modified with a much more straightened design. The ramrod was also given a more trumpet shaped end.

Though shorter in length, the Model 1763 was designed to be heavier and sturdier, and weighed over 10 lbs.

A total of 88,000 Model 1763 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1766 ===

The Model 1763's sturdier design proved to be a bit too heavy, so in 1766 the musket's design was lightened. The barrel wall was thinned, the lock was shortened, the stock was slimmed, and the Model 1763's long iron ramrod cover was replaced by a pinned spring under the breech. The trumpet shaped ramrod of the Model 1763 was also abandoned in favor of a ramrod with a lighter button shaped end.

Though usually considered to be a separate model, the Model 1766 was often referred to as a "light Model 1763" musket, especially in U.S. Revolutionary War invoices.<ref>"Don Troiani's soldiers in America, 1754-1865" By Don Troiani, Earl J. Coates, James L. Kochan</ref>

Despite being thinned down, the Model 1766 proved to be rugged and reliable.

A total of 140,000 Model 1766 muskets were produced.

=== Models 1770 to 1776 ===

Several changes were made to Charleville muskets during the 1770s. References are not consistent with respect to the naming of these models. Some consider many of them to be distinct models, while others consider them to be only variations of earlier models. Most of the modifications during this period were relatively minor.

The Model 1770 had a modified lock plate, stronger barrel bands, and a modified ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1771 moved the bayonet lug and strengthened the barrel. The Model 1770 and 1771 are often grouped together as a single model. The Model 1773 was similar to previous models, but again modified the ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1773 is often considered to be a minor variant to the Model 1770/1771. The Model 1774 had a shorter trigger guard, and the tail of the frizzen was cut square. The ramrod design was also modified in the Model 1774, giving it more of a pear shaped head.<ref>"Arms and Armor in Colonial America, 1526-1783" By Harold Leslie Peterson</ref> Similarly minor changes were made for the Model 1776, which is often not considered to be a separate model.

Throughout the 1770s, the stock was modified in an inconsistent fashion. Some muskets were produced with a much more pronounced comb on the stock than others, which have an almost nonexistent comb.

A total of 70,000 Model 1770 to 1776 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1777 ===

The design of the stock was again modified for the Model 1777, with a cheek rest cut into the inboard side of the butt. The Model 1777 also featured a slanted brass flash pan and bridle, and a modified trigger guard with two rear finger ridges.

The Model 1777 is often incorrectly believed to have been used in large numbers by American troops during the U.S. Revolutionary war. While the Model 1777 was used in the U.S. Revolutionary war, it was generally only used by French troops who served on American soil, such as those under the command of [[Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau|General Rochambeau]]. American troops were instead armed with earlier Model 1763 and 1766 muskets.

(See also [[Musket Model 1777]]).

=== Other variants ===

In 1754, the French introduced a shorter Officers version of the Charleville.

Most models were produced in shorter Dragoon (cavalry) versions, which were generally about ten inches shorter than their infantry counterpart. The Model 1763, 1766, and 1777 were all available in a cavalry version. These are also often called carbine versions.

The Model 1777 Artillery version had a 36 inch barrel and an overall length of 51 inches. The furniture was mostly brass.

The Model 1777 Dragoons version had a 42 inch barrel and an overall length of 57 inches. Most of the furniture was brass.

The Model 1777 Navy version was similar in length to the Dragoons version. All furniture on the Navy version was brass.

The Russian Model 1808 Musket was based heavily on the design of the Model 1777 Charleville. This musket is often called a "Tula musket" since it was manufactured in Tula. The Tula musket was manufactured with only minor changes until 1845, when it was replaced by a percussion lock musket.

Charleville muskets were also copied by Austria, Belgium, and Prussia.

In the 1830s and 1840s, many old Charleville muskets (mostly later models) were converted from flintlock to percussion lock.

== Use ==

Several models of Charleville muskets were used by the Canadian Militia from the early 18th century to the early 19th century.

Large numbers of Charleville Model 1763 and 1766 muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville 1766 heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

The Model 1766 and 1777 were also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the [[American Revolutionary War]].

The Model 1777 was used throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Modern replica Charleville muskets are produced by several manufacturers. These are used by historical re-enactors in both the U.S. and Europe.

==External links==
*http://www.11thpa.org/charleville.html
* [http://www.davide-pedersoli.com/default.aspx?item=ArmiCategoriaDettaglio&CategoriaId=220&lang=en 1766 Charleville] [[replica]] by [[Davide Pedersoli]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{start box}}
{{succession box | title=French Army rifle|
before= ??? | years=[[1717]]-[[1777]]| after=[[Musket Model 1777]]}}
{{end box}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Charleville Musket}}
[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[pl:Karabin wzór 1777/AN IX]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2010-11-20T19:04:58Z

Engineer comp geek: A few minor additions

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image= [[File:Charleville 1866.jpg|300px]]
|caption= Musket Model 1766
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[Musket]]
|origin={{flag|Kingdom of France}}
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1840
|wars= [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69" (17.5mm) [[musket ball]]
|length= {{convert|60|in|cm}}
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= {{convert|10|lbs|kg}}
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= [[France]], [[United States]]
|variants=
|number= > 150,000 (Modèle 1766)
|production_date= 1717-1839
|design_date=1717
}}

[[Image:Charleville exploded view.jpg|300px|thumb||right|Charleville Musket, [[exploded view]].]]

The '''Charleville muskets''' were .69 caliber French muskets used in the 18th century.

== History ==

[[Marin le Bourgeoys]] created the first true [[flintlock]] weapons for King [[Louis XIII of France|Louis XIII]] shortly after his accession to the throne in 1610<ref>"Pistols: An Illustrated History of Their Impact" By Jeff Kinard, Published by ABC-CLIO, 2004</ref>. Throughout the 17th century, flintlock muskets were produced in a wide variety of models.

In 1717, a flintlock musket for the French infantry was standardized. This became the first standard flintlock to be issued to all infantry troops. While it is more correctly called a French infantry musket or a French pattern musket, these muskets later became known as "Charleville muskets", after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. The standard French infantry musket was also produced at Tulle, St. Etienne, Maubeuge Arsenal, and other sites. While technically not the correct name for these muskets, the use of the name Charleville dates back to the U.S. Revolutionary War, when Americans tended to refer to all of the musket models as Charlevilles. It should be noted that the naming of these muskets is not consistent. Some references only refer to Model 1763 and later versions as Charleville muskets, while other references refer to all models as Charlevilles.

