Powder Flask This powder flask would have been used to keep gunpowder dry. In the days before bullets and cartridges were invented, rifles or "muskets" as they were called would have been loaded with ball & powder. First, a measure of gunpowder would be loaded into the end of the barrel followed by a small piece of cloth or "wadding" and then a lead ball. This would be pushed down the barrel toward the butt. When the trigger was pulled, it would release a striking pin with a piece of flint. The flint would strike a spark that would light the gunpowder which would fire the ball out the end of the barrel. . Take Me Back!

Fort Langley National Historic Site, Fort Langley, B.C.