I am writing a paper on the weaponry of pirate past and present. its been a bit difficult finding credible sources for my information. I specifically need sources for information on flintlock pistols. I really need something I can cite. So historians, can you aid me in my search for credible informations on the internets?
A good book I recommend about pirates and their weaponry is by one of my favorite pirate/privateer historians Bennerson Little:
It's got a chapter on the different weapons, including period specific firearms that at least European and Caribbean pirates used, and most importantly the tactics and methods they were used with. That's very important to understanding the role of these weapons and their value in pirate culture and history.
As for the overall history of flintlock pistols, I couldn't tell you, but the book I provided is VERY specific to their use in freebooting and is very respected in the field.
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To add what was already posted you may find this interesting:
The Buccaneer's Realm: Pirate Life on the Spanish Main, 1674-1688 by Benerson Little
There is a section on flintlocks and weapons starting at the bottom of page 43.