@RanchRoper ,
This is an old buffalo powderhorn that came (more or less) from your part of the world. The description said Canada, possibly Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba, which covers a lot of real estate, but at least it was in your general direction:
I like it... Very basic, but neatly made. The butt plug looks like some kind of softwood to me. This one has subtle "facets" or panels worked into the surface, much like the horn described in the "how to" article in the current issue of
MUZZLELOADER magazine. There is a flathead wood screw in the base for attachment of a strap. Not very creative or attractive, but I've seen images of a lot of 19th century horns that had exactly that. The two holes in the side up near the spout are likely from a staple that pulled out. I don't care much for the staple in the neck like that, and in fact it is unnecessary if there is a carved shoulder like this one has, but there are the holes, whether I like 'em or not. This horn is in the National Museum of Scotland, of all places, and you can read what they have to say about it and see a larger image here:
Buffalo Powder Horn, Ref. No. A.702.1
I'm looking forward to seeing your finished horn!
Notchy Bob
