This video delves into the history and specifics of the Maltese Flintlocks, specifically the Girard Mle 1733 Pistols utilized by the Order of St. John (Knights of Malta). It highlights their transformation from pilgrim protectors to Mediterranean corsairs and their reliance on European small arms. The focus is on a specific order of 2000 French Modele 1733 pattern flintlock handguns, including both long-barreled (300mm) and short-barreled (240mm) variants intended for naval and cavalry forces. The video also touches upon the pistols' capture by Napoleon's forces in 1798 and their subsequent transfer to British hands, noting the rarity of the long-barreled models today.
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