The Gun Lock Trade

[Heartland]

Before guns and rifles had the technology to fire bullets, there was the long period of use of what was called the gun lock
These started with the flint lock, went through the percussion lock era and there were also various types of safety locks
Birmingham and South Staffordshire were involved in making the parts and there were trades such as gun lock forger and gun lock filer. Component parts also included springs
Such a complex history deserves further comment.

 

[mw0njm.]

Discovered in 1805 by Alexander Forsyth (1786–1843), the percussion lock revolutionized firearms theory and opened the way to the development of self-contained metal cartridges and contact fuses in artillery shells. Forsyth found that potassium chlorate would explode when given a sharp blow

Lock (firearm) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

In a gun or firearm which uses loose gunpowder: a mechanism by means of which the charge is exploded

 

[mw0njm.]

Gun Timeline | History Detectives | PBS

 

[mw0njm.]

What is the difference between a flintlock and a miquelet lock?

Miquelet Lock: How It Revolutionized Swordplay and Early Firearms

Introduction to Miquelet Lock What is the Miquelet Lock? The Miquelet Lock, a marvel of early firearm technology, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of gunsmiths from yesteryears. This mechanism, often associated with Spanish firearms, revolutionized the way guns were made and used. The term...

minikatana.com

Both mechanisms utilize a flint striking against steel to create a spark for ignition. However, the Miquelet Lock stands out with its unique external features and enhanced reliability. Unlike the standard flintlock, the Miquelet's hammer and frizzen are exposed, making it easier to maintain and repair.29

 

[mw0njm.]

gunlock filer


It was a skilled trade, a gunlock filer needing at least a five year apprenticeship.
The work involved in filing the smaller parts of the mechanism could be very difficult and delicate, requiring a high degree of precision.

 

[Mansnola]

The transition from flintlocks to percussion locks marked a major evolution in firearm technology. I’ve always found it interesting how regions like Birmingham were so pivotal in making parts, and the skilled trades behind those components. A while back, I visited a Coon Rapids MN gun store, and while browsing, I stumbled upon a collection of older firearms. Some had these intricate, old-school locks, and I couldn't help but appreciate the craftsmanship. It made me think about how much innovation went into each part, from the springs to the locks.

 

[Richard Dye]

gunlock filer


It was a skilled trade, a gunlock filer needing at least a five year apprenticeship.
The work involved in filing the smaller parts of the mechanism could be very difficult and delicate, requiring a high degree of precision.

The skil required to do this workaday incredibly high, particularly making multiple weapon mechanisms. In addition to the filing, the heat treatment and conditioning was to utmost care and skill!