wheel lock

Meaning

A mechanical firing mechanism used in early firearms, developed in the early 16th century, in which a spring-driven steel wheel spins against a piece of pyrite to create sparks that ignite the gunpowder. It was a significant improvement over the matchlock because it allowed for more reliable and safer ignition, especially in windy or damp conditions, and paved the way for later flintlock designs.

Examples

• The wheel lock was a revolutionary invention that made firearms more practical for cavalry.
• Collectors prize wheel lock pistols for their intricate metalwork and historical significance.