1276. A cap box, or capper, it worked as both a container and dispenser (much like dispensers of modern hearing-aid batteries), placing a cap in the spring-catch at the opening, from which the shooter could easily press the cap into position on the gun. Percussion caps greatly simplified and improved ignition, but the small caps could be difficult to handle with cold hands. A newer model can be seen here.

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1277. A Chouinard ice ax/hammer, similar to the one on this page:

From Scotty Fulton's collection


























1278. An ox shoe:



















1279. A piece of anti-bird hardware, made to prevent birds from landing, roosting and nesting in inappropriate places.






















These next two were submitted by visitors:

1280. A ring clamp, used to hold a ring or any other small object while working on it, patent number 327,558:





























1281. Don't yet know what this was for:

















1282. A gunpowder tester, photographed at the Frasier International History Museum.

Because gunpowder varied in explosive power, gunsmiths needed devices to test particular batches. By the 1500's, elaborate powder testers were available. This one resembles contemporary military pistols and may have belonged to a military gunsmith. Pulling the trigger ignited a measured amount of powder in the tube atop the tester, turning and locking a spring-loaded, numbered wheel. The number at which the wheel stopped indicated the powder's strength. The development of self-contained cartridges during the 1800's made powder testers obsolete.

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Previously seen on this site:












































To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.




























The answer page will be posted on Friday.
























Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:







Black Ops Pro Tips
More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.