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  • shell casings

    • Artifact ID #: 1607
    • Excavation Unit: 5N 8W
    • Level: Unknown
    • Identification: Nipple wrench for a large frame Colt Revolver, likely an 1851 Navy Colt, .36 caliber. Before modern centerfire shells, older weapons used an external source for igniting the powder to propel the projectile. The hammer of a blackpowder pistol, rifle or shotgun, would strike the percussion cap situated on a ‘nipple” and the resulting spark would ignite the powder in the loaded chamber. To allow for cleaning or replacement, the nipples could be removed by this special wrench. Modern centerfire shells, with a built-in primer, were invented during the American Civil War, and the older blackpowder weapons slowly became obsolete during the late 1800s. Many people still use blackpowder weapons today for hunting and recreation.


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