Rear sights on Pre 1800 Flintlock pistol?

[Bnewberry]

I am embarking on a flintlock pistol build. Octagon to round barrel, small Queen Anne lock. I am not copying a particular gun, and do not have plans. In my head I am trying for something that wouldn’t be out of place for a pre 1800 American pistol.

The pictures and descriptions I can find show either no rear sight, or a simple blade either integral to the breech tang, or in a small dovetail just forward of the lock.

What are the pros and cons to either style?

 

[Stophel]

If it's a rifled pistol (which, in itself, would be pretty rare), front and rear sights would not be out of the ordinary. For a smoothbored pistol, a rear sight would definitely be uncommon..... even front sights are not always found on them.

 

[Bnewberry]

This is rifled, perhaps the next one will be a smoothbore....if this one goes well.

 

[tenngun]

It wasn’t until late eighteenth century the sport of target shooting with a pistol became a thing. Pistols were man killers and close range at that. Pistol dualing it was considered bad taste to aim until the nineteenth century. An self defense pistol or gun used on the battlefield was designed to be shot at feet and not yards. Sights just weren’t important.

 

[Bnewberry]

Points well made! My concession to practicality is that this pistol will be used for targets, so I do want sights.