An introduction to Flintlock guns, advice needed.

[Sir Boniface Harrison]

Dear friends, I require a little advice on a gun I have seen today which is for sale. My intention - eventually - is to obtain a flintlock musket or rifle to accompany my percussion guns on the rack. The question is, would this pistol be a good introduction to flintlock shooting and maintainance? The price is 320 Euros (about 350 dollars). Here are the details:
'

Brand: Pedersoli​

Model: Kentucky​

Item Condition: Pre-owned​

Caliber: 44​

TTB nothing to complain about or report, TBE . Heavy and thick barrel. Soft trigger, 2 notches. Octagonal barrel. Firm springs. Perfect working condition, almost new must have had no or very little use. The flint left little trace on the frizzen. No damage to the stock. Finely rifled barrel, dusty but because it was sitting on a cabinet. To be cleaned. Beautiful walnut stock. Italian made, hallmark of Gardonne AC (1977). Not very visible. Good and solid old manufacture from a company that has proven itself (especially at the time).

 

[wiscoaster]

A Pedersoli Kentucky would be a fine choice for a first flintlock pistol. The price is appropriate for a used item. I think you should jump on it. Obviously it's calling out to you.

 

[Sir Boniface Harrison]

A Pedersoli Kentucky would be a fine choice for a first flintlock pistol. The price is appropriate for a used item. I think you should jump on it. Obviously it's calling out to you.

Thank you for your sage advice. I have taken the plunge and bought it! Delivery in 2 days!

 

[Loyalist Dave]

Thank you for your sage advice. I have taken the plunge and bought it! Delivery in 2 days!

So just understand that ALL flintlocks have a quirk or two. Something odd in the way that they reliably function. No two are quite alike, even if they have sequential serial numbers from a factory, or were made together by a builder. When it arrives and you try it out, I'm sure the numerous flint shooters will be able to help you sort out any specific problems.

LD

 

[CyrusP]

I had that exact gun in .38 smoothbore. Sold it here. Great gun! Enjoy it!

 

[Sir Boniface Harrison]

Still awaiting delivery!

 

[Old Shepherd]

I have that very same pistol and I enjoy it very much. The only criticism I have for it, is the pan is very shallow. I get the best ignition when I use FFFFG in the pan. Other than that, I think you will enjoy it. About 30 grains of FFFG under a patched round ball makes mine shoot well with light recoil.
I hope you enjoy your new pistol.
Old Shepherd

 

[Sir Boniface Harrison]

I have that very same pistol and I enjoy it very much. The only criticism I have for it, is the pan is very shallow. I get the best ignition when I use FFFFG in the pan. Other than that, I think you will enjoy it. About 30 grains of FFFG under a patched round ball makes mine shoot well with light recoil.
I hope you enjoy your new pistol.
Old Shepherd

It arrived an hour ago! Good strong springs and a nice healthy spark. As you say, the pan does look very shallow...