Earlier this month, I wrote a piece about turning single-shot, percussion muzzleloaders into primitive “repeaters” through the concept of superposed charges. The arm shown in that article featured a percussion ignition system that had been modified after it was originally created.
It’s important to note that superposed charges were not only a means of modification. Sometimes the guns were initially made to function like that.
This lock above features two different ignition systems. First, the wheel lock mechanism (shown on the right) would be discharged. With that load now out of the way, the second load could be discharged with the doglock mechanism (shown on the left).
This lock features two flintlock mechanisms. Just like the one above, the charge from the mechanism on the right-side of the photo was fired first, followed by the charge from the mechanism on the left-side of the photo.
(Lock courtesy of NRA Museums)
Logan Metesh is a firearms historian and consultant who runs High Caliber History LLC. Click here for a free 3-page download with tips about caring for your antique and collectible firearms.