Posted by Jerry in Idaho [69.59.83.175] on Friday, June 15, 2012 at 22:31:24 :
In Reply to: Re: Attempted power wagon theft posted by Gary Troxel [50.47.167.62] on Friday, June 15, 2012 at 18:48:47 :
I believe the expression goes back to the flintlock rifle era. The hammer had to be "locked" in open position, and then the powder and ball could be "loaded".
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