US Model of 1842 Musket (A Photo Study in Several Parts)

[jmoore]

Lock and associated elements:


#4a



#4b Two shots of the same area shown differently to accentuate different details.


#4c


#4d) The old method of transferring power from the mainspring to the tumbler. The later US designs, i.e. the M1855 rifled musket and newer, utilize a stirrup which reduces friction and wear. Probably improved the hammer speed as well, but the mainspring force was reduced due to the newfound efficiency. (Easier to operate and probably reduced breakage as well.)