[Raf]

The most significant thing about this find might well turn out to be the humble lump of pyrites itself. Assuming that is that pyrites was unearthed with the gun . Pyrites varies hugely in its form and virtually nothing is known about the type of pyrites used in wheelock firearms . Or in what form it was used. Almost looks in this example as if it has been roughly shaped by grinding ? It would be good if a mineralogist could analyse the sample ; test its hardness and comment on its crystalline structure. May sound like silly detail but the quality of pyrites has a significant effect on the operational efficiency of wheelock firearms and the assumption is that specific types were sought for their superior fire striking qualities .