Basic Military training issues for Recruits
This information is taken from period manuals and is correct for Warner's Regiment based on our research of journals and orderly books. It is applicable to other Northern Department units portraying a pre-1779 impression. The information and tutorials here are free for distribution as long as the original copyright and entire text is included. Linking to this page is welcome.
Line recruits are required to have a rudimentary understanding of the of how to handle black powder weapons safely according to 18th Century exercises and the maneuvers below before fielding with the Regiment at tactical events for safety and unit functioning.
The section Corporal and Platoon Serjeant are primarily responsible for safely integrating recruits into the Regiment’s Line. When he believes the recruit is adequately pre-pared for field service, the recruit’s Corporal informs the Platoon Serjeant who then examines the recruit’s performance and recommends to the Commander.
Primer for Recruits
Containing:
Individual Movements for the Soldier
Manual of Arms
Manual of Inspection
Platoon Maneuvers for Heavy Infantry
An extensive tutorial on firelock reliability, maintenance, and handling is From Click to Bang by Norm Fuss.
Note: the use of WD-40 as a protectant/lubricant is not recommended by the Regiment. The other lubricants/protectants described in the article are sufficient.
Essential Elements for Field Maneuvers
This animation explains the basic platoon maneuvers and is the minimum needed to move troops on the field. All advanced maneuvers the Regiment uses are built on these.
Keeping in mind that using black powder
weapons, bayonets, swords, and hatchets carries inherent risk of injury to
members and the public spectators, the regiment has adopted a number of safety
regulations to minimize risk. Many of
them are incorporated into our routine training, however, we also follow the
safety regulations as required by the Continental Line and NY
State Parks Black Powder Regulations.
