pinfire

[ pin-fahyuhr ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

of or relating to a cartridge fitted with a pin that, when struck by the hammer of the firearm, causes the cartridge to explode.
of or relating to a firearm that uses such a cartridge.

Origin of pinfire¹

First recorded in 1850–55; pin + fire

She had been killed by a bullet which fitted Nepcote's revolver, which was a pinfire weapon.

He signed to Señora Martinez, who brought the old pinfire gun and gave it to Kit.

He knew no arguments they would admit, and his only protection was Don Erminio's old pinfire gun.

On our arrival, the only weapons the guard possessed were ancient pinfire rifles, firing a huge lump of lead.

April 23, 2024inveterate

[in-vet-er-it ]

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