Answer: Depending on the context used, a blunderbuss can mean a few things things. In the 17th century a blunderbuss was the name used for a type of gun. They were used before rifles were invented. In modern times, the blunderbuss is known as muzzle loading musket and/or a pistol. A blunderbuss is also sometimes used to refer to a person who is clumsy or stupid.
In many older books written, the blunderbuss word is used as weapon.