The weapon itself, whether matchlock, wheel-lock, or even a cross-bow, would be a delight.

Some of the antique wheel-lock guns are really beautiful specimens of design.
The old powder-horns are often gems of workmanship--hunting scenes cut out in ivory, and the minutest detail of hoof or antler rendered with life-like accuracy.

How pleasant these carvings feel to the fingers! It is delightful to handle such weapons and such implements.
The matchlocks, too, are inlaid or the stocks carved.

There is slaughter in every line of our modern guns--mechanical slaughter.

But were I offered participation in the bloodiest battue ever arranged, or the freedom of an English forest or mountain tract, to go forth at any time untrammelled by attendant, but only to shoot with matchlock, wheel-lock, or cross-bow, my choice would be unhesitating.
There would be pleasure in winding up the lock with the spanner; pleasure in adjusting the priming; or with the matchlock in lighting the match.