Civilians owned the same types of weapons as the military including cannons, small ships of war, etc. Of course, a lot of people also didn't own the same type of weapons.
The primary infantry weapon was the musket. It was smooth bore and not long barreled. It could be reloaded quickly but was not highly accurate. Military doctrine of the day involved formations of men firing rapidly. So they could overpower other forces by rate of fire at close range. Sending many bullets inaccurately towards the enemy.
For many civilians the primary weapon was a rifle. It had a longer barrel, took longer to reload, but was highly accurate up to much longer distances. It was intended primarily for hunting.
[–] Maxcactus ago
In that day was there much distinction between rifles owned by civilians and the army?
[–] Thisismyvoatusername ago
Civilians owned the same types of weapons as the military including cannons, small ships of war, etc. Of course, a lot of people also didn't own the same type of weapons.
The primary infantry weapon was the musket. It was smooth bore and not long barreled. It could be reloaded quickly but was not highly accurate. Military doctrine of the day involved formations of men firing rapidly. So they could overpower other forces by rate of fire at close range. Sending many bullets inaccurately towards the enemy.
For many civilians the primary weapon was a rifle. It had a longer barrel, took longer to reload, but was highly accurate up to much longer distances. It was intended primarily for hunting.
[–] Maxcactus ago
It really takes a long time for military leaders to change up their doctrines.