Revolutionary War rifle ?

First time post. I have been working on a U.S. Military rifle collection and have worked my way back from an early M-16 slick-side to the civil war era . Wondering what to look for concerning revolutionary war period. Charleville, Brown Bess, other ? Will be going replica not original due to cost, availability, shootability. One fellow I talked to said early on many of the citizen- soldiers brought what ever they had at home. Many farmers with only one firearm. Smoothbore for shot, buck or ball. Any ideas much appreciated. Thanks

The Brown Bess would be a good start...yes, Repros are available too.

The "Brown Bess" of the 1776-84 period was the Short Land Pattern with 42" barrel. In US terminology "second model Brown Bess".

Good Afternoon. As an owner of a 1768 Charleville that I shoot, there is nothing like firing a weapon, at very reduced powder charge, that has been in the Revolutionary War. Yes, you will have to pay for it but at just about 3-4 times a Pedersoli repro, it might be worth the splurge.

I am right now looking for the British antagonist of the Charleville. Right now I am looking at between $4000 and $8,000 for one of those. Of course condition, markings, and a good story behind the musket wil determing the final cost.

You also must consider the wear to your wepon, especially the lock, will be quicker than normal and will require much TLC to take care of it. Again, the thrill of firing, at a very reduced load, a weapon that might have been at Yorktown is amazing. Good luck and let us know if you take the plunge. Randy

Thanks for the thoughts on going with an original. Other than cost I was also concerned with possibly damaging a historic firearm while figuring out making my first flintlock work . Also, I am left handed, have fired right handed percussion rifle without any problems, will a right hand flintlock work, I always wear eye prot. Have seen left handed flintlocks advertised. Thanks.

Lots more fire and smoke just in front of your face as a leftie using a flint for ignition! I don't mind shooting percussion lock firearms from the left side but shoot RH flintlocks right handed. Which isn't good for my accuracy if it's a rifle.


I also shoot original examples on occasion. The reproductions just don't hold my interest.