Brown Bess 3rd Model

Go Back to Musket

	Weapon: Brown Bess 3rd Model Type: Musket Country of Origin: United Kingdom Year Adopted: 1797 Caliber: 75 Caliber Action: Flint-Lock Overall Length (mm): 1390.0 Overall Length (in): 54.72 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82 Effective Range (m): 100 m Effective Range (yards): 109.36

The Brown Bess 3rd Model, also known as the "India Pattern" musket, was a British flintlock smoothbore musket developed in the late 18th century. The Brown Bess family of muskets had been in service since the early 1700s, and the 3rd Model was a simplified, more cost-effective version of earlier models. It was chambered for a .75 caliber round ball and had a reputation for being rugged and reliable, despite its relatively inaccurate smoothbore barrel.

Adopted by the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars, the Brown Bess 3rd Model became the standard infantry weapon for British soldiers throughout the early 19th century. It was used in key battles, including the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, and saw widespread use in British colonies around the world. Its relatively simple design and sturdy construction allowed for mass production and easy maintenance.

Although it was eventually phased out in favor of rifled muskets, the Brown Bess 3rd Model holds a significant place in military history. It symbolized British military power during the height of the British Empire, and its role in shaping the outcome of many conflicts in Europe and beyond is undeniable.