Side mechanics of a caplock rifle.
An animated diagram of a caplock while being fired.
The caplock mechanism, often referred to simply as caplock or in European countries percussion lock, was the final firing mechanism to be used for a musket, succeeding the flintlock. It was invented by Scotsman Alexander John Forsyth and patented in 1807. It used a special ignition device called a percussion cap, which contained a shock-sensitive explosive substance called mercury fulminate. Over the years, it was improved upon many times, to further improve its efficiency in battle. However, the mass adoption of caplock weapons happened during the 1840s. It was the primary weapon ignition system used in rifles during the American Civil War, by both Union and Confederate soldiers. It was eventually rendered obsolete by cartridges, which each contain explosive material themselves along with the bullet.
The caplock was very simple. After the weapon was fired, the wielder loaded powder down the barrel, along with a projectile. He then loaded a percussion cap into the small opening, or nipple, on the side and pulled back the hammer. After this was done, the wielder pulled the trigger, releasing the hammer on the cap, making the cap explode. Then the flames from the cap would be guided down the tube hole it was on, into the barrel, igniting the powder, and shooting the projectile.
Percussion caps were not only used in muzzle loader type weapons; they were also used in early Colt revolvers and some breech-loading firearms. The caplock mechanism was the last firing mechanism to be featured in muzzle-loading firearms. it was the quickest firing mechanism of its time.
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