Spanish Snaphaunce Fowler

Early 17th Century Spanish Colonial Snaphaunce-Lock Fowler (single shot/ muzzle-loading/ black powder/ shot ammunition) This snaphaunce, based on the principle of striking flint against steel to create sparks, originated in Spain around 1600. It was restocked and rebanded in Mexico.

After 1610 Spaniards continued developing colonial New Mexico (present-day Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and New Mexico) and Texas. Snaphaunce fowlers, which fire shot instead of ball ammunition, are easily repaired and accurate at short range. They can be used in rain, and are quick to re-load. The display gun was employed by Spanish colonists for hunting and personal defense. Early English, Dutch, and French colonists also used snaphaunces and fowlers. -- Dr. William L. Roberts, THE AMERICAN LIBERTY COLLECTION; #5