Brass Ship Wheel Bottle Opener

As the ship wheel was adopted by fleets and navies throughout Europe, so was it adopted by the pirates of the day. By 1715 the ship’s wheel had become standard on deck, and by the 1740s ships often had dual wheels, allowing two crew members to steer simultaneously for greater control of the ship during rough seas, an attack on a vessel, or a quick getaway from the Queen’s Navy. During this time, pirate ship wheels evolved, with small changes being implemented throughout the years. The size of the wheel increased, often becoming as physically large as to fit reasonably on deck, allowing for maximum leverage. Intricately carved brackets were often used to mount the pirate ship wheel, while the barrel became larger at the ends than in the middle to better keep the tiller rope in order. On some pirate ship wheels steadying grooves were actually carved into the barrel, with the rope nailed to the center then wrapped five to seven times around it for smooth tension on the rudder. Wheel spokes came to emerge through the circumference of the rim rather than ending inside of it, allowing for a sturdier wheel as well as creating a convenient handle for the helmsman. Usually ten spokes were used, spaced 36 degrees apart, with the handles carved by lathe for a smooth and more comfortable grip. Along with the carving of the mounts and the handles, the inside of the pirate ship wheels were often carved with traditional symbols to bring the ship and the pirates good luck, longevity, and safe travels.