Split Shot

Accession Number1986.008.2235

VesselSanta Margarita (1622)

Datecirca 1620

DescriptionWired lead split shot from the wreck of the 1622 galleon Santa Margarita. This type of shot – two lead hemispheres joined by twisted bronze wires – was designed to open after firing and cut a wider swath than a regular round ball. The broader aim increased the likelihood of injuring enemy combatants. The diameter of the joined halves is 2.1 centimeters, roughly the size of musket shot. But this type of ammunition could also be fired in quantity from a cannon, delivering a multi-projectile blast. Overall length is 8.1 centimeters.