GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The flintlock pistol emerged in the early 17th century as a primary firearm for military and civilian use. Its design uses flint striking steel to ignite powder, offering a reliable ignition method for the era. Today, flintlock pistols serve mainly in historical reenactments and collectors' circles due to their vintage appeal.

Why It's a Top Choice

Simple ignition system for its time
Classic design favored by collectors
Widely used in early modern warfare
Highly customizable with period parts
Essential for historical reenactments

Key Variants

Kentucky Pistol

A favored frontier model, prized for accuracy and craftsmanship in late 18th century America.

Navy Pistol

Widely issued flintlock sidearm, optimized for naval warfare with robust construction.

Duelling Pistol

Precision-crafted for formal duels; emphasizes balance and trigger control.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Flintlock Pistol	Muskets	Wheel-lock Pistol
MSRP	$700 - $2,000 (replica market)	$800 - $2,500 (replica market)	$1,000 - $2,200 (replica market)
Capacity/Size	Single-shot, .50 to .65 caliber	Single-shot, larger caliber	Single-shot, .40 to .50 caliber
Weight	2 to 4 lbs	8 to 10 lbs (musket)	3 to 5 lbs
Optics-Ready	No	No	No
Trigger Type	Single-action flintlock	Single-action matchlock or flintlock	Wheel-lock mechanism
Notable Pro	Reliable ignition for its era	Effective mid-range infantry firearm	More complex but quicker ignition
Notable Con	Slow reload; weather sensitive	Heavy and slow rate of fire	Higher maintenance complexity

Best Use Cases

Historical reenactment
Antique firearms collection
Black powder shooting sports
Education on firearm history
Period-authentic demonstrations

FAQs

Can I use modern powder in a flintlock pistol?

Modern black powder substitutes should only be used following manufacturer guidelines to avoid damage or unsafe pressure levels.

What is the typical effective range of a flintlock pistol?

Effective range is typically 25 to 50 yards, varying by barrel length and shooter skill.

How does the flintlock ignition system work?

A piece of flint strikes steel, creating sparks that ignite powder in the pan, firing the main charge.

FLINTLOCK PISTOL for Sale