Linked from
The 21 pages that link to Matchlock, each with the reason it gives.
FirearmBroader topic: It mechanized ignition and reduced the need to apply a flame by hand.
Black powderBroader topic: Matchlocks made black powder practical in portable firearms.
MuzzleloaderBroader topic: Matchlocks were among the earliest practical muzzleloading firearms.
Hand cannonBroader topic: It mechanized the external flame that hand cannon users applied by hand.
ArquebusBroader topic: The arquebus commonly used this mechanism to ignite its gunpowder.
MusketBroader topic: The matchlock was an early mechanism for firing muskets.
GunsBroader topic: It replaced direct hand ignition with a trigger-operated mechanism.