The enlarged ends of the
barrels of these blunderbusses is unusual, but it basically
served the same purposes as the more traditional funnel
design in providing a more threatening appearance and
facilitating the loading process. Inscribed with the
monogram of the notorious pirate Captain Henry Morgan, these
pieces are a reminder of the days when sea battles were
fought at much closer quarters.
The Blunderbuss was commonly used
on British, French, and American warships to repel would-be
boarders. They could be loaded with shot, nails, glass, or any
other material with the potential of causing severe harm to the
target. They were primarily used as a defensive measure in close
quarters. This English Flintlock Blunderbuss is typical of an
ornate 18th Century design and comes in a gold finish.
The blunderbuss could be considered an early shotgun, and
served in similar roles. While various old accounts often list the
blunderbuss as being loaded with various scrap iron, rocks, or
wood this would result in damage to the bore of the gun; it was
typically loaded with a number of lead balls smaller than the bore
diameter. Barrels could be made of steel or brass.
The blunderbuss, and especially the shorter dragon, was
typically issued to troops such as cavalry, who needed a
lightweight, easily handled firearm. The dragon became so
associated with cavalry and mounted infantry that the term dragoon
became synonymous with mounted infantry. In addition to the
cavalry, the blunderbuss found use for other duties in which the
shotgun-like qualities were desirable, such as for guarding
prisoners or defending a mail coach, and its use for urban combat
was also recognized.
Most Replica Blunderbuss Feature:
•Replica blunderbuss has working
mechanism
•Crafted by dedicated craftsmen in Spain
•Authentic size and weight of actual gun
•Blunderbuss makes a super prop gun
•Replica blunderbuss are a great costume accessory!
•Build an impressive gun collection!
•Denix replica guns are made of quality wood and metal
•Makes a unique decorator item and conversation piece
•Non-firable and can not be altered to do so