The Charleville musket's design was refined several times during its service life. Later models of Charleville muskets remained in service until 1840, when [[caplock mechanism|percussion lock]] systems made the flintlock obsolete.<ref>"Napoleon: a biography" By Frank McLynn</ref>

== Design Features ==

Charleville muskets had a [[smooth bore]] barrel. Rifles were more accurate than smooth bore muskets, but Military commanders favored smooth bores on the battlefield, since the round from a rifle had to fit tightly into the barrel, and became very difficult to load after a few shots due to the fact that the black powder used at the time quickly fouled the barrel. The longer range and better accuracy of the rifle was also considered to be of little value on a battlefield that was quickly obscured by black powder smoke. Like all smooth bore muskets, the Charleville musket was only accurate to about 50 to 100 meters.

The Charleville's .69" (17.5mm) [[caliber]] barrel was slightly smaller than its main competitor, the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The smaller round was intentionally chosen to reduce weight in the field, but still had enough mass to be effective as a military round.

The Charleville's stock was usually made out of walnut.

Charleville muskets were not used in battle like a modern rifle. Instead, Charleville muskets were fired in mass formations. In modern warfare, bayonets are considered to be last ditch weapons, but in the days of the Charleville musket, they played a much more significant role on the battlefield, often accounting for roughly a third of all battlefield casualties. Muskets played a dual role on the battlefield, being used as a ranged weapon at a distance, and also being used as a pike type weapon in close hand to hand combat. This use as a pike dictated the Charleville's general length and weight. A shorter weapon could not be used as a pike, and its weight was a balance between being heavy enough to be used as a pike or club, but light enough to be carried and used by general infantrymen.

The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 3 shots per minute.

The Charleville's barrel was held into place by three barrel bands. This made the Charleville sturdier than the British Brown Bess musket, which used pins to hold the barrel in place. The butt of the Charleville's stock was sometimes referred to as the "patte de vache" (French for "cow's foot"), as its shape was designed to be used as a club in hand to hand combat.

Charleville muskets were muzzle loaded, and used a [[flintlock mechanism|flintlock]] firing mechanism. They typically fired a round ball, but could fire other ammunition such as buck and ball or shot.

== Variants ==

=== Model 1717 ===

After numerous musket designs in the late 17th and early 18th century, the infantry musket was standardized in what would become the Model 1717. This model standardized most of the design features that would be common to all subsequent models, such as a .69 caliber barrel, an approximate length of 60 inches and an approximate weight of nine to ten pounds. The Model 1717 also standardized the smooth bore barrel and flintlock firing mechanism.

Unlike later models, the Model 1717 had a pinned barrel, similar in design of the British Brown Bess. It also had a single barrel band at the center of the barrel, and four iron pipes which held a wooden ramrod. All of the furniture was iron.

The Model 1717 had a 46 inch barrel and an overall length of 62 inches, and weighed approximately 9 lbs.

A total of 48,000 Model 1717 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1728 ===

The Model 1728 replaced the pinned barrel with a barrel held in place by three barrel bands, which would become standard on all subsequent Charleville muskets. The barrel band design was not only easier to disassemble for cleaning, but was also sturdier, which was an important consideration in bayonet combat.

The lock was also revised, with a longer frizzen spring and a slightly modified cock design.

Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Other minor changes were also made throughout the Model 1728's production life. These modified versions are generally considered to be minor variations to the Model 1728, and are not typically considered to be a separate and distinct model of musket.

A total of 375,000 Model 1728 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1763 ===

After the French and Indian war, the French infantry musket was redesigned, resulting in the Model 1763.

The barrel was shortened from 46 inches to 44 inches, and the octagonal breech plug featured on earlier models was replaced with a more rounded design. The stock's distinctive "cow's foot" butt was modified with a much more straightened design. The ramrod was also given a more trumpet shaped end.

Though shorter in length, the Model 1763 was designed to be heavier and sturdier, and weighed over 10 lbs.

A total of 88,000 Model 1763 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1766 ===

The Model 1763's sturdier design proved to be a bit too heavy, so in 1766 the musket's design was lightened. The barrel wall was thinned, the lock was shortened, the stock was slimmed, and the Model 1763's long iron ramrod cover was replaced by a pinned spring under the breech. The trumpet shaped ramrod of the Model 1763 was also abandoned in favor of a ramrod with a lighter button shaped end.

Though usually considered to be a separate model, the Model 1766 was often referred to as a "light Model 1763" musket, especially in U.S. Revolutionary War invoices.<ref>"Don Troiani's soldiers in America, 1754-1865" By Don Troiani, Earl J. Coates, James L. Kochan</ref>

Despite being thinned down, the Model 1766 proved to be rugged and reliable.

A total of 140,000 Model 1766 muskets were produced.

=== Models 1770 to 1776 ===

Several changes were made to Charleville muskets during the 1770s. References are not consistent with respect to the naming of these models. Some consider many of them to be distinct models, while others consider them to be only variations of earlier models. Most of the modifications during this period were relatively minor.

The Model 1770 had a modified lock plate, stronger barrel bands, and a modified ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1771 moved the bayonet lug and strengthened the barrel. The Model 1770 and 1771 are often grouped together as a single model. The Model 1773 was similar to previous models, but again modified the ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1773 is often considered to be a minor variant to the Model 1770/1771. The Model 1774 had a shorter trigger guard, and the tail of the frizzen was cut square. The ramrod design was also modified in the Model 1774, giving it more of a pear shaped head.<ref>"Arms and Armor in Colonial America, 1526-1783" By Harold Leslie Peterson</ref> Similarly minor changes were made for the Model 1776, which is often not considered to be a separate model.

Throughout the 1770s, the stock was modified in an inconsistent fashion. Some muskets were produced with a much more pronounced comb on the stock than others, which have an almost nonexistent comb.

A total of 70,000 Model 1770 to 1776 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1777 ===

The design of the stock was again modified for the Model 1777, with a cheek rest cut into the inboard side of the butt. The Model 1777 also featured a slanted brass flash pan and bridle, and a modified trigger guard with two rear finger ridges.

The Model 1777 is often incorrectly believed to have been used in large numbers by American troops during the U.S. Revolutionary war. While the Model 1777 was used in the U.S. Revolutionary war, it was generally only used by French troops who served on American soil, such as those under the command of [[Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau|General Rochambeau]]. American troops were instead armed with earlier Model 1763 and 1766 muskets.

