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At the start of the duel, it should be determined which type of pistol duel they wish to perform - a simultaneous duel, or a duel of turns. For a duel of turns, a coin is tossed to see which duellist shoots first.
Both duellists choose their weapons. Usually the offender chooses first. The seconds then check the weapons to make sure they are suitably functional.
The seconds then pace out the distance between the duellists. The standard distance is 10 paces from a middle point. Usually after pacing, the second will place a sword as a marker for where the duellist should stand. The number of paces can vary with the severity of the offence - becoming an increasingly shorter distance. Any offence that is so minor that the paces would be more than 15 in number is not worth duelling over. Once the duellists have reached their marks, they turn side-on.
The offended party may declare the duel over at any time, even if the conditions of the duel have not been met (such as first blood, or wounding).
Both duellists raise their guns. The arbitrator tells them when to fire. If both parties miss, the offended party may call for another shot, and if both parties miss then, a third time.
Chalices (Hearts)
- Stomach and chestCoins (Diamonds)
- Head, shoulder or firing armThe duellist who won the toss raises his gun while the other duellist prepares to receive the blow.