How Fast Does A Flintlock Fire

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pr.piburn

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This is me 20 years ago shooting my Flintlock.
The video is slowed down a little so as you can
see it better. In actual use it is faster than the
video shows. There is no delay in my rifle.

anigif-5.gif
 
I can just stare at those devices making fire for a long time! Thanks for creating them.
 
i have heard it said a properly tuned flint fires as fast as a percussion gun.is this true? I am new to flints and for me its not so at this point.

George
 
No, a flintlock is measurably slower than a percussion. Percussions run around .0150 to .0200 seconds. The fastest flintlock I timed was an original Manton at .0277 if memory serves. Most flints run between .0350 to .0500 seconds. However, a well managed flintlock (at say .0400) is a joy to shoot.
I think I have a percussion in slow motion among the flintlocks on my web site.
Regards,
Pletch
 
thanks for your info Pletch.The same internet forum guru also claimed that a flint is as fast as shot cartridge guns!I really enjoy the work you did.

George
 
damron said:
thanks for your info Pletch.The same internet forum guru also claimed that a flint is as fast as shot cartridge guns!I really enjoy the work you did.

George
There are a lot of "claims" made by people who don't have a clue. Even side hammer percussion guns are not nearly as fast as a bolt action with a striker travel of only 1/4" or less. You can't judge it by ear or by eye but an experienced shooter can tell the difference by feel. You feel the trigger break, you feel the recoil and with experience you can judge the interval between. I can notice the difference between the long hammer fall of a single action revolver versus the shorter, snappier hammer fall of a double action or auto pistol. And the difference does matter, bullseye competitors know that all else being equal you will shoot better with a faster lock time.
 
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