thumbstall

• A difference of opinion being entertained among artillerists with regard to the utility of stopping the vent, the continuance of the practice, as directed in the text, is recommended The thumbstall has been made of various materials, but its use is somewhat inconvenient for the Gun Captain, and he cannot feel that the vent is stopped. —  Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition.
• "I thank ye," she said heartily, and pressing down the thumbstall of the latch, went in. —  Sir Gibbie
• Sail-trimmer, and Pumpman; a primed candle for each battle-lantern; a thumbstall and vent-guard for the 1st and 2d Captains of each gun. —  Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition.
• No. 1, Commands; sees his gun cleared and cast loose; circles cleared and swept; tackles hooked; levers shipped; lock and sights in place; elevating apparatus, pivot-bolts, and compressors in working order; takes off lock-cover and hands it to 23, who lays it clear of circle: provides himself with waist-belt and primers, priming-wire, boring-bit, and thumbstall; and sees that all the gear and implements are ready for use, and the men at their respective stations. —  Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition.
• The thumbstall has been made of various materials, but its use is somewhat inconvenient for the Gun Captain, and he cannot feel that the vent is stopped. —  Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition.

Allen's Synonyms and Antonyms