Jun 14, 2022
Though Manchu Bannermen were well known for their archery and love of the bow, they made use of matchlock muskets from the beginning of their reign. Lately, I’ve been doing a bit of research into Manchu Gunnery. This image from a French Book about the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-95. The musket this Bannerman is aiming appears to be a percussion cap type. Though the details are a bit difficult to make out. The Qing did have but snap lock matchlocks and percussion cap type muskets, but by and large stuck with the 17th century style simple level serpentine lock. Note the pre-measured loads in the bandolier at his waist and the powder flask the hangs from a strap at his back. He would have also had a primer flask.