Definition of "lock-string" [lock-string]

• A cord so attached to the hammer of the lock of a cannon that by pulling it the hammer is made to strike on a percussion primer and so fire the gun. (noun)

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

• "These, when in good order, are not apt to fail if the lock-string be properly pulled; as, however, a slight deterioration may interfere with the regularity of salutes, the precaution of dropping a few grains of gunpowder into the vent will be found effectual."
• "The men should be practised at unloaded guns, in placing the primers, both percussion and friction, properly, and in pulling the lock-string so as to insure their explosion, until this very essential knowledge and skill have been perfectly attained."
• "Before firing, he is to throw his hand well up as a signal for the men to "drop tackles," and is to give the word "fire" when he pulls the lock-string."