Bullet extractor, Europe, 1501-1600

Made:
1501-1600 in Europe
Bullet extractor, 16th century, steel and brass

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Bullet extractor, 16th century, steel and brass
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Bullet extractor, 16th century, steel and brass

Although attempts had been made to remove bullet-like projectiles when firearms had been introduced into warfare as early as the 1200s, only those near the surface of the skin could be treated. Special instruments for removing bullets only came into use in the early 1500s as firearms became increasingly sophisticated.

Screw-type bullet extractors like this one have a hollow rod which contains a screw that can be lengthened or shortened by turning the handles. The instrument is placed in the wound and the screw lengthened to pierce the bullet to remove it. This bullet extractor is decorated with a brass inlay on the steel frame.

Details

Category:
Surgery
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A610633
Materials:
steel and brass
Measurements:
overall: 15 mm x 358 mm x 82 mm, 0.17 kg
type:
bullet extractor