A blunderbuss is a type of early firearm that was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. It features a wide, flared muzzle, which allows for a larger spread of shot when fired. This design made it effective for close-range combat, as it could hit multiple targets at once. Blunderbusses were often used by sailors and highwaymen due to their ease of use and effectiveness in various situations. Typically made of brass or iron, blunderbusses were loaded with gunpowder and a variety of projectiles, such as lead balls or scrap metal. The weapon is considered a precursor to modern shotguns and is often associated with historical figures like pirates and bandits. Today, blunderbusses are primarily of interest to collectors and historians.