American Revolution How to Load and Fire a Musket

Paul Ackerman, a professional reenactor, shares his knowledge on loading and firing a flintlock musket, detailing the 10 steps involved. He explains the practice required to achieve a firing rate of four shots per minute and discusses the typical accuracy and range during battles.

What are the first two steps in loading a flintlock musket?

Describe the process of preparing the cartridge for loading.

What is the significance of the command 'full cock' in the firing process?

How often could soldiers practice loading and firing the musket?

What was the approximate accuracy range for hitting a man-sized target?