A "brace of pistols" refers to a pair of pistols that are designed to be carried together. This term is often associated with historical firearms, particularly from the 17th to 19th centuries, when dueling was common. The pistols in a brace were typically matched in style and caliber, allowing a duelist to have a second shot if the first missed. In modern contexts, a brace of pistols can also refer to a set of firearms used for sport shooting or collection. Collectors often seek out pairs of pistols from notable manufacturers, such as Colt or Smith & Wesson, for their historical significance and craftsmanship.