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

The flint-lock followed, now half a century since superseded by the percussion lock and cap.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

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

From Rides on Railways by Sidney, Samuel

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

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