Piilukkokivääri

The piilukkokivääri, also known as a flintlock rifle, is a type of firearm that uses a flintlock mechanism to ignite the propellant. This mechanism consists of a hammer with a piece of flint attached, which strikes a steel frizzen when the trigger is pulled. The impact creates sparks that ignite a priming powder in a flash pan, which in turn ignites the main charge of gunpowder in the barrel, firing the projectile.

Flintlock rifles were common from the early 17th century through the mid-19th century, preceding the widespread adoption of percussion cap firearms. They were widely used by military forces, hunters, and civilians across Europe and North America. The design of the piilukkokivääri varied, with different barrel lengths, stock designs, and ornamentation reflecting regional styles and intended uses. Some were smoothbore, firing round balls, while others were rifled, offering greater accuracy for conical projectiles.

The operation of a flintlock rifle involved several steps. The user would first pour gunpowder into the barrel, followed by a projectile and wadding. The flintlock mechanism would then be cocked, and a small amount of priming powder placed in the flash pan. Upon pulling the trigger, the hammer would fall, the flint would strike the frizzen, and the rifle would fire. While effective for its time, the flintlock mechanism was susceptible to misfires, especially in wet conditions. The development of the percussion cap ignition system in the early 19th century gradually led to the obsolescence of the flintlock rifle.