Through controlled live-fire studies we can better understand how flintlock and percussion firearms function. With a large collection of varied custom-built reproduction arms, we can test a lot of theories and ideas. Although there are many variables, we can record and analyze velocity based upon powder loads, bullet size, and metal detect each of our fired shots to study the deformation and markings on the balls.

These studies are important to the interpretation of fired ammunition on conflict archaeology sites. They can also inform historians and collectors of how these arms were carried and used in battle. This is a constantly evolving process as new technologies come into play and we’re always testing new tools and equipment to gather data, and we continue to gather data through experimental archaeology.