Matchlocks in action at Australian M/L Championships

[ChrisPer]

These Japanese type snap-matchlock pistols shot very good scores in the Australian Nationals.

Some camera club members came and took photos which got the firelocks between sparks and discharge. Photos by David Sargeant -

I grabbed this photo on my phone of a matchlock in the racks. I am told that a moderate number of these were built by the maker - maybe a dozen?.

I am also told that Geoff Price, formerly on the MLAGB national team, picked up one of these matchlock muskets the first time he saw it, and with it broke 23 clays in the muzzleloading shotgun competition.

 

[cynthialee]

you are really making me want a matchlock

I have been thinking that it makes sense to have one. But I wonder about that string hanging off of it. It would make more sense to have some small rings down the stock that keeps the string from dangeling and geting in my way.

 

[Matt85]

you are really making me want a matchlock

I have been thinking that it makes sense to have one. But I wonder about that string hanging off of it. It would make more sense to have some small rings down the stock that keeps the string from dangeling and geting in my way.

if you can find one for a decent price, the miroku japanese snapping matchlock had an interesting provision to manage the cord. i almost landed one on gunrboker a little while back but someone decided they wanted it way more then me.

-matt

 

[ChrisPer]

The dangling string does need to be managed. The matchlock users at the range keep the match separated from the gun during loading, with the buring end inside a perforated can at the other end of the bay, on a table to the rear, or on the deck. Once loaded primed, cocked, pan cover closed and pointing downrange they bring out and fit the burning match.

They are lightning fast; the locktime is undetectable, unlike my flint pistol.

 

[buzz]

I hav always wanted a matchlock but was worryed of hot :barf: match cord when loading could be dangerouse

 

[buzz]

I hav always wanted a matchlock but was worryed of hot :barf: match cord when loading could be dangerouse

 

[ChrisPer]

I hav always wanted a matchlock but was worryed of hot :barf: match cord when loading could be dangerouse

Keep the match separate while loading, and load pre-measured charges instead of keeping a horn or open tub of powder (and no mat filled with spilled powder) - it should be quite safe if you handle it carefully.