Civil War Port Fire Holder

Description

Civil War Port Fire Holder and Portfire 

Nice original example, this interesting device was used as a slow burning match to ignite the charge in muzzle loading cannon prior to the adoption of friction primers. Constructed as a wooden handle, which is cut into four even quarters at one end, with a 20 mm opening, into which the 18 inch tightly wrapped paper match can be inserted. A collar slides towards the match end of the handle, compressing the segments together to hold the match securely. At the other end of the handle is a 1.25 inch metal spike, Overall sound example.  Overall length 23”.

Inventory Number:  ART 480