Manual

11
Make sure the flint is aligned in the jaws perfectly square, so
that the edge of the flint is perfectly horizontal across the
face of the frizzen. This will ensure maximum contact of the
entire flint edge with the face of the frizzen.
When the flint is well secured in the jaws, bevel down (see diagram), you will get maximum surface con-
tact with the frizzen when the flint strikes the face of the frizzen. The higher the initial contact, the more
surface area is used to create the sparks. The more sparks there are, the better the ignition potential.
2. After the flint is securely locked in place, trim off the excess leather around both the top and bottom
jaws of the lock.
3. Make sure the surface of the frizzen, the pan, flint, and the leather cushion is free of any oil or lubri-
cant, and as dry as possible. Never wipe down these parts with any type of lubricant. If, in the process of
cleaning your rifle, a lubricant comes in contact with one or all of these parts, use a good degreaser to
remove this oil. Dry is the key to good ignition.
4. Sharp flints are a must.
5. The ignition time of a flint lock is slower than a cap lock. Hold your sight picture steady, despite that
“flash” that is going on in the pan. Its a test of true marksmanship to remain on target during the ignition
of the priming powder. A flinch at this time will mean you are off target when the main charge goes off.
6. Use your touch hole pick after each shot. When the flint lock discharges, powder and fouling is also
blown out the touch hole. This debris must be cleared before loading the next projectile. A partially or
totally plugged hole will result in a misfire or “flash in the pan”.
7. Always wear eye protection and hearing protection. Protect your arms from flying particles as well as
by wearing a shirt with long sleeves. Those wearing long hair or beards should use extra caution when
firing a flint lock. A flint lock can torch hair.
Bevel Down
Maximum Contact Area
Frizzen
Closed
Frizzen
Open
Top View Of Flint in Jaws
F
lint should be at 90
0
angle to the frizzen
a
nd should have
b
etween 1/16" & 1/8"
clearance with 
h
ammer in half-cock
p
osition.
F
rizzen
9
0
0
Flint
J
aw
T
rim Leather