POWDER FLASK

A complete but damaged Post Medieval cast lead powder measure with a nozzle used for measuring and pouring a charge of gunpowder. The sides of the upper part of the measure, are pushed inwards. The rim of the measure would probably have been oval in plan, prior to being damaged. There is a vertical casting seam on the measure which does not continue onto the funnel. On each side of the measure, close to the base, is a misshapen flat loop. Projecting from the base is a tapering integral nozzle which would deliver the powder charge down the muzzle of the weapon. The nozzle is flattened but would have been oval in cross-section beneath the base of the measure and circular in cross-section at the other end. The loops enabled the cap to be attached separately to the bandolier (belt) of the wearer so that they could be removed without the possibility of being dropped and lost. The measure would have held enough powder for a complete charge for the weapon. The measures and nozzle is 41.1mm long. It is 29.5mm wide and weighs 25.13 grams. A series of these measures were attached to the bandolier. The powder measure would date to circa AD1600-1700. For information on small arms accessories of the seventeenth century, see: Courtney, P. 1988. "Small Arms Accessories of the Mid-Seventeenth Century". Finds Research Group 700 - 1700.