(See also [[Musket Model 1777]]).

=== Other variants ===

In 1754, the French introduced a shorter Officers version of the Charleville.

Most models were produced in shorter Dragoon (cavalry) versions, which were generally about ten inches shorter than their infantry counterpart. The Model 1763, 1766, and 1777 were all available in a cavalry version. These are also often called carbine versions.

The Model 1777 Artillery version had a 36 inch barrel and an overall length of 51 inches. The furniture was mostly brass.

The Model 1777 Dragoons version had a 42 inch barrel and an overall length of 57 inches. Most of the furniture was brass.

The Model 1777 Navy version was similar in length to the Dragoons version. All furniture on the Navy version was brass.

== Use ==

Several models of Charleville muskets were used by the Canadian Militia from the early 18th century to the early 19th century.

Large numbers of Charleville Model 1763 and 1766 muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville 1766 heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

The Model 1766 and 1777 were also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the [[American Revolutionary War]].

The Model 1777 was used throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Modern replica Charleville muskets are produced by several manufacturers. These are used by historical re-enactors in both the U.S. and Europe.

==External links==
*http://www.11thpa.org/charleville.html
* [http://www.davide-pedersoli.com/default.aspx?item=ArmiCategoriaDettaglio&CategoriaId=220&lang=en 1766 Charleville] [[replica]] by [[Davide Pedersoli]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{start box}}
{{succession box | title=French Army rifle|
before= ??? | years=[[1717]]-[[1777]]| after=[[Musket Model 1777]]}}
{{end box}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Charleville Musket}}
[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[pl:Karabin wzór 1777/AN IX]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2010-11-20T06:04:32Z

Engineer comp geek: Added link, fixed typo, cleaned up use section a bit

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image= [[File:Charleville 1866.jpg|300px]]
|caption= Musket Model 1766
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[Musket]]
|origin={{flag|Kingdom of France}}
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1840
|wars= [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69" (17.5mm) [[musket ball]]
|length= {{convert|60|in|cm}}
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= {{convert|10|lbs|kg}}
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= [[France]], [[United States]]
|variants=
|number= > 150,000 (Modèle 1766)
|production_date= 1717-1839
|design_date=1717
}}

[[Image:Charleville exploded view.jpg|300px|thumb||right|Charleville Musket, [[exploded view]].]]

The '''Charleville muskets''' were .69 caliber French muskets used in the 18th century.

== History ==

[[Marin le Bourgeoys]] created the first true [[flintlock]] weapons for King [[Louis XIII of France|Louis XIII]] shortly after his accession to the throne in 1610<ref>"Pistols: An Illustrated History of Their Impact" By Jeff Kinard, Published by ABC-CLIO, 2004</ref>. Throughout the 17th century, flintlock muskets were produced in a wide variety of models.

In 1717, a flintlock musket for the French infantry was standardized. While it is more correctly called a French infantry musket, these muskets later became known as "Charleville muskets", after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. The standard French infantry musket was also produced at Tulle, St. Etienne, Maubeuge Arsenal, and other sites.

The Charleville musket's design was refined several times during its service life. Later models of Charleville muskets remained in service until 1840, when [[caplock mechanism|percussion lock]] systems made the flintlock obsolete.<ref>"Napoleon: a biography" By Frank McLynn</ref>

== Design Features ==

Charleville muskets had a [[smooth bore]] barrel. Rifles were more accurate than smooth bore muskets, but Military commanders favored smooth bores on the battlefield, since the round from a rifle had to fit tightly into the barrel, and became very difficult to load after a few shots due to the fact that the black powder used at the time quickly fouled the barrel. The longer range and better accuracy of the rifle was also considered to be of little value on a battlefield that was quickly obscured by black powder smoke. Like all smooth bore muskets, the Charleville musket was only accurate to about 50 to 100 meters.

The Charleville's .69" (17.5mm) [[caliber]] barrel was slightly smaller than its main competitor, the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The smaller round was intentionally chosen to reduce weight in the field, but still had enough mass to be effective as a military round.

The Charleville's stock was usually made out of walnut.

Charleville muskets were not used in battle like a modern rifle. Instead, Charleville muskets were fired in mass formations. In modern warfare, bayonets are considered to be last ditch weapons, but in the days of the Charleville musket, they played a much more significant role on the battlefield, often accounting for roughly a third of all battlefield casualties. Muskets played a dual role on the battlefield, being used as a ranged weapon at a distance, and also being used as a pike type weapon in close hand to hand combat. This use as a pike dictated the Charleville's general length and weight. A shorter weapon could not be used as a pike, and its weight was a balance between being heavy enough to be used as a pike or club, but light enough to be carried and used by general infantrymen.

The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 3 shots per minute.

The Charleville's barrel was held into place by three barrel bands. This made the Charleville sturdier than the British Brown Bess musket, which used pins to hold the barrel in place. The butt of the Charleville's stock was sometimes referred to as the "patte de vache" (French for "cow's foot"), as its shape was designed to be used as a club in hand to hand combat.

Charleville muskets were muzzle loaded, and used a [[flintlock mechanism|flintlock]] firing mechanism. They typically fired a round ball, but could fire other ammunition such as buck and ball or shot.

== Variants ==

=== Model 1717 ===

After numerous musket designs in the late 17th and early 18th century, the infantry musket was standardized in what would become the Model 1717. This model standardized most of the design features that would be common to all subsequent models, such as a .69 caliber barrel, an approximate length of 60 inches and an approximate weight of nine to ten pounds. The Model 1717 also standardized the smooth bore barrel and flintlock firing mechanism.

Unlike later models, the Model 1717 had a pinned barrel, similar in design of the British Brown Bess. It also had a single barrel band at the center of the barrel, and four iron pipes which held a wooden ramrod. All of the furniture was iron.

The Model 1717 had a 46 inch barrel and an overall length of 62 inches, and weighed approximately 9 lbs.

A total of 48,000 Model 1717 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1728 ===

The Model 1728 replaced the pinned barrel with a barrel held in place by three barrel bands, which would become standard on all subsequent Charleville muskets. The barrel band design was not only easier to disassemble for cleaning, but was also sturdier, which was an important consideration in bayonet combat.

