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Ferguson flintlock breech-loading rifle, 1780 circa (metal)
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Ferguson flintlock breech-loading rifle, 1780 circa (metal)
5920152 Ferguson flintlock breech-loading rifle, 1780 circa (metal) by British School, (18th Century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Ferguson flintlock breech-loading rifle, 1780 circa.
Designed by Captain Patrick Ferguson (1744-1780), the Ferguson rifle was the first effective breech-loader used by the British Army. It was more accurate, easier to load and had a greater effective range than the muzzle-loading Brown Bess musket. However, the rifles were expensive to produce and considered fragile.
During the American War of Independence (1775-1783) Ferguson commanded a detachment of men armed with these weapons drawn from the light companies of the 6th and 14th Regiments of Foot. After FergusonAs death in the Battle of KingAs Mountain, South Carolina, in 1780, breech-loading firearms were not re-introduced into British service until the middle of the nineteenth century. Only a handful of these rifles exist today, making it one of the rarest weapons in the Museums collection.); eNational Army Museum; British, out of copyright
Media ID 22764594
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Ferguson flintlock breech-loading rifle, a groundbreaking weapon from the 18th century. Designed by Captain Patrick Ferguson, this rifle was a game-changer for the British Army during its time. With enhanced accuracy, easier loading mechanisms, and an extended effective range compared to traditional muskets like the Brown Bess, it offered significant advantages on the battlefield. However, despite its remarkable features, these rifles were considered fragile and expensive to produce. Only a limited number of them exist today, making them highly sought after by collectors and historians alike. This particular print is housed in the National Army Museum in London. The significance of this firearm extends beyond its technical innovations; it played a crucial role during the American War of Independence. Ferguson commanded a detachment armed with these rifles drawn from select regiments' light companies. Tragically, he lost his life at the Battle of King's Mountain in South Carolina in 1780. After his death, breech-loading firearms were not reintroduced into British service until many decades later in the mid-19th century. Thus, this rare artifact stands as a testament to both Captain Patrick Ferguson's ingenuity and his untimely demise on the battlefield. With its historical importance and scarcity within museum collections worldwide, this print offers viewers an opportunity to appreciate one of history's most exceptional weapons – forever frozen in time through artistry and preservation efforts.
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