Powder Horn

The use of the Powder Horn goes back to the Middle Ages where they were used to carry gunpowder for early firearms. As firearms became more common during the Renaissance and later periods, so too did the use of the powder horn. They were mainly used for pistols and muskets but would also be used for the priming of large naval guns. The use of animal horn along with nonferrous metal parts ensured that the powder would not be detonated during storage and loading. It was not unknown for soldiers to polish the inside and outside of the horn to make them translucent enough to see how much powder they had left. Powder Horns were usually filled from the top and dispensed powder from the narrow point.

A working powder horn based on a historical design. Constructed from real horn (a by-product of the meat trade) with a working brass valve. The wooden lid is tacked into place and cannot be removed. It is possible to fill this horn with liquid by unscrewing the valve. It is designed for ornamental use only.

Length: 35cm

All dimensions are approximate and may vary from piece to piece.

Horn is a natural product and may differ in pattern and colour from the one shown in picture.