Screw-tip Horns and Their Function

[Marcruger]

Hi Folks,  I was reading in my book on Pennsylvania longrifles, in a section regarding powder horns.  It noted that one purpose of the screw tip on a horn was to act as a funnel to aid in filling the horn (once unscrewed and reversed of course).  Being a greenhorn myself, I had never thought of that.  It would seem too small in diameter to act as a funnel, but then, anything as a funnel is better than nothing.

I always thought the screw tip was for a more secure method of ensuring the horn tip remained closed until needed. 

Any thoughts on all of this?   

Best wishes, and God Bless,   Marc

[skillman]

Marc
The screwtip horn was the result of factory production of powder horns. With each member of the factory concentrating on one aspect of the horn, the total production would be more than if they were built one at a time. The screw tips were highly decorative but quick to make and allowed the parts to be assembled into a horn. The tip was still closed with a standard plug like any other horn. It would be rather inconvenient to have to unscrew the tip every time you wanted to load from it.
 Art DeCamp has written a wonderful book on the history and styles of screw tip horns. If you're interested in them, you could do no better than to read it.

Steve

[Marcruger]

Well that makes good sense!  Thank you for the detailed reply Steve.  Best wishes,  Marc