The information that follows gives the approximate date of invention and a graphic of each basic firearm ignition system. The animated graphics were designed and developed by Vik Nokhoudian. You may visit his web site HERE.

Sequence Of Events (single projectile shown)
1300's Cannon
1400's Match Lock
1500's Wheel Lock Note that Pyrite was normally used and Flint was only used as a last resort because it would wear the steel wheel prematurely.
1550's Snaphaunce
1600's Flintlock
1800's Percussion
1800's Cartridge (single projectile shown)

Gun Parts

Parts Of A Gun