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Until Tudor times, the long bow was the most common projectile weapon used by European armies but it took a lifetime of practice to become a proficient archer. In the 17th century it soon became evident that with the latest muskets and a few days training, groups of ordinary infantry soldiers could be almost as effective.
 

In a real battle, muskets are loaded with black (gun) powder and a lead ball which is fired at the enemy when the powder is ignited. There were two types of musket used in the Civil Wars.
 

Matchlock, the simpler and most common type, use a burning length of cord to ignite the powder.

 

Flintlock have a spring-loaded flint to make a spark.

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They form blocks which attack at about 25 metres firing volleys with both matchlock or flintlock muskets. Both types of are slow to load so musketeers fire volleys by individual ranks in turn. When they close with the enemy they will reverse their unloaded muskets and use them as clubs in a melee. 

Unloaded musketeers are very vulnerable to attack by enemy cavalry so we manoeuvre with blocks of friendly pikemen for protection. During the 17th century the ratio of musketeers to pikemen gradually increased as tactics 

improved but it was not until the 18th century that the use of bayonets became widespread and effectively combined the roles of pike and musket.

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Using a musket, and fighting hand-to hand, on the battle field is equally suitable for men and women. It is great fun and can be spectacular. 
One of the best things about being a musketeer – apart from the fun - is the interest we get from members of the public at any muster. A couple of volleys of musket fire always gets the attention of our audience and sparks lots of questions and discussions with them after the battle. 

Musket balls are NOT USED in any re-enactment but handling a gun and black powder can be dangerous without care and attention. Accidents are extremely rare because all musketeers are thoroughly trained in the use of all their equipment, and have to pass a strict Sealed Knot Musket Test before they can fire on the battlefield. Before this they will carry a non-firing, dummy, musket which is loaned to them by the regiment. They will spend their first season gaining efficiency and learning the ropes from experienced musketeers while experiencing battle first-hand.