Priming

in gunnery, the train of powder that is laid, from the opening of the vent, along the gutter or eiuatael on the upper part of the breech of the gun; which, when fired, eonveys the flame to the vent, by which it is further communicated to the charge, in order to fire the piece. This operation is only used on shipboard at the proof, and sometimes in garrison; for, on all other occasions, tubes are used for that purpose.