snaphance

(ˈsnæpˌhɑːns; ˈsnæpˌhæns) ,

snaphaunce

snaphaunch

(Firearms, Gunnery, Ordnance & Artillery) a type of mechanism similar to a flintlock used to discharge a gun

Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014

References in periodicals archive

With the pan cover secured to prevent moisture from affecting the prime, the snaphance was ready for instant use.

SPARKING A REVOLUTION: SNAPHAUNCE AND MIQUELET: THE FLINTLOCK'S MOM AND DAD

It had obvious phallic overtones for Marston, who described himself in Certain Satires as a "snaphance satirist" (2.2).

Writing and revenge: John Marston's Histriomastix

Not only that, ignition systems could be wheellock, snaphance or flintlock.

Edgehill 1642: matchlock vs. flintlock: this early battle in the English Civil War was a severe test of weaponry and a learning experience for both sides

Ignition was usually via flintlock, but some snaphances and miquelets were also seen.

Beware of large-mouth brass: despite its somewhat bizarre appearance, the blunderbuss was a first-rate defensive and offensive firearm

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