Hello Folks, Question on Period Pistol

Zorro

I am new here, as you can tell, I am a reenactor and would like some information on pistols that might go with my persona. Yes, I know it\'s silly to dress up as Zorro for some people, but it gives the kids around the malls we visit a real charge. Sort of gives me a charge as well. I am occasionally asked the question about muzzle loading pistols of the period and have to admit I know little about them. I am considering the purchase of one and would like to know what style would be best in line for a Zorro costume, and more general information so when asked questions, I can respond with some intelligence. Thanks!

allen griggs

In what years did Zorro perform his deeds?

Zorro

Thank you for your reply! I think the time frame of 1800 to 1830 would be best. Maybe Spanish or Mexican pistols in this period. I know I cannot afford a real one, so perhaps reproductions?

allen griggs

You are right; you wouldn't want to mess with a real one.
Here is a link to Dixie Gun Works. This Harper's Ferry pistol was developed in 1804 as I recall. As you can see it is a beautiful pistol. It is a flintlock. If you were doing an outdoor show, it would be an easy matter to load it with a blank load, that would really impress the kids.
This gun sells for $500.
If you look around there on the Dixie site, under flintlock muzzleloading pistols, you will see lots of these guns. Any of these flintlocks could have been found in California in 1810.
The Charleville pistol was French. I don't know if they have a Spanish pistol per se.
Another one you could use would be the Pedersoli Kentucky pistol. It costs $250. It is also a beautiful pistol and is correct for the period.
Another good looking little pistol is the French AN IX pistol. It was made from 1801 to 1809. With the French presence in New Orleans, no doubt some of these pistol made their way to California during the time of Zorro. Costs $475.
You will find all of these pistols to be well made, and even more beautiful in reality than they are in these photos. They are made to be fired, and any would be easy to load with a blank charge.

http://www.dixiegunworks.com/popup_image.php?pID=947

http://www.dixiegunworks.com/default.php?cPath=22_92_187_188

sheepdip

http://www.replicagunsswords.com/weapons_gallery/product.php?productid=1280&cat=87&page=2

http://www.by-the-sword.com/acatalog/images/FD1023.jpg

http://netlinkenterprises.com/replicas/proddetail.php?*=1243

http://www.netlinkenterprises.com/replicas/proddetail.php?*=47-1102

http://www.netlinkenterprises.com/replicas/products.php?cat=33

http://www.netlinkenterprises.com/replicas/products.php?cat=36

Zorro

Hey, thanks guys. But with some of the expense of even the replicas, I am shocked! Maybe I should just buy a Beretta 92FS and tell the kids this is what Zorro used! Just joking. Man, those are some good links. Many thanks!