These simple iron ring gauges allowed for quick inspection and sorting of shot and shell by size, something of critical importance to a gun crew and a large task given the huge stacks of cannon balls seen in some photographs of ordnance yards. This one was to sort 8-inch rounds, has pitting, but is legibly stamped on one side below the loop: “WASHINGTON / ARSENAL / 1841.” The other side clearly shows an “8” and what seems to be an “0” (perhaps “8.0” diameter.) It is tough to make out anything else on that side, but the ring does measure 8-inches and, given the date, we assume it to be for use with the M1840 8-Inch Siege Howitzer.

The wood handle is in place, in good condition, and secured by a brass ferrule having a nicely aged patina.  [SR][ph:L]

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