Centre fire percussion ignition

[Feltwad]

During the percussion period saw many gun makers come up with different patents to improve and quicken the percussion ignition two examples known has the centre fire system were by makers Bentleys of Liverpool and James Rowntree of Barnard Castle UK Both patents directed the cap ignition straight to the main powder charge by a straight flash hole and not like the the ordinary percussion on which the flash channel is angled to the left or right side of the nipple housing Enclosed are a couple of images showing this patent
Feltwad

Rowntree

patent

Bentleys Patent

 

[Notchy Bob]

Very interesting!

I think, though, that brothers Jacob and Samuel Hawken were thinking the same thing. As I understand it, the threaded shank of the Hawken patent breech was pretty short, maybe half an inch. The flash hole was drilled straight from the center of the breech face up at an angle to the base of the nipple seat. Neither powder nor flash had to go "around a corner."

They may have gotten the idea from British guns, though. I believe both Hanson and Baird acknowledged the influence of British gun design on products coming from the Hawken shop. The Hawken brothers were progressive thinkers and keen competitors in the firearms market. If they saw a good idea and an efficient way to incorporate it, they would use it.

Thanks, Feltwad, for introducing another interesting historical topic!

Notchy Bob

 

[ord sgt]

Hopkins and Allen under hammer rifles have a direct fire solution. A straight line of fire from the cap to the powder charge.

 

[Rudyard]

Dear Feltwad The tubes of a Central fire are over in Brough couldn't carry them might recover one day they where a bit down but restorable. No other parts seemed to be with it but chances are fair it was a Barnard Castle maker or retailor . Was in a junk pile in his shed .
Regards Rudyard

 

[Feltwad]

Dear Feltwad The tubes of a Central fire are over in Brough couldn't carry them might recover one day they where a bit down but restorable. No other parts seemed to be with it but chances are fair it was a Barnard Castle maker or retailor . Was in a junk pile in his shed .
Regards Rudyard

That is interesting I take it is your friend .
Feltwad

 

[Rudyard]

Yes Dave Brooks find him through the mini horses, Give him a bell or pop in if your over there mention I was there .I should write, when I do ile mention it I doubt he will ever make it up and I don't expect too .
Cheers Rudyard

 

[Feltwad]

Yes Dave Brooks find him through the mini horses, Give him a bell or pop in if your over there mention I was there .I should write, when I do ile mention it I doubt he will ever make it up

Cannot find him will send you a PM
Feltwad