Original Civil War Surgeon’s Bullet Forceps

This is a unique medical item being offered, they are Civil War forceps for removing bullets and shrapnel from wounded soldiers. They measure 9 ½” x 3” and while much the same in design as modern examples, are fashioned of unplaited iron as opposed to the plaited variety of the later 1800s. Bullet forceps and extractors, of various types and sizes were in use during the Civil War.

During the Civil War, a surgeon might have removed a bullet by first locating it with a flexible probe or through palpation. Once located, they would have used forceps or a bullet extractor to retrieve the bullet. The wound was then typically sutured, packed with medicinal lint, and bandaged.

They show its age and being used, but remain in good condition, easily opens and closes. This is a great opportunity to add a rare piece to your Civil War collection.