Arms Collection

This collection comprises of the following:

• Specimens of weapons made in Birmingham through the ages and of all classes.
• Military long arms from the Brown Bess Flintlock to military rifle made by BSA in Birmingham.
• A unique set of specimens, most of which were once the property of the Proof House, but were later donated to Birmingham Borough, now City Council, in 1876, have now been returned to the Proof House on long term loan basis. The collection traces the evolution of firearms from the Matchlock to centrefire cartridge weapons.
• Examples of industrial weapons made in Birmingham from the Harpoon Gun to the Cattle Killer.
• Weapons used in the test of proof cartridges using crusher gauge measuring system.

In addition to the above, the Proof House also has a “Black Museum” containing exhibits of weapons and barrels which have blown up in the field to those which are out of proof and represent a real danger to the shooter if they were to be fired. This instructive collection will help visitors to understand the problems and defects which can affect the safety of firearms.