Matchlocks
Matchlock
weapons,
though out of date
in design, were still widely available especially in backwater
colonial militias and in the more isolated areas as well as being
found in the arsenals of many small nations and Princelings. Many
matchlocks are found in the Spanish garrisons in the New World having
been shipped there as the armies in Spain were upgraded. They are
often issued to local militias and garrison troops. Matchlocks are
the cheapest firearm available.
Matchlock pistols are rarer then matchlock muskets. They are
clumsy and inconvenient to carry with the burning match.
Officers, even in units armed with matchlock muskets, generally have
more modern pistols. However they do exist and are still found on
occaission.
Matchlocks are still common in the far east and will turn up in
treasure taken along the Indian trade routes. Japan and China
produce high quality matchlock pistols and arquebus.
In Europe matchlock arquebus and the larger musket, are found in the
arsenals of cash strapped countries and in isolated fortresses where
the lielihood of a siege is remote. In the Caribbean they are
primarily found equipping Spanish Militias which are concerned with
controlling the native populations of the area.
European Matchlock Musket.
The matchlock musket was a heavy weapon, much longer then the arquebus,
and the shooter frequently used a rest to steady the weapon for
accurate shooting. Note the fish tail shaped butt.
This was intended to be used as a devastating club in close combat.
