percussion cap
Small explosive detonator
A percussion cap is a small metal cylinder containing explosive compound that detonates when struck, used to ignite the propellant charge in firearms.
Before cartridge ammunition became standard in the mid-19th century, percussion caps were fitted onto a nipple at the gun's breech; the hammer's strike would set off the cap, sending flame into the barrel: He fumbled with the percussion cap in the rain.
Preparatory coat or guide
- fulminateProtest vehemently and loudly
- detonatorExplosive initiation device
- nippleMammary projection
- anvilMetal-shaping block
hammer · impact · trigger · ignition · firing pin · copper cup · potassium chlorate · sensitivity
Muzzle-loaded infantry firearm
- rifleLong-barreled shoulder weapon
- revolverPistol with rotating chamber
- pistolCompact one-handed firearm
- carbineShort-barreled lightweight firearm
shotgun · caplock · muzzleloader · breech-loading · flintlock · firelock · long rifle · Colt
Obvious; inventor's monopoly
- ForsythScottish-origin surname
- ShawBritish-origin family name
- fulminateProtest vehemently and loudly
- innovationCreating something original
self-contained · waterproof · reliability · nineteenth century · Scottish · gunsmith · hunting · standardization
Sealed container for supplies
- bulletFired metal projectile
- powderFine dry particles
- chargeCost or accusation
- ballSpherical plaything or gala
shot · centerfire · rimfire · casing · propellant · black powder · wadding · caliber
Noisemaking play weapon
- bangSudden loud noise
- snapSudden sharp sound
- fireworksExplosive light displays
- party popperSmall celebratory noisemaker device
primer
Preparatory coat or guide
anvil · hammer · impact · trigger · ignition · firing pin · copper cup · potassium chlorate · sensitivity · reliable
musket
Muzzle-loaded infantry firearm
- rifleLong-barreled shoulder weapon
- revolverPistol with rotating chamber
- pistolCompact one-handed firearm
carbine · shotgun · caplock · muzzleloader · breech-loading · flintlock · firelock · long rifle · Colt · Remington
patent
Obvious; inventor's monopoly
innovation · self-contained · waterproof · reliability · nineteenth century · Scottish · gunsmith · hunting · standardization · mass production
cartridge
Sealed container for supplies
ball · shot · centerfire · rimfire · casing · propellant · black powder · wadding · caliber · round
cap gun
Noisemaking play weapon
percussion capflintlock
Flint-sparked firearm mechanism
matchlock · electronic ignition · fuse · slow match · time fuse