Complete .69 caliber Buck & Ball Cartridge

Being offered is an original Buck & Ball cartridge. The overall length is 3 ½” and is wrapped in paper and string.

Buck and ball cartridges were used during the Civil War, primarily in the early years and among troops equipped with older, smoothbore .69 caliber muskets. The load consisted of one large round ball and three smaller buckshot pellets, designed to create a "shotgun effect" that was devastating at close range, such as in repelling charges.

It is fragile because of its age, and it has been glued in a few places to keep it tight and from leaking powder. However, it is a good representation of what was actually used. These complete cartridges are very difficult to find today It comes in the glass top display case pictured.