This style of muzzleloader dates back to the 17th century and
features a flintlock mechanism that produces sparks when a piece
of flint strikes its steel frizzen. The firing mechanism
consists of the following parts: A hard, fine-grained form of
quartz stone mounted in the hammer that creates a shower of
sparks when it strikes the steel frizzen. Part of the firing
mechanism that holds the flint. A piece of steel that is struck
by the flint to create sparks. The frizzen also covers the
priming charge in the Flash Pan. A small groove cut in the
firing mechanism to hold the priming charge. While filling the
flash pan with priming powder, tilt the gun slightly so that the
powder enters the touch hole. Once the Flash Pan is full, close
the Frizzen tightly. Located at the side of the barrel at the
edge of the Flash Pan. Safety First! If your muzzleloader has a
wooden ramrod, the ramrod can shatter under pressure, causing
injury. Always exercise caution when using a wooden ramrod, and
avoid using one that shows any