Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a lovely example of a Swiss Model 1842 (M.1842) percussion musket, which we believe was made as a percussion musket and not converted from a flintlock. It is in very nice shape, and unlike almost all of these on the market, was not later rifled or breech loading converted, making this a fairly rare example! We believe that it was probably imported into the United States in the late 1850's, most likely by the Confederate States for use against the Yankees in the Civil War. Many obsolete European percussion arms were imported by the Confederacy, and as the Swiss 1842 was in .69" caliber, it would have worked well with old musket balls from the U.S. Model 1816 Muskets.

Unlike previous examples we have had, this example was not made in Switzerland, and is clearly marked on the barrel with A. FRANCOTTE / LIEGE, for Auguste Francotte & Co. of Liège. Belgium. This was a very well-known and prolific firearms manufacturer, who made many guns under contract to countries all over the world. They also made some improved versions of existing guns, such as the Martini-Henry. Founded in 1810, the company was still in operation until the WWII era.

Additionally, the end of the barrel bears the E / L G / * in an oval Liège proof, and the lock plate is marked with a CROWN / AF marking, also for Francotte. There is even a faint CROWN / AF cartouche on the right butt stock, and many of the fittings bear this marking as well! The musket also has serial number 72 on the top side of the barrel, with the same number stamped into the left side of the stock. Definitely some fantastic markings on this example!

We checked the lock, and it is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. The bore is clear, but definitely shows fouling and oxidation from lack of cleaning. The stock has a lovely dark honey color, with some staining around the iron mountings, which are quite reminiscent of the French design, which is most likely what the Swiss and Belgians patterned these off of. Both sling swivels are present, easily moveable, and there is the correct "trumpet" style cleaning rod under the barrel. Of interest is that the middle barrel band is steel, while the lower band and nose cap are brass. All are marked for Francotte, so this is correct.

An excellent example of a Swiss M1842 Percussion Musket, made in Belgium by the famous August Francotte. Ready to research and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: c. 1845-50
Caliber: about .69 inches
Ammunition Type:  Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Barrel Length: 32 ½ inches
Overall Length: 47 inches
Action: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.