Academic Men Explain Things to Me

I participate in 18th century living history events. A young man with whom I am acquainted mentioned that he got himself a new gun on Facebook. Excited for him I asked him what kind he purchased. He replied: rev war.

I pried a little further, rattling off various types, hoping for a more detailed answer, to which he said, “Bess. It’s British.”  

I understand that style of musket is an English model. Fed up, and unwilling to deal with him any longer I said, “Silly question, eh? ;)” And I kicked myself, knowing I ought to have stood up for myself explaining that I knew what kind of gun he’d gotten and I was wondering what model he’d gotten for himself. 

He replied with, “Uh yea”. 

Only when another man asked him what kind of gun he purchased did he say both the kind and model.

Apparently I need basic answers because I can’t possibly have a working knowledge of 18th century muskets.