Powder Horn Length

[dlpowell]

When an horn is referred to as being 10 to whatever inches in length. Is that measurement taken by running a tape straight from the tip to the butt, or is it measured along the outside curve? I've got some horns that measure 10 to whatever straight from the tip to the butt. I think their too big.

What size horn do you prefer? :hmm:

 

[mikelange]

Generally the measurement is along the outside curve, meaning that a horn 10" from tip to butt in a straight line is actually somewhat larger. I agree that such a horn is too large for everyday use, but that's merely my own opinion. For the purposes of reenacting a longhunter or mountain man who could expect to be afield for weeks or months at a time, the larger horns are probably more correct. Having to actually use and carry mine during hunting season, I prefer something a little lighter and less bulky -- but, again, it's a matter of personal preference.

 

[Black Hand]

I addition, depending on what time in history you portray, the size of the horns differ (generally, not a hard and fast rule). It would also depend on the type of firearm you were carrying.

 

[Twisted_1in66]

I addition, depending on what time in history you portray, the size of the horns differ (generally, not a hard and fast rule). It would also depend on the type of firearm you were carrying.

Powder horns in the mid-1700's (F&I War era) tended to be larger than horns used after the Revolutionary War. Might be because rifles and muskets started being made in smaller calibers after the AWI and didn't need as much powder for the same number of shots.

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Twisted_1in66 :thumbsup:

 

[davidesau]

I think what you carry would somewhat determine the ammount of powder you would need to carry. Also, some fellas, like me, prime from their main horn. A long fairly straight tipped horn makes it easier to reach across the breach area to the pan. My horn is 16" on the outside, but only 2 3/4" across the base. I carry it high and tight on my right side, and it's very comfortable.
HT

 

[Forster]

Don,
I just went down stairs and measured my horn, it's almost 14" on the curve. I never thought about it but it is kinda to big. I'll bet you it could hold almost a pound of powder. I don't hunt anymore, just shoot at the range these days. Well one thing for sure, I'd have to do a whole lot of shootin before I'd run out of powder.
I bought it as a kit from TOW. I had asked the guy if they had ones with a lot of white, he put me on hold and went back and hand selected a nice horn for me. Thats what I like about the "Track" they have always done their best for me and thats why I keep going back. Good people.
I have seen some beautiful horns here on the forum lately. I would sure like to add some schrimshaw to it but unfortunatly I don't have those artistic skills. I might try just a little to see how hard it is ....who knows?...Jim

 

[hornbuilder]

to all you fella's that have horns that they think are too big , just package them up and send them off to me, i have lots of trouble finding bigger horns to work ... i prefer them about 16"-18" in length , f & i period horns are what i like to build..... :thumbsup:

 

[Zonie]

Whan Ah wer a mosyin thru Taxas durin tha French Injen wer Ah peked up ah horn what otter mak ye eat yer hart out:

Zonie :grin: