78 DETONATING SYSTEM. 



barrel, but if snapt upon the caps when the gun is unloaded, it drives 

 the detonating gas into the barrels, which creates rust ; and if done 

 \vithout the caps the works are liable to be injured, by reason of the 

 cocks meeting no resistance in their fall, as in flint-locks. 



The pegs should by no means be used after the holes are worn 

 large by repeated firing, as it will weaken the force of the gun, and 

 damage the lock. 



Directions for cleaning Guns. 



1. Place the breech end of the barrels about three inches deep in 

 a bucket with cold water; then, after wetting the sponge, cloth, or 

 tow, introduce the rod into the barrels, and work it well ; then apply 

 the wire brush attached to the cleaning-rod with some clean hot 

 water, which will take out all the lead in the operation. This should 

 be invariably attended to, as it is well known washing only will not 

 remove the lead. 



2. Wipe the rod and outside of the barrels dry, and set the latter 

 upright, muzzle downwards, for two minutes, to drain, after which 

 rub them out perfectly dry. 



3. Wipe the barrels out clean, then pass an oiled rag down the 

 inside, and rub over the outside ; leave them a little oily, which will 

 prevent rust. 



The use of cloth is preferred, as not subjecting gentlemen to 

 the serious accidents that have happened from leaving tow in the 

 chamber. 



Brass, being in its nature softer than iron, allows of the brush 

 being used without the possibility of injury to the barrels. 



" So much for" Lancaster and all very right; 

 except that I prefer a little fine sand or brickdust to 

 the wire brush. 



" A man convinced against his will 

 Is of the same opinion still." 



LOADING. 



As I before observed, you are obliged, in your own 

 defence, to load a detonater lighter than a flint-gun ; 



