Breech question

[BigLead]

I was reading the posts here and came across some terminology that I'm not familiar with.  What is the difference between a 'patent' breech and any other breech?  I built a 'Hawken' from a kit back in '80-'81. It was an Ozark Mtn, .52 , copy of Jim Bridger's gun. (He prob didn't carry a .52) anyway, I've shot that rifle all these years and never heard of a 'patent' breech.  I just acquired a couple of TC's, one in .58 converted to musket cap and the other a .50 flint.  Someone school me on 'patent' breech.  Is that what's in my rifles?  Did TC make their flint locks or are they foreign made?  I know that you can't get parts for them anymore.  If it breaks, I'll be getting a L&R #3.  thanks for the replies.

[EC121]

A patent breech has the nipple seat and breech plug made as one piece.  A drum type breech has a separate breech plug and a drum for the nipple screwed into the side of the barrel.  Patent breeches are usually made in a set with the tang on the standing breech and a hook on the barrel part of the breech that fits into the standing breech.
    Go to one of the online parts dealers and look up breech plugs and drums.  There will be pictures of both types of parts.

[BigLead]

Thank you so much for the reply.  I am familiar with both types, I just never knew the correct nomenclature.

[JNG3]

T/C made their own cap and flintlocks. Investarms of Italy is similar in looks only.