For proper ignition, the flint must be sharp, the touchhole cleared, and the bore and lock must be free of oil or moisture. A patch or tow worm should be used to swab the barrel, and the lock should be wiped off with a dry cloth. Using the vent pick, make sure the touchhole is free from any obstructions. Check the flint. If its dull and not throwing a good shower of sparks, knap a new edge on it. Replace the flint if necessary. You want the priming to be away from the touchhole so that the once ignited, the flash will be able to shoot through the touchhole into the main charge in the barrel. If the priming powder is up against the touchhole, it may act more like a fuse to the main charge and give a slower ignition.