The lock was also revised, with a longer frizzen spring and a slightly modified cock design.

Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Other minor changes were also made throughout the Model 1728's production life. These modified versions are generally considered to be minor variations to the Model 1728, and are not typically considered to be a separate and distinct model of musket.

A total of 375,000 Model 1728 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1763 ===

After the French and Indian war, the French infantry musket was redesigned, resulting in the Model 1763.

The barrel was shortened from 46 inches to 44 inches, and the octagonal breech plug featured on earlier models was replaced with a more rounded design. The stock's distinctive "cow's foot" butt was modified with a much more straightened design. The ramrod was also given a more trumpet shaped end.

Though shorter in length, the Model 1763 was designed to be heavier and sturdier, and weighed over 10 lbs.

A total of 88,000 Model 1763 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1766 ===

The Model 1763's sturdier design proved to be a bit too heavy, so in 1766 the musket's design was lightened. The barrel wall was thinned, the lock was shortened, the stock was slimmed, and the Model 1763's long iron ramrod cover was replaced by a pinned spring under the breech. The trumpet shaped ramrod of the Model 1763 was also abandoned in favor of a ramrod with a lighter button shaped end.

Though usually considered to be a separate model, the Model 1766 was often referred to as a "light Model 1763" musket, especially in U.S. Revolutionary War invoices.<ref>"Don Troiani's soldiers in America, 1754-1865" By Don Troiani, Earl J. Coates, James L. Kochan</ref>

Despite being thinned down, the Model 1766 proved to be rugged and reliable.

A total of 140,000 Model 1766 muskets were produced.

=== Models 1770 to 1776 ===

Several changes were made to Charleville muskets during the 1770s. References are not consistent with respect to the naming of these models. Some consider many of them to be distinct models, while others consider them to be only variations of earlier models. Most of the modifications during this period were relatively minor.

The Model 1770 had a modified lock plate, stronger barrel bands, and a modified ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1771 moved the bayonet lug and strengthened the barrel. The Model 1770 and 1771 are often grouped together as a single model. The Model 1773 was similar to previous models, but again modified the ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1773 is often considered to be a minor variant to the Model 1770/1771. The Model 1774 had a shorter trigger guard, and the tail of the frizzen was cut square. The ramrod design was also modified in the Model 1774, giving it more of a pear shaped head.<ref>"Arms and Armor in Colonial America, 1526-1783" By Harold Leslie Peterson</ref> Similarly minor changes were made for the Model 1776, which is often not considered to be a separate model.

Throughout the 1770s, the stock was modified in an inconsistent fashion. Some muskets were produced with a much more pronounced comb on the stock than others, which have an almost nonexistent comb.

A total of 70,000 Model 1770 to 1776 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1777 ===

The design of the stock was again modified for the Model 1777, with a cheek rest cut into the inboard side of the butt. The Model 1777 also featured a slanted brass flash pan and bridle, and a modified trigger guard with two rear finger ridges.

The Model 1777 is often incorrectly believed to have been used in large numbers by American troops during the U.S. Revolutionary war. While the Model 1777 was used in the U.S. Revolutionary war, it was generally only used by French troops who served on American soil, such as those under the command of [[Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau|General Rochambeau]]. American troops were instead armed with earlier Model 1763 and 1766 muskets.

(See also [[Musket Model 1777]]).

=== Other variants ===

The Model 1777 Artillery version had a 36 inch barrel and an overall length of 51 inches. The furniture was mostly brass.

The Model 1777 Dragoons version had a 42 inch barrel and an overall length of 57 inches. Most of the furniture was brass.

The Model 1777 Navy version was similar in length to the Dragoons version. All furniture on the Navy version was brass.

== Use ==

The Charleville musket was used by the Canadian Militia from the early 18th century to the early 19th century.

Large numbers of Charleville Model 1763 and 1766 muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville 1766 heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

The Model 1766 and 1777 were also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the [[American Revolutionary War]].

The Model 1777 was used throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Modern replica Charleville muskets are produced by several manufacturers. These are used by historical re-enactors in both the U.S. and Europe.

==External links==
*http://www.11thpa.org/charleville.html
* [http://www.davide-pedersoli.com/default.aspx?item=ArmiCategoriaDettaglio&CategoriaId=220&lang=en 1766 Charleville] [[replica]] by [[Davide Pedersoli]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{start box}}
{{succession box | title=French Army rifle|
before= ??? | years=[[1717]]-[[1777]]| after=[[Musket Model 1777]]}}
{{end box}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Charleville Musket}}
[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[pl:Karabin wzór 1777/AN IX]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2010-11-20T05:42:31Z

Engineer comp geek: Added detail about different models (still needs more detail about other variants)

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image= [[File:Charleville 1866.jpg|300px]]
|caption= Musket Model 1766
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[Musket]]
|origin={{flag|Kingdom of France}}
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1840
|wars= [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69" (17.5mm) [[musket ball]]
|length= {{convert|60|in|cm}}
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= {{convert|10|lbs|kg}}
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= [[France]], [[United States]]
|variants=
|number= > 150,000 (Modèle 1766)
|production_date= 1717-1839
|design_date=1717
}}

[[Image:Charleville exploded view.jpg|300px|thumb||right|Charleville Musket, [[exploded view]].]]

The '''Charleville muskets''' were .69 caliber French muskets used in the 18th century.

== History ==

[[Marin le Bourgeoys]] created the first true [[flintlock]] weapons for King [[Louis XIII of France|Louis XIII]] shortly after his accession to the throne in 1610<ref>"Pistols: An Illustrated History of Their Impact" By Jeff Kinard, Published by ABC-CLIO, 2004</ref>. Throughout the 17th century, flintlock muskets were produced in a wide variety of models.

In 1717, a flintlock musket for the French infantry was standardized. While it is more correctly called a French infantry musket, these muskets later became known as "Charleville muskets", after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. The standard French infantry musket was also produced at Tulle, St. Etienne, Maubeuge Arsenal, and other sites.

The Charleville musket's design was refined several times during its service life. Later models of Charleville muskets remained in service until 1840, when [[caplock mechanism|percussion lock]] systems made the flintlock obsolete.<ref>"Napoleon: a biography" By Frank McLynn</ref>

== Design Features ==

Charleville muskets had a [[smooth bore]] barrel. Rifles were more accurate than smooth bore muskets, but Military commanders favored smooth bores on the battlefield, since the round from a rifle had to fit tightly into the barrel, and became very difficult to load after a few shots due to the fact that the black powder used at the time quickly fouled the barrel. The longer range and better accuracy of the rifle was also considered to be of little value on a battlefield that was quickly obscured by black powder smoke. Like all smooth bore muskets, the Charleville musket was only accurate to about 50 to 100 meters.

