Flintlock was a firing mechanism used in pistols, muskets, and other firearms from about 1620 to the mid-1800’s. Flintlock weapons had a piece of flint clamped in a piece called a cock. When the trigger was pulled, the cock snapped forward and the flint struck a piece of steel on a pivot, creating sparks. At the same time, a small pan filled with gunpowder was exposed. The sparks caused the gunpowder to explode and ignite the main charge in the barrel. Flintlocks could be half-cocked—that is, in a safety position—or fully cocked and ready for firing. Flintlock weapons were eventually replaced by firearms that used percussion caps.
