[twines]

Hi Thomas,

That is indeed the Belgian Government mark. This is nothing out of the ordinary, as the Belgian Government used older Dutch Muskets that were left behind after the Belgian Revolution against the Dutch. Which makes it rather ‘weird’ is indeed the fact that it was transformed to percussion system after it received the Belgian acceptance mark (starting from 1830), but in the matter exactly like the Dutch Government started doing in the 1840’s.

If it is a M1815 type 2, the construction can’t be after 1820 because at this date their production was cancelled. 1838 is however too early for transformation to percussion the way it is present.

The stripe marks on the barrel, including the arrow, are simply inspector’s marks, to keep internal order in which parts were inspected and in what stage. The ‘British broad arrow’ is thus not really a British Broad arrow.

The letters found above the chamber on the barrel or on the different metal parts are the initials of the Inspectors to proof that the different parts were found acceptable for use.

The letters on the wood are typical Belgian marking for acceptance of wooden stocks.


The musket is most likely a mix of different pieces brought together in a later stage, by an arms dealer or restorer

Kind regards,


Arthur Van Rossem

Diensthoofd a.i. Vuurwapens / Chef de Service a.i. Armes à feu