Civil War Atillery Tow Hook

This reproduction artillery tow hook was an essential tool carried in every limber chest. Measuring approximately 16 inches in overall length, it featured a claw-hammer head forged onto one end of an iron handle, while the opposite end was bent at a right angle to form a pointed hook.

The tool served several important functions in the operation of field artillery. The claw end was used to pry open ammunition crate lids, while the hooked end removed the packing material that secured rounds during transport and prevented them from shifting inside the crate. The small hammer face was used for light repair work, including fastening tin straps to wooden sabots and performing other tasks requiring a compact hammer.

Simple in design yet highly practical, the artillery tow hook was an indispensable implement for every gun crew and an important part of the equipment carried with each limber chest.

Stamped US on hammer