Priming flasks, powder horns, powder flasks and cartridge boxes

Powder horns and powder flasks were used for storing black powder (gunpowder). The black powder – used as a propellant – would be poured out of these containers into the barrel of a muzzle loader before inserting the actual shot, i.e. the bullet

Powder horns and powder flasks were generally carried in the 17th century together with priming powder flasks. The latter were used for storing priming powder; this was used with muzzleloaders for igniting the black powder. Powder horns and powder flasks were hung on string or on a belt using a hook.

In the second half of the 16th century continuing into the early 17th century, trapezoid powder and priming flasks were used. These were covered in leather or sometimes with brocade. According to the 1596 armoury inventory, the fabric was taken from old church vestments.

Cartridge boxes consist of a metal shell with a lid with a wooden insert. Five to six paper tubes filled with powder could be stored in these, which meant that it was not necessary to measure out the correct amount of powder from the powder flask: the paper tubes could be torn open and stuffed straight into the barrel.