at full cock

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Cock \Cock\, n. [It. cocca notch of an arrow.]
   1. The notch of an arrow or crossbow.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. The hammer in the lock of a firearm.
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   {At cock}, {At full cock}, with the hammer raised and ready
      to fire; -- said of firearms, also, jocularly, of one
      prepared for instant action.

   {At half cock}. See under {Half}.

   {Cock feather} (Archery), the feather of an arrow at right
      angles to the direction of the cock or notch. --Nares.
      [1913 Webster]