Third Model Bess

[anticus]

I recently acquired a circa 1809 Bess and wondered if anyone has good info on how to care for it. It wears its history well and is generally in good condition. The lock is almost as stiff as my knees but is solid and functions. The metal is smooth with very little external pitting. The bore is gnarly, mostly full of crud on the wall of the barrel. is there a good way to clean it up ? Given her age and the vagaries of early 19th century metallurgy, I doubt any attempt at shooting the piece, but as an artifact, wonderful !

 

[Clark Badgett]

How do you know it’s circa 1809?

 

[anticus]

Relying upon a description by the seller. It’s a first model by the shape of cock, so it could be earlier..and I did say “circa”

 

[Clark Badgett]

It is a pattern 1793 musket. Made up to 1809 when the cock was changed to the ringneck style.

 

[2 shots]

yes pre 1809 , post 09 had the reinforced cock. care for it as you would any other firearm.