Hagbut

/ˈhæɡbʌt/ noun

Definition

An early type of portable firearm or musket, used in the 16th and 17th centuries, often requiring a support stand.

Etymology

Possibly from Dutch 'haakbus,' from 'haak' (hook) + 'bus' (gun), referring to the hooked support that held up the heavy barrel. Used in English military terminology.

Kelly Says

Hagbuts were so awkward and slow that soldiers armed with long pikes actually had the advantage—it took 45 seconds to reload, yet hagbut technology evolved into weapons that made pike obsolete.

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