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

"Loaded 'n' primed," said Greenglove, pulling his bright new Cramer percussion lock rifle—another present from Raoul—from its saddle sling, controlling his pony easily with his knees alone.

From Shaman by Shea, Robert

With a ramrod for a rest, he prosecuted his work vigorously, and afterwards asked me to examine a percussion lock on his gun, a novelty to me at the time.

From John James Audubon by Burroughs, John

The walls of his hut are seldom unadorned with an ancient fowling-piece: generally a converted "flinter," modernized with percussion lock, and having an enormous exterior spring for its motive power.

From Wild Spain (Espa?a agreste) Records of Sport with Rifle, Rod, and Gun, Natural History Exploration by Buck, Walter J.

The flint-lock followed, now half a century since superseded by the percussion lock and cap.

From Voyages of Samuel De Champlain — Volume 02 by Otis, Charles P. (Charles Pomeroy)