The Charleville's .69" (17.5mm) [[caliber]] barrel was slightly smaller than its main competitor, the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The smaller round was intentionally chosen to reduce weight in the field, but still had enough mass to be effective as a military round.

The Charleville's stock was usually made out of walnut.

Charleville muskets were not used in battle like a modern rifle. Instead, Charleville muskets were fired in mass formations. In modern warfare, bayonets are considered to be last ditch weapons, but in the days of the Charleville musket, they played a much more significant role on the battlefield, often accounting for roughly a third of all battlefield casualties. Muskets played a dual role on the battlefield, being used as a ranged weapon at a distance, and also being used as a pike type weapon in close hand to hand combat. This use as a pike dictated the Charleville's general length and weight. A shorter weapon could not be used as a pike, and its weight was a balance between being heavy enough to be used as a pike or club, but light enough to be carried and used by general infantrymen.

The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 3 shots per minute.

The Charleville's barrel was held into place by three barrel bands. This made the Charleville sturdier than the British Brown Bess musket, which used pins to hold the barrel in place. The butt of the Charleville's stock was sometimes referred to as the "patte de vache" (French for "cow's foot"), as its shape was designed to be used as a club in hand to hand combat.

Charleville muskets were muzzle loaded, and used a [[flintlock mechanism|flintlock]] firing mechanism. They typically fired a round ball, but could fire other ammunition such as buck and ball or shot.

== Variants ==

=== Model 1717 ===

After numerous musket designs in the late 17th and early 18th century, the infantry musket was standardized in what would become the Model 1717. This model standardized most of the design features that would be common to all subsequent models, such as a .69 caliber barrel, an approximate length of 60 inches and an approximate weight of nine to ten pounds. The Model 1717 also standardized the smooth bore barrel and flintlock firing mechanism.

Unlike later models, the Model 1717 had a pinned barrel, similar in design of the British Brown Bess. It also had a single barrel band at the center of the barrel, and four iron pipes which held a wooden ramrod. All of the furniture was iron.

The Model 1717 had a 46 inch barrel and an overall length of 62 inches, and weighed approximately 9 lbs.

A total of 48,000 Model 1717 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1728 ===

The Model 1728 replaced the pinned barrel with a barrel held in place by three barrel bands, which would become standard on all subsequent Charleville muskets. The barrel band design was not only easier to disassemble for cleaning, but was also sturdier, which was an important consideration in bayonet combat.

The lock was also revised, with a longer frizzen spring and a slightly modified cock design.

Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Other minor changes were also made throughout the Model 1728's production life. These modified versions are generally considered to be minor variations to the Model 1728, and are not typically considered to be a separate and distinct model of musket.

A total of 375,000 Model 1728 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1763 ===

After the French and Indian war, the French infantry musket was redesigned, resulting in the Model 1763.

The barrel was shortened from 46 inches to 44 inches, and the octagonal breech plug featured on earlier models was replaced with a more rounded design. The stock's distinctive "cow's foot" butt was modified with a much more straightened design. The ramrod was also given a more trumpet shaped end.

Though shorter in length, the Model 1763 was designed to be heavier and sturdier, and weighed over 10 lbs.

A total of 88,000 Model 1763 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1766 ===

The Model 1763's sturdier design proved to be a bit too heavy, so in 1766 the musket's design was lightened. The barrel wall was thinned, the lock was shortened, the stock was slimmed, and the Model 1763's long iron ramrod cover was replaced by a pinned spring under the breech. The trumpet shaped ramrod of the Model 1763 was also abandoned in favor of a ramrod with a lighter button shaped end.

Though usually considered to be a separate model, the Model 1766 was often referred to as a "light Model 1763" musket, especially in U.S. Revolutionary War invoices.<ref>"Don Troiani's soldiers in America, 1754-1865" By Don Troiani, Earl J. Coates, James L. Kochan</ref>

Despite being thinned down, the Model 1766 proved to be rugged and reliable.

A total of 140,000 Model 1766 muskets were produced.

=== Models 1770 to 1776 ===

Several changes were made to Charleville muskets during the 1770s. References are not consistent with respect to the naming of these models. Some consider many of them to be distinct models, while others consider them to be only variations of earlier models. Most of the modifications during this period were relatively minor.

The Model 1770 had a modified lock plate, stronger barrel bands, and a modified ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1771 moved the bayonet lug and strengthened the barrel. The Model 1770 and 1771 are often grouped together as a single model. The Model 1773 was similar to previous models, but again modified the ramrod retaining spring. The Model 1773 is often considered to be a minor variant to the Model 1770/1771. The Model 1774 had a shorter trigger guard, and the tail of the frizzen was cut square. The ramrod design was also modified in the Model 1774, giving it more of a pear shaped head.<ref>"Arms and Armor in Colonial America, 1526-1783" By Harold Leslie Peterson</ref> Similarly minor changes were made for the Model 1776, which is often not considered to be a separate model.

Throughout the 1770s, the stock was modified in an inconsistent fashion. Some muskets were produced with a much more pronounced comb on the stock than others, which have an almost nonexistent comb.

A total of 70,000 Model 1770 to 1776 muskets were produced.

=== Model 1777 ===

The design of the stock was again modified for the Model 1777, with a cheek rest cut into the inboard side of the butt. The Model 1777 also featured a slanted brass flash pan and bridle, and a modified trigger guard with two rear finger ridges.

The Model 1777 is often incorrectly believed to have been used in large numbers by American troops during the U.S. Revolutionary war. While the Model 1777 was used in the U.S. Revolutionary war, it was generally only used by French troops who served on American soil, such as those under the command of General Rochambeau. American troops were instead armed with earlier Model 1763 and 1766 muskets.

(See also [[Musket Model 1777]]).

=== Other varients ===

The Model 1777 Artillery version had a 36 inch barrel and an overall length of 51 inches. The furniture was mostly brass.

The Model 1777 Dragoons version had a 42 inch barrel and an overall length of 57 inches. Most of the furniture was brass.

