Single-Shot Pistol
Specifications
- Type
- Handgun
- Origin
- Europe
- Era
- 16th–19th century
- Notable Users
- Cavalry officers, duelists, naval officers
- Epoch
- Modern Age
History
The single-shot pistol evolved from the wheellock and flintlock mechanisms of the 16th and 17th centuries. A compact, one-handed firearm that could be drawn and fired at close range, it transformed cavalry tactics and personal combat. Cavalrymen carried multiple loaded pistols into battle, firing them in sequence before closing with the sword. The pistol also became the weapon of the formal duel — the ritualized settling of disputes among the European aristocracy. Alexander Hamilton died from a pistol ball fired by Aaron Burr in 1804.
Significance
The single-shot pistol introduced the concept of the personal firearm — a weapon that could be concealed, carried at all times, and used with one hand. It democratized lethal force in a way that swords, which required training and strength, never could.
More from the Modern Age
12 weapons
54 Weapons. Five Epochs. One Poster.
The Single-Shot Pistol is one of 13 weapons from the Modern Age featured on the poster.
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