Where to find Raw Horns and other Powder Horn Supplies
This week on Instagram I was asked about powderhorns, specifically where to find raw horns to make into a powderhorn, or other horn-related goods pertaining to traditional American Crafts. Because I live in an area overflowing with enthusiasm for muzzleloading, I'm never more than a month away from an event with well-stocked sutlers ready to supply any muzzle loading project. My go-to is always one of these events, but for many of you, you'll need to dig a little deeper.
Below I've outlined some of the most mentioned places to shop for raw horns. I think it's important to mention here too, that the US is home to the Honourable Company of Horners, a US-based Horn guild dedicated to all things horn. They publish a series of hornbooks each year packed with educational material, host classes, as well as host their own event, the "Horn Fair", a multi-day educational seminar and shopping experience with some of the best traditional craftspeople working today.
If you are interested in working with horn, you need to check out the Honourable Company of Horners. Learn more at HornGuild.org
Supplies
Roland Cadle- Village Restorations http://www.villagerestorations.com/home
Henry Bowman - Horns and Horn Kits https://www.facebook.com/Henry-Bowman-Horner-105609727996606
Powder Horns and More https://www.powderhornsandmore.com/
Other places to shop;
Local Antique stores
Cattle Farms, notably Double_M_Farms on Instagram wrote in to say he keeps several from the butcher. Be sure to ask your local cattle farm, you may be able to buy locally!
Not into making your own horn?
It's okay if you aren't interested in making your own horn. I think there are more options now than there have been in recent history, at least since the 1800s. With groups like the Honourable Company of Horners growing by the year, there are thousands of talented horners selling one of a kind works of art at very reasonable prices.
These hand made horns can go from $50-$300 generally, with styles fittting every era or budget. Below I’ve linked two members of the HCH, there are many more though!
https://pahorner.wixsite.com/pa-horner
If these horns are out of your price range, Track of the Wolf and Dixie Gun Works both sell a series of imported powder horns. These horns aren’t as nice as the American made horns I’ve touted here, but they will get the job done on a budget. Don’t let anyone degrade your muzzleloading gear, it’s not important what you spend on your tools, what matters is getting out and enjoying it. The longer you stick with it, the better your accoutrements will be.
I personally have a couple horns, most recently I picked up this southern banded powderhorn from Tim Crosby at the CLA Show. It’s got a nice coat of milk paint, giving it a splash of color.
I hope this short article helps you find the right powder horn for your set up!