Prussian Muskets: Numbers on the Unwanted Arms

[JimConley]

I was at the Mansfield Civil War Show last weekend and came across a display of strictly Prussian Muskets, mostly Model 1809s if I recall correctly. After taking a quick glance, I was just about to move down the line of tables when the gentleman behind the display handed me a little write-up about Prussian Muskets in the Civil War. It was written by David Noe, co-author of Firearms From Europe: A History of Firearms Imported During The American Civil War By The United States and Confederate States of America.

I found this quick little piece to be pretty interesting. Even if they were considered sub-par weapons, it's good to learn about the presence they did have in the war.

I have scanned the booklet and created a pdf document for those of you interested in reading it.

[fahtz]

I knew I was friends with you for something... I miss the dickens out of you... Thanks man!

[LibertyHallVols]

Jim,

Cool stuff! Thanks for sharing!!

Regarding the "Potsdam" as a so-called "inferior" arm: There are several N-SSA folks that compete with them and like them quite a bit. What's great about them is that they can still be had relatively cheap. Only a couple years ago, a friend had one for sale for $600, bayonet included. When I asked if it was OK to fire live, he said, "Yeah... I loaded it up with some buckshot and shot at some crows this morning."

It was a peach! I still regret not picking it up.

[ktulu983]

many thanks! During a LH at Manassas this past January I had the good fortune of handling one of these weapons. Quite a piece!

Bob Martin
CVG Co A

[plankholder]

Great find Jim...