Pattern 1796 Heavy Dragoon Carbine

In addition to various types of swords the cavalry was armed with pistols and carbines. As with swords, 1796 saw the introduction of several new standard firearms.

Loading and firing these muzzle-loading weapons on horseback required considerable skill and the sword remained the most popular cavalry arm during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.

This carbine of 0.76 inch calibre was shorter than the infantry musket, which made it easier to use when mounted. It is fitted with a sling bar and ring enabling the cavalryman to wear the carbine while leaving both hands free. The carbine then hung butt down, to make loading easier. The weapons could be fitted with a bayonet for close quarter contact.