This gallery describes the transition between the Old World firearms and the development of firearms in the new colonies. Learn about the discovery of gunpowder and marvel at the first projectile arms and a hand cannon. Follow the development of firearms from the Matchlock to the Wheel Lock to the Snaphaunce, and such firing mechanisms as the Doglock and the Miquelet, introduced by the Spanish in the 17th century. Examine the story of how firearms played such an integral part in early American exploration, settlement, survival, and trade.

Significant Firearms in Gallery II:

• Diorama depicting a colonist of Jamestown, Virginia, firing a matchlock musket
• Hand cannon c. 1350 -- oldest gun in collection
• Solid silver "rattail" pistol pair
• German "ball butt" dag pistol
• The Mayflower gun -- thought to have been brought to the New World from England by John Alden
• French wheel lock target/hunting rifle
• Spanish blunderbuss with grotesque ornamentation

The National Firearms Museum would like to thank the following for their contributions, making this gallery possible:
» Hodgdon Powder Company
» Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Easley
» The Hornady Family
» Mr. and Mrs. Anthony J. Chimblo III