Touchhole reinforcement
 

This is the small barrel that I recently obtained.

I noted that the touchhole seems to be reinforced with some sort of insert. It is difficult to tell but I think that this "insert" (if it is) is non-magnetic.

As we have seen with other barrels, the corrosive nature of gunpowder can, and often did, erode the touchhole. Thing is that I have not noticed any sort of reinforcement on other barrels.

Thoughts?

Very nice and early barrel Ed, looks like it is made of wrought wound iron. Circa 1350-90s
For the touchhole i would refer to this thread post 29, 30 and 92
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ight=touchhole

I did see this on other barrels too but it is an exception to the more often seen dimpled touchhole.

Good catch. I see some subtle signs of it being wound. What alerted you to it?

It is very subtle but i have been fortunate to handle quite a few of barrels from all ages.
Attached picture showes the lines in the iron which makes me think this is indeed wound iron ;)
Could you make a picture from the inside of the barrel bore? Most likely it is very irregular.

Image missing ...
Here are two shots shot ... sorry ablaut the quality. If you want me to try again I shall.

Beautiful, thank you Ed. The barrel is very irregular forged as can be seen from the inside. It also looks, again, like a spiraling "wound" iron shape.

As to the picture, i noticed this happens lately. Refreshing the page should mend the unloaded picture

This is another Portuguese barrel (Fernando will recognize it). Do you see evidence of winding?

Funny.... now that I am looking for it, I see it.