Powder horns Museum of Design in Plastics

Horns were ideal containers for gunpowder, not only for soldiers, but also for miners and quarrymen, being inflammable, waterproof, and easy to fill at the wide end and empty at the tip. They are also light to carry and their curve fits comfortably against the body. But a powder horn was more than a tool: it evolved into a vehicle for expression. Those shown exemplify three types of powder horn: plain, engraved, and decorated with silver mounts. They also demonstrate a range in size and colour.

Powder Horn, American

Powder Horns At The DAR Museum Today's DAR

Decorative carved horn Museum of Design in Plastics

Powder Horns - Historic Deerfield

Plastics: An architectural study

Exploring Engraved Powder Horns - Historic Deerfield

Antique Tibetan Bullet Pouch and Powder Flasks

National Museum of the American Indian

Powder horn with metal mounts

Powder horns Museum of Design in Plastics

Decorative carved horn Museum of Design in Plastics

Exploring Engraved Powder Horns - Historic Deerfield