Shot horn
Shot Horn for muzzleloader
circa 1780
Small hollow cow horn for carrying bird shot for a muzzleloading shotgun. 7” x ~2” dia at large end. Still contains a few ounces of vintage ~1/8” diameter bird shot, likely produced by pouring small drops of molten lead in to water for fast cooling. Shot is heavily oxidized and appears brown. Wooden plug carefully nailed in large end with 4 small square-head nails. Outlet at tip closes with a crudely fitted stick (likely not original). Likely once had a brass tipped nozzle. Horn is deteriorated on one side, possibly by chemical or rodent actions. No provision for strap or handle.
2021.089.001