Maryland Council of Safety Revolutionary Flintlock

Published on November 20, 2014
Duration: 6:30

This guide details the loading and firing procedure for the Maryland Committee of Safety Flintlock Pistol, a rare Revolutionary War-era firearm. It emphasizes the unique traceability of these arms due to organized procurement and inspection by figures like Thomas Ewing. The video, presented by Ian McCollum, highlights the pistol's flintlock mechanism, single-shot capacity, and its dual use as a club.

Quick Summary

The Maryland Committee of Safety Flintlock Pistol (c. 1777) is historically significant for its organized, traceable production during the Revolutionary War, unlike most handmade arms of the period. Made at Samuel Boone's manufactory and inspected by Thomas Ewing, only two are known to exist. It features a flintlock mechanism, iron hardware, and a club-like butt.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction to Maryland Committee of Safety
  2. 01:05Traceability and Inspection
  3. 03:25Manufacturing Details
  4. 04:02Flintlock Mechanism Demonstration
  5. 05:06Physical Features and Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Maryland Committee of Safety Flintlock Pistols historically significant?

These pistols are significant because they are uniquely traceable due to a state-sponsored, organized procurement process during the Revolutionary War, unlike most handmade firearms of the era. Only two are known to exist.

Who manufactured the Maryland Committee of Safety Flintlock Pistols?

The Maryland Committee of Safety Flintlock Pistols were made at Samuel Boone's 'gun manufactory,' with Peter Engel serving as the head of works. Inspector Thomas Ewing verified their quality.

How does the flintlock mechanism work on this pistol?

A flint strikes a steel frizzen, creating sparks that ignite fine powder in the pan. This ignites the main charge in the barrel, firing the projectile. The process involves priming the pan and seating the ball with a ramrod.

What are the key physical features of the Maryland Committee of Safety Flintlock Pistol?

This single-shot pistol features a flintlock action, iron hardware, a wooden ramrod, and an enlarged butt with a metal cap that could be used as a club. Serial number '434' and inspector marks are present.

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