Pan (weapon technology)
The pan (also known as powder pan , ignition pan ) is a bulge in front of or above the ignition hole in early firearms , which holds the igniter . In order to protect the igniter from moisture or being uncoupled before the shot, the pan of handguns is usually protected with a lid. Many flintlock types of pan lid is connected to a piece of metal to which the flint strikes. This ensures that the lid opens automatically when the shot is fired and the igniter is ignited. The rear wall of the pan is often raised to protect the shooter from flying sparks.
Pans are made of iron or brass. Iron pans have the disadvantage that they rust easily due to contact with the igniter in damp weather and are difficult to keep clean.
With the development of the percussion cap , the pan became obsolete.
The saying “have something on the pan” means willingness to perform and refers to the firearm that is ready to be fired.
literature
- Natale de Beroaldo Bianchini: Treatise on the fire and side guns , Verlag Hof- und Staats-Aerarial-Druckerey, 1829, pages 168-169 Google books