This Swiss Infanteriegewehr Model 1817/42/59 began life as a smooth bore flintlock model 1817. In the 1840s Switzerland would upgrade and standardize its military arms with the percussion cap model 1842. Existing 1817s were converted into the new system. Not long after that the 1817/42s and 1842s were again converted to rifled barrels with the model 1859. Into the early 1860s the Swiss were using 1817/42/59, 1842/59, and 1859s at the same time. Most of these would go on to be converted yet again as Switzerland moved forward into the breech loading Milbank-Amsler system in the mid-1860s.

This musket was first made in Liege Belgium. Numerous Belgian gunsmiths and manufacturers built arms for Switzerland up to the late 1870s. The original maker name has worn off the side plate. This musket is marked with a “fasces in shield” crest for the canton of St. Gallen Switzerland.

The bore has been rifled. The caliber is 18mm (.70 cal) with a barrel length of 41 1/4 inches. Overall length is 57 3/4 inches.

The overall condition of this musket is very good. The finish on the stock is very rich and was probably refinished at least once in its journey. Wear is minimal but there are a few minor dings and scratches. There are no visible cracks or splits. There is one small wood worm hole (pin hole) in the butt stock and another on right side forend.

The barrel appears to be in the original polished steel. There is minor staining across the barrel. The barrel has two rear sights; a notch far rear and a flip up numbered in paces for the ‘59 conversion. The rifled bore shows minor fouling build up from the black powder. Minor pitting is also evident. However, rifling is distinct and the bore is cleaner than one would expect of a rifled musket of this vintage. The lock plate is good showing staining and wear. The nipple does show yellowing and the slightest hint of rust at its base but there is no active rust visible on any of the other metal. All other parts, screws, pins, etc appear present.

This musket has been tested for function and the lock, cock, and trigger work normally. This musket has NOT been test fired by us. This would make a beautiful addition to any collection especially the muzzle loader or military enthusiast. This musket is classified antique.

Swiss Cross in Shield – left rear barrel
Swiss Cross in Circle – top rear barrel
Fasces in Shield (St Gallen Switzerland) – top rear barrel
ST – front of flip up rear sight
2096 – top of rear barrel
LIEG – right side plate
Unclear Marks – right side plate
Crown over F – left side plate screw
H in Circle – front ram rod
Crown over V – rear and middle barrel band, rear trigger guard
Unclear Mark – front barrel band
S (Cartouche) – top rear butt stock
CstG (Cartouche for St Gallen) – right side butt stock