Hi Bernard,thanks for your response to my recent note re loading the Baker Rifle in Sharpe’s Battle page 245. I understand you may own one of the Indian made Bakers? These leave quite a bit to be desired re authenticity. I understand that your rifle may allow the flared end of the loading rod to go first down the carbine bore but this is not correct. I ask that you please observe the gentleman, in Australia, shooting the Baker rifle 13 shots in under 4 minutes on the following You Tube site; www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eqz7XLkyx8Y.

I am not trying to be picky. I, like all your other readers, know how much effort you make to be factually accurate in your stories. Whether you want to be or not you ARE an authority on these matters. The large (top)end of the rod is a palm pad- it is not a ball seating flare. I am just trying to help you. Thanks again, Stuart.