percussion lock

American  

noun

1. a gunlock on a firearm that fires by striking a percussion cap.

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percussion lock British  

noun

1. a gunlock in which the hammer strikes a percussion cap

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Etymology

Origin of percussion lock

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

“We only have handmade guns and percussion lock firearms,” the villager said.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 10, 2021

In the percussion lock, there are fifteen pieces; in the common flint lock, eight.

From Rides on Railways by Sidney, Samuel

The gun I used was a little old percussion lock rifle, with a long barrel, carrying a bullet which weighed about sixty to the pound.

From The Story of a Common Soldier of Army Life in the Civil War, 1861-1865 by Stillwell, Leander

He surveyed with great attention the percussion lock and heavier barrel of the rifle, surprised, no doubt, at its superior make and accuracy.

From Three Expeditions into the Interior of Eastern Australia, Volume 1 by Mitchell, Thomas

General Scott doubted if the percussion lock was as well suited to field use as the flint lock, but Davis knew better.

From The Brothers' War by Reed, John Calvin