Pronunciation: [hˈakbʌs] (IPA) 
Hackbuss is a firearm that was popularized in the 16th century. It is also spelled as "hagbut" or "arquebus". The word "hackbuss" is pronounced as /ˈhækbəs/ and is derived from the German word "hakenbüchse" meaning hooked gun. The spelling of the word with "b" instead of "p" is due to the evolution of the English language. The spelling "hagbut" is also due to the similarity in sound between "h" and "k" in some dialects of English.
A hackbuss, also commonly spelled as "hackbut" or "hakbut," is a type of firearm that was widely used during the 15th to 17th centuries. It is considered one of the earliest muzzle-loaded long guns, predating the musket. The term "hackbuss" originates from the Middle French word "hacquebute" or the Middle Dutch word "hakebus," both of which mean "hook gun."
The hackbuss typically consists of a long barrel with a smooth bore, mounted on a wooden stock. Its defining feature is a hooked-shaped armament attached to the end of the barrel, resembling a small hook or bracket. This hook allowed the user to firmly hold the firearm against their shoulder, providing better stability while shooting. It also somewhat mitigated the recoil force when firing since the hook acted as an anchor. The firearm is loaded from the front by pouring gunpowder down the barrel, followed by a bullet or shot which is tamped down using a rod.
The hackbuss was known for its relatively slow reloading process, making it less efficient in battles against rapidly advancing enemies. However, its range and accuracy surpassed earlier firearms such as hand cannons. Additionally, the presence of a hook and longer barrel made the hackbuss more stable while shooting, increasing accuracy. These factors contributed to its popularity among soldiers and civilians alike during the late medieval and early modern periods.
Today, the hackbuss is primarily a historical artifact, found in museums or collections focusing on weaponry from the Renaissance era.
The word "hackbuss" (or "hackbut") is derived from the German word "Hakenbüchse", which translates to "hook gun" in English.
During the late 15th and early 16th centuries, this term was used to describe a type of early firearm characterized by a hook-shaped attachment near the muzzle. The hook allowed the user to rest the weapon on a wall, tree branch, or other support, providing stability while firing. Over time, the term "hakenbüchse" evolved into "hackbuss" in English, referring specifically to this type of firearm.
