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c. 1780 18th C. Hand-Engraved Brass and Wood Powder Tester, Choice Very Fine

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:600.00 - 800.00 USD
c. 1780 18th C. Hand-Engraved Brass and Wood Powder Tester, Choice Very Fine
American Revolution
Choice 18th C. Engraved Brass and Wood Powder Tester
c. 1780 18th Century, Hand-Engraved Brass and Wood Powder Tester, Choice Very Fine.
This hand-held Powder Tester measures about 6.75” in length, it is unmarked except for the extensive hand-engraving on one side of the circular brass dial. It consists of a brass wheel connected to a cover mounted on the front of a brass barrel and an "open" touch hole, complete with wood pistol grip. It would be fired by touching a spark or wick to the touch hole, which caused the wheel to be rotated by the pressure exerted against the cover. The number displayed on the dial would indicate the strength/grade of the powder being tested. Overall, in choice, pleasing condition.