The Model 1777 Navy version was similar in length to the Dragoons version. All furniture on the Navy version was brass.

== Use ==

The Charleville musket was used by the Canadian Militia from the early 18th century to the early 19th century.

The Model 1766 was also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the [[American Revolutionary War]].

Large numbers of Charleville Model 1766 muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville 1766 heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

The Model 1777 was used throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Modern replica Charleville muskets are produced by several manufacturers. These are used by historical re-enactors in both the U.S. and Europe.

==External links==
*http://www.11thpa.org/charleville.html
* [http://www.davide-pedersoli.com/default.aspx?item=ArmiCategoriaDettaglio&CategoriaId=220&lang=en 1766 Charleville] [[replica]] by [[Davide Pedersoli]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{start box}}
{{succession box | title=French Army rifle|
before= ??? | years=[[1717]]-[[1777]]| after=[[Musket Model 1777]]}}
{{end box}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Charleville Musket}}
[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[pl:Karabin wzór 1777/AN IX]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2010-11-15T16:46:33Z

Engineer comp geek: reorganized article, added info, converted French "modele" to English Model

Benutzer:D1rkW4ll/Jezail

2010-09-09T07:40:48Z

Engineer comp geek: Removed fragment accidentally left by previous edit

[[File:Jezail.jpg|thumb|200px|Jezail musket]]The '''Jezail''' (Sometimes ''Jezzail'' from the [[Pashto language]]) was a simple, cost-efficient and often hand-made muzzle-loading long arm commonly used in [[India]], Central Asia and a handful of Middle Eastern lands of the time.

==Features==

Jezails were generally hand made weapons, and consequently they varied quite a bit in their construction. Jezails were seen as very personal weapons, and unlike the typical military weapons of the time which were very plain and utilitarian, jezails tended to be very well crafted and were usually very beautifully and artistically decorated.

Jezails tended to have very long barrels. These sorts of long weapons were never common in Europe, and only were otherwise seen in American rifles like the [[Kentucky Rifle]]. The American rifles were used for hunting, and tended to be of a smaller caliber(.35 to .45 or so being typical). Jezails were usually designed for military use, and therefore tended to be of larger calibers than the American rifles, with .50 to .75 caliber and larger being common. Larger calibers were possible because the long length of the typical jezail meant that it was heavier than typical muskets of the time. Jezails typically weighed around 12 to 14 pounds, compared to 9 to 10 pounds for a typical musket. The heavy weight of the jezail allowed it to absorb more force from the round, imparting less recoil to the weapon's user.

Many jezails were smooth bore weapons, but some had their barrels rifled. The rifling, combined with the barrel's long length, made these weapons very accurate for their time. The long barrel made reloading easier from horseback, as the butt stock would rest upon the ground while the muzzle would be at eye level.

The firing mechanism was typically either a [[matchlock]] or a [[flintlock]]. Since flintlock mechanisms were complex and difficult to manufacture, many jezails used the lock mechanism from stolen or broken [[Brown Bess]] muskets.

The stocks were hand made and were very ornately decorated. Jezail stocks also featured a very distinctive curve which is not seen in the stocks of other muskets. The exact function of this curve is debated. Some say that it is purely decorative in nature. Others say that the curve of the stock allowed it to be tucked under the arm and cradled tightly against the body, as opposed to being held to the shoulder like a typical musket or rifle. The argument against this method of firing is that the flash pan would be dangerously close to the face and the weapon would be harder to aim. It is more likely that the rifle was only tucked under the arm of the rider whilst riding horse or camel.

Jezails were often fired from a forked rest, or a horn or metal bi-pod.

==The Jezail in the Anglo-Afghan Wars==

During this period the jezail was the primary ranged weapon of Afghan warriors and was used with great effect against British troops. British Brown Bess smoothbore muskets were effective at only 150 yards and accurate at 50 yards. Because of their advantage in range, Afghan rebels typically used the jezail from the tops of cliffs along valleys and [[defile (geography)|defile]]s during ambushes. This tactic repeatedly devastated the British during their doomed retreat from [[Kabul]] to [[Jalalabad]].

In the [[First Anglo-Afghan War]] the British established a [[cantonment]] outside of Kabul with dirt walls approximately waist high. Surrounding the cantonment were several abandoned forts which, although out of range of British muskets, were close enough for jezail fire. When [[ghazi]] and other Afghan forces besieged Kabul and the cantonment, they occupied the forts and used them to snipe British forces from a safe range.

==The Jezail in British Literature==

The jezail is most famous, at least in Western literature, as the weapon which wounded [[Dr. Watson]]—the fictional biographer of the fictional detective [[Sherlock Holmes]]—in the [[Battle of Maiwand]] during his military service in Afghanistan. In [[A Study in Scarlet]] Watson mentions being wounded in the shoulder.<ref>Doyle, Arthur Conan. A Study in Scarlet, 1887</ref> However, in [[The Sign of the Four]] Watson gives the location of the wound as in his leg.<ref>Doyle, Arthur Conan. The Sign of the Four, 1890</ref> This discrepancy has caused much debate by Sherlock Holmes fans about which of these locations is the "correct" location of the wound.

The jezail is mentioned repeatedly in some of Wilbur Smith's books, most notably "Monsoon".

The jezail weapon was also mentioned in the [[George MacDonald Fraser]] adventure ''[[Flashman (novel)|Flashman]]'', whose protagonist describes the awful slaughter of British Army troops retreating from [[Kabul]] to [[Jalalabad]] by Afghan jezailchis.

It is used as a metaphor of a cheap weapon in [[Rudyard Kipling]]'s poetry describing British casualties in colonial wars:
:''A scrimmage in a Border Station''
:''A canter down some dark defile''
:''Two thousand pounds of education''
:''Drops to a ten-rupee jezail.''

==Contemporary Use==
The Jezail no longer sees widespread use in warfare of any nature.
Limited numbers were, however, used by Afghan Militia during the [[Soviet War in Afghanistan]].
Derivatives of the Jezail, barely recognizable, and usually termed 'country-made weapons', are in use in rural India.

