The Pistolet modèle 1733 was a

flintlock Flintlock is a general term for any firearm that uses a flint-striking lock (firearm), ignition mechanism, the first of which appeared in Western Europe in the early 16th century. The term may also apply to a particular form of the mechanism its ...

cavalry pistol, in service in French units starting from 1733. These Pistols were generally issued in pairs to Cavalry Units and Cavalry Officers (cuirassiers, hussars and uhlan lancers), In less quantity to Naval Officers and in uncommon cases to Infantry Officers. The modèle 1733 was the designation of the first standardized pistol in France. As a result of a standardization effort under Louis XV, who selected the pistol variant used in 1731 by the

Garde du Corps A ''Garde du Corps'' (French for lifeguard (military), lifeguard) is a military unit formed of Royal Guard, guards. A ''Garde du corps du roi, Garde du Corps'' was first established in France in 1445. From the 17th century onwards, the term was us ...

as the basis on which future pistols would be made, this variant would become the Modèle 1733. In general, many of these standard pistols shared several superficial qualities with their Musket pattern counterparts; including their Caliber of 0.69" (17.5mm) and many elements of their furnishings. Several iterative variants of this pistol were produced until the Modèle 1763 Pattern; which included some revolutionary changes. One of these additions the Modèle 1763 had compared to earlier Models was the use of a spring based barrel band system; similar to the type used by the Modèle 1763 musket pattern around the same time. This aided in disassembly and maintenance compared to earlier types. The Modèle 1766 was of a similar case, being similar to the modifications made to the musket pattern of the same year. Both the 1763 and 1766 Models became the most popular of all French Flintlock Pistols and remained so until the Modèle 1801 (An IX) was issued to the French Military. Due to the Failure of the 1777/1786 Pattern Pistol to please the French Soldiers, examples of the 1763 and 1766 Patterns were reissued to the troops until 1801.

Sources and references

{{DEFAULTSORT:Pistolet modele 1733 Pistols of France Single-shot pistols Black-powder pistols Napoleonic Wars weapons