How Do You Spell PERCUSSION CAP?

1. A percussion cap refers to a small and detachable metal cap that is used to ignite the charge in a firearm. It is primarily designed to provide a quick and reliable means of igniting the gunpowder or other explosive materials contained in the firearm's barrel, ultimately leading to the firing of a projectile. The cap consists of a hollow cylinder with a closed end that contains a small amount of impact-sensitive explosive material, such as fulminate of mercury.

   In practical terms, the percussion cap is placed onto a small metal tube known as a nipple, which is integral to the firearm's lock mechanism. When the trigger of the firearm is pulled, the hammer strikes the percussion cap, causing the fulminate of mercury to explode. This ignition creates a rapid and controlled flame that is subsequently transmitted through the nipple's hollow portion, ultimately reaching the main charge within the barrel. The force generated by the exploding gunpowder propels the projectile forward.

   Percussion caps revolutionized firearm technology by providing a more reliable and efficient means of ignition compared to earlier systems such as flintlocks. They were widely used from the early 19th century until the development of self-contained cartridges in the late 19th century. Even though percussion cap firearms are now considered historical artifacts or collector's items, they played a significant role in military conflicts, hunting, and the advancement of firearms technology during their era.

2. A small copper cap having a layer of detonating powder, which, when placed on the nipple of a gun, explodes by percussion.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PERCUSSION CAP

The word "percussion cap" originated in the early 19th century and comes from a combination of two words: "percussion" and "cap".

The term "percussion" comes from the Latin word "percussio", which means "a striking", or "a blow". It entered the English language in the late medieval period, originally used to refer to the action of striking or hitting one object against another.

The word "cap" has its roots in the Latin word "cappa", which simply meant "a cape" or "a covering". Over time, it came to be used metaphorically to refer to a cover or a small hat-like object.

When combined, the word "percussion cap" refers to a small metal cap used in firearms as an ignition device.

Similar spelling word for PERCUSSION CAP