British Blunderbuss

 

This is an example of a British Flintlock Blunderbuss.  This piece is made of wood and brass, and measures around 40″.  The smoothbore blunderbuss was used as a weapon against boarding attackers on ships.  Intended for short range use, it was packed with a large powder charge and whatever shot, nails, or shrapnel was available, then shot as one would a standard musket.    For source and more details, click here.

 

Image from: http://www.cr.nps.gov/museum/exhibits/revwar/image_gal/morrimg/blunderbuss.html