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Flintlock Box-Lock Powder Tester

Gunsmith Possibly John Southall
ca. 1800
Not on view
The strength of gunpowder varied considerably before standardized cartridges were invented. Powder testers enabled sportsmen, gunmakers and gunsmiths, and other firearms users to test the power of gunpowder before using it in their firearms. Loaded like a typical flintlock, this common type of tester incorporated a wheel that turned upon firing, measuring the force of the blast.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Flintlock Box-Lock Powder Tester
  • Gunsmith: Possibly John Southall (British, active ca. 1769–1817)
  • Date: ca. 1800
  • Geography: London
  • Culture: British, Birmingham or London
  • Medium: Steel, wood (walnut), brass
  • Dimensions: L. 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm); W. 4 in. (10.2 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 2 oz. (510.3 g)
  • Classification: Firearms Accessories
  • Credit Line: Gift of Thomas E. Kirby, 1916
  • Object Number: 16.44
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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