Southern Mountain Hunting Horn by Ron Vail

This hunting horn is very similar to the original featured on page 187 of "Sketches of Hunting Pouches - Powder Horns - and Accoutrements of Southern Appalachia" by Jim Webb. Hunting horns/blowing horns/cow horn trumpets are used to call the dogs while on the hunt - call the other hunters back together - sound alarms, etc. This horn, as is the original, is 14" long from the deer antler mouth piece to the base of the horn. 

Copy and photos supplied by Ron Vail.

Ron Vail Horn

Photos supplied by Ron Vail.

18th Century Style Bait Horns by Ron Vail

These are based on a horn from the 1700's that is in a private collection. This horn was used to carry grubs, crickets, grasshoppers, worms, etc. while fishing. I believe that the original was homemade rather than made by a professional. At this time I don't know if this was a fairly common item or if this was one person's idea and made for his own use. 

Copy by Ron Vail with photo by Shelly Vail.

Ron Vail Horn

 

Photo supplied by Ron Vail.

Ron Vail Horn

Photos supplied by Ron Vail.

Ron Vail Horn

The horn is named the Big Fish Little Fish. Length around the outside curve is 13". The pine butt plug is 2 1/2" in diameter and has a brass ring pull for a strap attachment. Engaved on the horn is a big fish chasing a little fish and a rising sun. Included with the horn is an attached primitive style leather strap.

Photos by Shelly Vail. More of Ron's work can be seen at his web site, Ron Vail Powder Horns.