matchlock

[ mach-lok ]

/ ˈmætʃˌlɒk /

an old form of gunlock in which the priming was ignited by a slow match.

a hand gun, usually a musket, with such a lock.

Origin of matchlock

First recorded in 1630–40; match¹ + lock¹

Swords and creeses were drawn, and stout adherents were not wanting with spear and matchlock to support their respective leaders.

The Highlands of Ethiopia |William Cornwallis Harris
The Pombo next took a matchlock, which he rested on his victim's forehead and then discharged upward.

An Explorer's Adventures in Tibet |A. Henry Savage Landor
The crossbow and the matchlock had supplanted the longbow when Columbus sailed for the New World.

Hunting with the Bow and Arrow |Saxton Pope
They affirm that he shoots an arrow very skilfully, and that he handles with great dexterity the lance and the matchlock.

Travels in Tartary, Thibet, and China |Evariste Regis Huc

“We can sell our lives dearly, at least,” said Avery, looking to his matchlock.

Robin Tremayne |Emily Sarah Holt

matchlock

/ (ˈmætʃˌlɒk) /

an obsolete type of gunlock igniting the powder by means of a slow match

a gun having such a lock