==References==
{{reflist}}
** Tanner, Stephen, (2002) ''Afghanistan: A Military History From Alexander the Great to the Fall of the Taliban'', Da Capo Press, ISBN 0-306-81233-9
** "Firearms of the Islamic world in the Tareq Rajab Museum, Kuwait" By Robert Elgood

[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]
[[Category:Weapons of Afghanistan]]

Benutzer:D1rkW4ll/Jezail

2010-09-09T07:39:34Z

Engineer comp geek: Added a bit more detail to some sections

[[File:Jezail.jpg|thumb|200px|Jezail musket]]The '''Jezail''' (Sometimes ''Jezzail'' from the [[Pashto language]]) was a simple, cost-efficient and often hand-made muzzle-loading long arm commonly used in [[India]], Central Asia and a handful of Middle Eastern lands of the time.

is a [[matchlock]] or [[flintlock]] [[musket]] , usually from the [[Indian Subcontinent]] and [[Afghanistan]].

==Features==

Jezails were generally hand made weapons, and consequently they varied quite a bit in their construction. Jezails were seen as very personal weapons, and unlike the typical military weapons of the time which were very plain and utilitarian, jezails tended to be very well crafted and were usually very beautifully and artistically decorated.

Jezails tended to have very long barrels. These sorts of long weapons were never common in Europe, and only were otherwise seen in American rifles like the [[Kentucky Rifle]]. The American rifles were used for hunting, and tended to be of a smaller caliber(.35 to .45 or so being typical). Jezails were usually designed for military use, and therefore tended to be of larger calibers than the American rifles, with .50 to .75 caliber and larger being common. Larger calibers were possible because the long length of the typical jezail meant that it was heavier than typical muskets of the time. Jezails typically weighed around 12 to 14 pounds, compared to 9 to 10 pounds for a typical musket. The heavy weight of the jezail allowed it to absorb more force from the round, imparting less recoil to the weapon's user.

Many jezails were smooth bore weapons, but some had their barrels rifled. The rifling, combined with the barrel's long length, made these weapons very accurate for their time. The long barrel made reloading easier from horseback, as the butt stock would rest upon the ground while the muzzle would be at eye level.

The firing mechanism was typically either a matchlock or a flintlock. Since flintlock mechanisms were complex and difficult to manufacture, many jezails used the lock mechanism from stolen or broken [[Brown Bess]] muskets.

The stocks were hand made and were very ornately decorated. Jezail stocks also featured a very distinctive curve which is not seen in the stocks of other muskets. The exact function of this curve is debated. Some say that it is purely decorative in nature. Others say that the curve of the stock allowed it to be tucked under the arm and cradled tightly against the body, as opposed to being held to the shoulder like a typical musket or rifle. The argument against this method of firing is that the flash pan would be dangerously close to the face and the weapon would be harder to aim. It is more likely that the rifle was only tucked under the arm of the rider whilst riding horse or camel.

Jezails were often fired from a forked rest, or a horn or metal bi-pod.

==The Jezail in the Anglo-Afghan Wars==

During this period the jezail was the primary ranged weapon of Afghan warriors and was used with great effect against British troops. British Brown Bess smoothbore muskets were effective at only 150 yards and accurate at 50 yards. Because of their advantage in range, Afghan rebels typically used the jezail from the tops of cliffs along valleys and [[defile (geography)|defile]]s during ambushes. This tactic repeatedly devastated the British during their doomed retreat from [[Kabul]] to [[Jalalabad]].

In the [[First Anglo-Afghan War]] the British established a [[cantonment]] outside of Kabul with dirt walls approximately waist high. Surrounding the cantonment were several abandoned forts which, although out of range of British muskets, were close enough for jezail fire. When [[ghazi]] and other Afghan forces besieged Kabul and the cantonment, they occupied the forts and used them to snipe British forces from a safe range.

==The Jezail in British Literature==

The jezail is most famous, at least in Western literature, as the weapon which wounded [[Dr. Watson]]—the fictional biographer of the fictional detective [[Sherlock Holmes]]—in the [[Battle of Maiwand]] during his military service in Afghanistan. In [[A Study in Scarlet]] Watson mentions being wounded in the shoulder.<ref>Doyle, Arthur Conan. A Study in Scarlet, 1887</ref> However, in [[The Sign of the Four]] Watson gives the location of the wound as in his leg.<ref>Doyle, Arthur Conan. The Sign of the Four, 1890</ref> This discrepancy has caused much debate by Sherlock Holmes fans about which of these locations is the "correct" location of the wound.

The jezail is mentioned repeatedly in some of Wilbur Smith's books, most notably "Monsoon".

The jezail weapon was also mentioned in the [[George MacDonald Fraser]] adventure ''[[Flashman (novel)|Flashman]]'', whose protagonist describes the awful slaughter of British Army troops retreating from [[Kabul]] to [[Jalalabad]] by Afghan jezailchis.

It is used as a metaphor of a cheap weapon in [[Rudyard Kipling]]'s poetry describing British casualties in colonial wars:
:''A scrimmage in a Border Station''
:''A canter down some dark defile''
:''Two thousand pounds of education''
:''Drops to a ten-rupee jezail.''

==Contemporary Use==
The Jezail no longer sees widespread use in warfare of any nature.
Limited numbers were, however, used by Afghan Militia during the [[Soviet War in Afghanistan]].
Derivatives of the Jezail, barely recognizable, and usually termed 'country-made weapons', are in use in rural India.

==References==
{{reflist}}
** Tanner, Stephen, (2002) ''Afghanistan: A Military History From Alexander the Great to the Fall of the Taliban'', Da Capo Press, ISBN 0-306-81233-9
** "Firearms of the Islamic world in the Tareq Rajab Museum, Kuwait" By Robert Elgood

[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]
[[Category:Weapons of Afghanistan]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2009-03-11T21:07:22Z

Engineer comp geek: Added musket and flintlock to the see also section

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image=[[Image:Musket_charleville.jpg|300px]]
|caption=Charleville Musket
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[Musket]]
|origin= [[France]]
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1816
|wars= [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]], [[Napoleonic Wars]], [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69 [[musket ball]]
|length= 60 inches
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= 10 lbs.
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= France, United States
|variants=
|number=
|production_date= 1717-?
|design_date=1717
}}

[[Image:Charleville_exploded_view.jpg|300px|thumb||right|Charleville Musket, [[exploded view]].]]

The '''Charleville musket''' was a .69 caliber French musket used in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Charleville musket was named after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. A standardized version of the musket was first created in 1717. The 1717 was replaced eleven years later in 1728 with a model using three barrel bands to hold its 46 3/4 inch barrel in place. Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Further refinements were made in the 1750's and 1760's.

