Dana M. Hague wrote:
On Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:59:28 -0800 (PST), "
wrote:

The purpose of such a weapon was not defense but a means of feeding
yourself....last night I stumbled upon what
may be a suitable substitute: A black-powder pistol. (!??)

There are some pretty significant disadvantages as well. Reloading
takes time, bad weather can be a problem (the old expression "keep
your powder dry" isn't just an expression), and the knockdown/stopping
power is considerably less than a modern weapon. Then there's the
risk of chain fires if you don't slob grease over the loads.

That only holds for revolvers, not single shots. One thing many
people miss is that moisture can get into the chamber(s) from
condensation. For best reliability the firearm needs to be reloaded
every day. Gunfighters did this for that reason.

Dan, U.S. Air Force, retired