by Torsten Lenk. Translated by G.A. Urquhart. Edited by J.F. Hayward. Softcover, 188 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". From the post as Director of the Swedish Armoury, Torsten Lenk traveled throughout Europe inspecting thousands of firearms in private collections, enabiling him to detail the construction, evolution, and decoration of the flilntlock from the period of its origin, the seventeenth century. Included are an illustrated section on definitions, terminology, and types of locks; descriptions of the flintlock's precursors, the "Mediterranean lock" and the Netherlands snaphance; a thorough discussion of French flintlocks; a comparison of the Thuraine and Le Hollandois style; and three comprehensive chapters on pattern books and decorations. With hundreds of photographs and illustrations, this reference is without equal for collectors, dealers, or owners or for anyone with an interest in weapons and their history. Heavily illustrated in black and white.