In 1763 a new model was produced which was stronger than the previous version. The Model 1763 proved to be too heavy, and was replaced by a lighter version in 1766. Minor refinements continued until 1777.

The Charleville musket had a .69 caliber barrel, which was smaller than the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 2-3 shots per minute. Smooth bore muskets in general have an accuracy of only about 50 to 100 meters, and hitting anything beyond 200 meters is mostly a matter of luck. Because of this, combat tended to be at fairly close range, and bayonet fighting often determined the outcome of battles. In general, bayonets accounted for 30 to 40 percent of casualties during battles with smooth bore muskets like the Charleville.

The Charleville musket was used by the Canadian Militia from the early 1700s to the early 1800s. It was also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the American Revolutionary War and throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Large numbers of Charleville muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville musket heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

==See also==
*[[Musket]]
*[[Flintlock]]
*[[List of individual weapons of the U.S. Armed Forces]]
* List of infantry weapons and equipment of the Canadian Military

==External links==

*[http://www.militaryheritage.com/loading1777frenchmusket.htm Loading and Firing a French Musket in the Age of Napoleon]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th-century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2009-01-29T20:27:41Z

Engineer comp geek: Added pictures

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image=[[Image:Musket_charleville.jpg|300px]]
|caption=Charleville Musket
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[musket]]
|origin= [[France]]
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1816
|wars= [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]], [[Napoleonic Wars]], [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69 [[musket ball]]
|length= 60 inches
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= 10 lbs.
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= United States
|variants=
|number=
|production_date= 1717-?
|design_date=1717
}}

[[Image:Charleville_exploded_view.jpg|300px|thumb||right|Charleville Musket, exploded view]]

The '''Charleville musket''' was a .69 caliber French musket used in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Charleville musket was named after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. A standardized version of the musket was first created in 1717. The 1717 was replaced eleven years later in 1728 with a model using three barrel bands to hold its 46 3/4 inch barrel in place. Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Further refinements were made in the 1750's and 1760's.

In 1763 a new model was produced which was stronger than the previous version. The Model 1763 proved to be too heavy, and was replaced by a lighter version in 1766. Minor refinements continued until 1777.

The Charleville musket had a .69 caliber barrel, which was smaller than the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 2-3 shots per minute. Smooth bore muskets in general have an accuracy of only about 50 to 100 meters, and hitting anything beyond 200 meters is mostly a matter of luck. Because of this, combat tended to be at fairly close range, and bayonet fighting often determined the outcome of battles. In general, bayonets accounted for 30 to 40 percent of casualties during battles with smooth bore muskets like the Charleville.

The Charleville musket was used by the Canadian Militia from the early 1700s to the early 1800s. It was also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the American Revolutionary War and throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Large numbers of Charleville muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville musket heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

==See also==
*[[List of individual weapons of the U.S. Armed Forces]]
* List of infantry weapons and equipment of the Canadian Military

==External links==

*[http://www.militaryheritage.com/loading1777frenchmusket.htm Loading and Firing a French Musket in the Age of Napoleon]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Early firearms]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]

Benutzer:Kristian Lindahl/Charleville-Gewehr

2009-01-27T20:38:00Z

Engineer comp geek: Expanded article, detailed various models, removed inaccurate information

{{Infobox Weapon|is_ranged=yes|
|image=
|caption=
|name= Charleville musket
|type= [[musket]]
|origin= [[France]]
|era=
|platform= Individual
|Target= Personnel
|service= 1717-1816
|wars= [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]], [[Napoleonic Wars]], [[French and Indian War]], [[American Revolution]], [[War of 1812]]
|caliber= .69 [[musket ball]]
|length= 60 inches
|action= [[flintlock]]
|part_length=
|range= 100 to 200 yards max 50 to 75 effective
|feed= [[Muzzleloader|muzzle-loaded]]
|rate= 2-3 round/min
|weight= 10 lbs.
|muzzle velocity= 1000 to 1200 feet per second
|spec_type= muzzle loader
|used_by= United States
|variants=
|number=
|production_date= 1717-?
|design_date=1717
}}

The '''Charleville musket''' was a .69 caliber French musket used in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Charleville musket was named after the armory in [[Charleville-Mézières]], [[Ardennes (department)|Ardennes]], France. A standardized version of the musket was first created in 1717. The 1717 was replaced eleven years later in 1728 with a model using three barrel bands to hold its 46 3/4 inch barrel in place. Changes in the 1740s included the standardized use of a steel ramrod in 1743 and, after 1746, newly manufactured muskets had the pan/frizzen bridle removed. Further refinements were made in the 1750's and 1760's.

In 1763 a new model was produced which was stronger than the previous version. The Model 1763 proved to be too heavy, and was replaced by a lighter version in 1766. Minor refinements continued until 1777.

The Charleville musket had a .69 caliber barrel, which was smaller than the .75 caliber [[Brown Bess]] produced by the British. The rate of fire depended on the skill of the soldier, which was typically about 2-3 shots per minute. Smooth bore muskets in general have an accuracy of only about 50 to 100 meters, and hitting anything beyond 200 meters is mostly a matter of luck. Because of this, combat tended to be at fairly close range, and bayonet fighting often determined the outcome of battles. In general, bayonets accounted for 30 to 40 percent of casualties during battles with smooth bore muskets like the Charleville.

The Charleville musket was used by the Canadian Militia from the early 1700s to the early 1800s. It was also used by the [[France|French]] during their participation in the American Revolutionary War and throughout the [[French Revolutionary Wars|French Revolutionary]] and [[Napoleonic Wars]].

Large numbers of Charleville muskets were imported into the United States from France during the [[American Revolution]], due in large part to the influence of Marquis de Lafayette.<ref>"Small Arms", the Encyclopedia American, 1920</ref> The Charleville musket heavily influenced the design of the [[Model 1795 Musket|Springfield Musket of 1795]].

==See also==
*[[List of individual weapons of the U.S. Armed Forces]]
* List of infantry weapons and equipment of the Canadian Military

==External links==

*[http://www.militaryheritage.com/loading1777frenchmusket.htm Loading and Firing a French Musket in the Age of Napoleon]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Muskets]]
[[Category:Early firearms]]
[[Category:Weapons of France]]
[[Category:18th century weapons]]

[[fr:Fusil Charleville]]
[[it:Moschetto Charleville]]
[[sh:Musketa Charleville]]