flashpan

A flashpan is a small, portable device used to create a burst of flame. It is typically composed of a shallow pan or dish, often made of metal, which holds a flammable material. Historically, flashpans were an integral part of early firearms, particularly matchlocks and flintlocks. In these firearms, a small amount of gunpowder was placed in the flashpan, which was positioned next to the barrel. When the firearm was discharged, a spark, either from a burning match or a flint striking steel, would ignite the powder in the flashpan, which in turn ignited the main charge in the barrel, firing the weapon.

Modern applications of flashpans are less common in firearms due to the development of more advanced ignition systems. However, they can still be found in some specialized pyrotechnic devices, stage magic illusions, and historical reenactments. The flammable material used can vary, but historically it was fine-grained gunpowder. The purpose of the flashpan was to ensure a reliable and quick ignition of the primary propellant. The design of the flashpan, including its size and proximity to the barrel, was crucial for the effective functioning of early firearms. Its operation relies on the principle of rapid combustion of a small amount of readily ignitable material to initiate a larger combustion.