Accession Number

1986.008.0657a

Creation Date

circa 1700

Description

Ridges near muzzle. Recovered with 4 round lead shot in muzzle (1986.08.0657b--e).
Originally developed as early as the 1400s, the blunderbuss was relatively unchanged by the beginning of the 1700s. The short barrel, wide muzzle, large shot capacity, and wide dispersion in close quarters made it a favorite among sailors. It was also popular among African nations who could quickly train their armies with its use.