Wheel-Lock from a Hunting Rifle, c. 1720–40. Germany, Munich, 18th century. Steel, engraved; overall: x cm (11 1/2 x 4 5/8 in.). At the beginning of the 1500s a new type of ignition system was invented: the wheel-lock, the first self-igniting mechanism for guns. This type of ignition involved a piece of iron pyrites held in the jaws of a cock. When the trigger was pulled the pyrites pressed against the serrated edge of a prewound revolving wheel, creating a shower of sparks that ignited priming powder in a pan on top of the lock. This action sent a flash of flame through the vent ho
Wheel-Lock from a Hunting Rifle, c. 1720–40. Germany, Munich, 18th century. Steel, engraved; overall: x cm (11 1/2 x 4 5/8 in.). At the beginning of the 1500s a new type of ignition system was invented: the wheel-lock, the first self-igniting mechanism for guns. This type of ignition involved a piece of iron pyrites held in the jaws of a cock. When the trigger was pulled the pyrites pressed against the serrated edge of a prewound revolving wheel, creating a shower of sparks that ignited priming powder in a pan on top of the lock. This action sent a flash of flame through the vent hole to explode the main charge in the breech of the barrel. Originally part of a deluxe hunting rifle, the lock plate's entire surface is engraved in a chaotic scene. Combating cavaliers, Turks, acanthus leaves, and trophies cover every bit of space.
Size: 3400px × 2672px
Photo credit: © CMA/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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