What is contained in the flash pan of a flintlock muzzleloader?

The flash pan of a flintlock muzzleloader contains priming powder. Priming powder is a fine-grained, highly ignitable gunpowder that is specifically designed to ignite quickly when struck by a spark from the flint. When the flint strikes the frizzen, it creates a spark that ignites the priming powder in the flash pan. This ignition then travels through the touch hole to ignite the main charge in the barrel of the firearm.

Using the correct type of powder in the flash pan is crucial for the reliable function of a flintlock. Priming powder is formulated to ignite easily and produce a quick flash, which is essential for the effective firing sequence of the muzzleloader. Other types of gunpowder, such as black powder, are used in the main charge of the gun but are not suitable for the flash pan due to their coarser granulation and slower ignition rate.