The following selection of ignition systems in firearms are sorted by chronological order.
I. External ignition (The ignition system is separate from the ammunition.)
- Matchlock: A burning match is mechanically brought into contact with the priming powder.
- Wheellock: A rotating steel wheel produces sparks against pyrite to ignite the priming powder.
- Flintlock: A flintstone strikes steel to produce sparks that ignite the priming powder.
II. Internal ignition (The ignition system is integrated into the ammunition.)
- Needle-Fire System: A firing needle penetrates the cartridge to ignite the primer inside it.
- Rimfire: A firing pin hits the rim of the cartridge base to ignite the primer inside it.
- Centerfire: A firing pin hits the center of the cartridge base to ignite the primer inside it.