Historical information

This cartridge re-loader is most likely for loading 12 gauge shotgun shells. It is not known if it was for private or military use.

Significance

This cartridge re-loader has been in the collection of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society for many years but it has no known local provenance. It is an interesting relic from times past.

Physical description

This is a brass cartridge re-loader. It has a rectangular brass base with four brass columns supporting a rectangular top with a hollow middle. The columns of the casing are affixed with metal screws. Inside this protective casing are two cartridge-shaped brass pillars, one with a metal spike at the end and one with a small opening at the top. Both of these pillars are fixed to the base of the protective casing. Over-arching these two objects is a brass lever hinged at the end. This has a wooden handle The arm of the lever has a small protusion on the bottom which pushes into the opening of one of the pillars. It also has a small indentation which fits into the spike of the other pillar.

Inscriptions & markings

‘12’