Kentucky Rifle vs Wheellock Pistol

1730s–1820s

1500–1680

Unknown — individually handcrafted by gunsmiths

Thousands (handcrafted individually)

1,500-1,800mm (59-71 in)

450-600 mm (18-24 in) typical

1,000-1,220mm (40-48 in)

250-400 mm (10-16 in) typical

4.5-5.4 kg (10-12 lb)

1.5-2.5 kg (3.3-5.5 lb) typical

Single-shot, muzzle-loading

Single-shot, muzzle-loaded

Flintlock, single-shot, muzzle-loading, rifled

Wheellock ignition, smoothbore

Double-set triggers on many examples

Single-stage, linked to wheel release

Blade front, notch or buckhorn rear — iron sights common

Fixed front bead sight