Edward Kenway’s Arsenal: How Many Pistols Could He Really Carry?

Edward Kenway, the charismatic pirate-turned-Assassin from Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, is renowned for his swashbuckling combat style. A key aspect of his combat prowess is his proficiency with pistols. The answer is up to four. Initially, Edward can carry two pistols, but through gameplay upgrades, he can wield a total of four flintlock pistols simultaneously, making him a formidable force in both ranged and melee engagements.

Edward Kenway: The Pistol-Packing Pirate Assassin

Edward Kenway’s ability to carry and effectively utilize four pistols distinguishes him from many other characters in the Assassin’s Creed universe. This isn’t just a cosmetic feature; it profoundly impacts gameplay, allowing for rapid-fire attacks and tactical advantages in combat.

Upgrading Your Arsenal

The ability to carry more than two pistols isn’t automatically available. Players must acquire crafting upgrades by hunting wildlife and using their hides to enhance Edward’s equipment. These upgrades are purchased from vendors in various towns and settlements throughout the game world. Specifically, you need to craft pistol holsters, adding one at a time until you reach the maximum capacity of four.

Gameplay Mechanics and Strategic Advantages

Having four pistols at his disposal allows Edward to unleash a devastating barrage of shots, quickly eliminating enemies or weakening tougher opponents. The combat system allows for:

• “Combo” Shots: Firing all four pistols in quick succession with a stylish spinning animation.
• Aimed Shots: Taking precise shots at specific targets, which is particularly useful for assassinating targets from a distance or targeting weak points on heavily armored enemies.

Historical Accuracy vs. Gameplay

While the game mechanics allow for a rapid-fire “combo,” it’s important to note that flintlock pistols were single-shot weapons. Each pistol had to be manually reloaded after each shot, a process that involved pouring gunpowder down the barrel, ramming a ball down with a rod, and priming the pan with powder. This reloading process would take a significant amount of time, making rapid firing impossible in reality. The game simplifies this for the sake of fluid and engaging gameplay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pistols in Black Flag

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Edward Kenway and the use of pistols in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.

1. What pistols does Edward Kenway use specifically?

The most iconic pistols associated with Edward are his Golden Flintlock Pistols. These are his personal firearms and are often featured in promotional materials and in-game cutscenes. While you can acquire and use other pistol types in the game, the Golden Flintlocks are his signature weapons.

2. Did real-world pirates carry multiple pistols?

Yes, it was common for pirates to carry multiple flintlock pistols into battle. The primary reason was the slow and cumbersome reloading process. Having multiple loaded pistols allowed them to maintain a continuous offensive in close-quarters combat. Figures like Blackbeard are known to have carried multiple pistols, although the exact number varies depending on the source.

3. Can other characters in the Assassin’s Creed universe carry four pistols?

While some characters, like Shay Cormac, are limited to two pistols, Edward Kenway’s ability to carry four is relatively unique. Later Assassin’s Creed games moved away from the multiple-pistol mechanic, focusing instead on other weapon types and combat styles.

4. How does reloading work in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag?

Oddly, in the game, Edward can only reload his pistols when all of them have been fired. This is a gameplay limitation, likely implemented to balance the power of having multiple firearms. You can’t reload individual pistols after each shot.

5. Is it historically accurate for Edward to use pistols for assassinations?

Yes, pistols were used for assassinations during the Golden Age of Piracy. While swords and daggers were more commonly associated with close-quarters combat, pistols provided a ranged option for eliminating targets from a distance.

6. How does Edward Kenway compare to other assassins in terms of combat skill?

Edward Kenway is often considered one of the most formidable assassins due to his pirate training and ruthless combat style. His ability to wield four pistols, combined with his swordsmanship and agility, makes him a dangerous opponent.

7. What is the “26 pistol rule” mentioned in the article?

The “26 pistol rule” refers to U.S. federal regulations concerning the classification of firearms. It primarily deals with short-barreled rifles (SBRs) and determines whether a firearm with a pistol brace is considered an SBR under the National Firearms Act (NFA). If a firearm has a barrel length of 16 inches or more and an overall length of 26 inches or more (with the stock closed), it generally does not fall under the NFA definition of an SBR.

8. Is Edward Kenway a real historical figure?

No, Edward Kenway is a fictional character created for the Assassin’s Creed franchise. However, he is inspired by the historical context of the Golden Age of Piracy and likely draws inspiration from real pirates of the era.

9. Does Edward Kenway have any weaknesses?

Yes, despite his combat prowess, Edward Kenway has weaknesses. His greed and impulsiveness often lead him into trouble and make him vulnerable to manipulation. This character flaw is a central aspect of his narrative arc in Black Flag.

10. How old is Edward Kenway in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag?

At the beginning of the game, Edward is in his late teens/early twenties, born in 1693 and the game starts in the 1710s. By the end of the game, he is in his early 30’s.

11. Is Edward Kenway’s Hidden Blade the same as other Assassins?

Initially, Edward Kenway stole his Hidden Blades. Most assassins have to undergo training and prove their dedication before receiving this weapon.

12. What other weapons does Edward Kenway use besides pistols?

Besides his pistols, Edward Kenway is proficient with dual swords, a Hidden Blade, smoke bombs, throwing knives, and a blowpipe with various darts.

13. What is a flintlock pistol?

A flintlock pistol is a single-shot firearm that uses a flint striking a steel frizzen to create a spark, igniting gunpowder and firing a projectile. They were commonly used in the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries.

14. Who is stronger, Edward Kenway or Ezio Auditore?

This is a debated topic among fans. Ezio is the better-trained Assassin with more refined skills. However, Edward is a more brutal and adaptable fighter due to his pirate background, making him a formidable opponent in any situation.

15. How many kills does Edward Kenway have in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag?

According to information, Edward Kenway is responsible for about 26 kills.

In conclusion, Edward Kenway’s ability to wield four pistols significantly enhances his combat effectiveness in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, providing players with strategic advantages and contributing to his reputation as one of the most skilled and dangerous assassins in the franchise. His unique blend of pirate tactics and assassin skills makes him a memorable and iconic character.

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