Duelling pistol
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Dueling pistols are pistols of identical appearance, reliability and accuracy that were used in a classical duel. They were often blackpowder single shot pistols.
The use of pistols in duels became popular in Britain and America during the mid-eighteenth century. Initially holster or travelling pistols where mainly used, but by the end of the century special purpose dueling pistols where being made. The dueling pistols of this time were sold in pairs usually in compartmentalised wooden cases along with a powder flask, rods for cleaning and loading, spare flints and a bullet mould.
The flintlock pistols of this time had a delay between pulling the trigger and the firing of the bullet. As such dueling pistols tended to have heavy barrels a solid grip and hair trigger. Special care was taken when moulding the bullets so as to ensure that there was no hollow part in them. The loading was also carefully undertaken.
See also
External links
- Duelling Pistols (http://duellingpistols.com)