flashpan

A flashpan is a component of early firearms, specifically a small pan that held priming powder. This powder, when ignited, would fire the main charge in the barrel. The flashpan was a crucial part of ignition systems like the matchlock and flintlock.123

In the matchlock mechanism, a serpentine held a smoldering match that was brought down to ignite the powder in the flashpan. Later improvements included a hinged cover to protect the priming powder from the elements. The flintlock, which superseded the matchlock, used a piece of flint striking a steel frizzen to create sparks that ignited the powder in the flashpan. These mechanisms were essential for the development of portable firearms.23