Matchlock musket

The first practical firearms were of the matchlock style. A burning piece of rope was plunged into the pan by pulling a trigger and thus igniting the weapon. They were introduced in the late 16th century and continued in use well into the 17th. Although the wheel lock and flintlock mechanisms were superior, the cheap to manufacture matchlock remained popular with conservative military planners. These weapons saw extensive use in the early years of settlement in North America as well as the European wars of the early to mid 1600’s. This model has a 42 inch barrel and is .75 calibre.