Priming the pan befor loading the barrel?

[tom in nc]

Why is it advised to prime the pan on a matchlock first, but not on a flintlock?

 

[Flint62Smoothie]

If you've seen that advised ... that might be from old military drill manuals. FWIW I shoot a lot of matchlocks and snap/tinder locks and would never prime the pan 1st ...

 

[wiscoaster]

sorry, deleted, misread the OP

 

[tom in nc]

Actually, it's shown in most videos that show how to shoot matchlocks.

 

[TobJohn]

Actually, it's shown in most videos that show how to shoot matchlocks.

I think videos from Jamestown and the like are showing the historical method. Often, they are not using bullets (just a wad to simulate loading one), so much safer if something goes wrong.

 

[Pukka Bundook]

The historical and military way with a flintlock, (especially using cartridges) was to prime before loading Tom.

With a matchlock I am with Flint in post #2.

Thing is, with a flint, the same powder from the cartridge was used to prime, so it made much more sense to prime first, but with a matchlock, fine prime was kept separate so there really was no advantage to priming first.

all best,
R.

 

[trettie]

Actually, it's shown in most videos that show how to shoot matchlocks.

With a flintlock, if you prime first, you are depending on the integrity of the lock to hold the half-cock while you load. In the case of a matchlock, the ignition source is still in your hand, so the chance of an accidental discharge while loading is reduced. I’ve shot both ways with a matchlock, haven’t really noticed a difference in efficiency or safety.