Firearms definitely exist. Their true state is up in the air, but from what I've seen:
Garleans follow the fantasy basis of Magitek, mechanics with fudged workings that are McGuffined simply by saying: Magic does it. It makes it difficult to gauge however I'd place them at: Late Percussion Cap styled weaponry.
Personally picturing their weaponry with mechanisms similar to a late era revolver: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colt_Army_Model_1860
With the same type of ammunition utilizing some form of advanced paper cartridge (alchemical magitek thing) or an early form of metallic cartridge.
For the rest of the world, I think we're Likely utilizing either black powder (the logical choice) or, with alchemical and magical advancements as well as chances to look at discarded Garlean technology over the years I wouldn't be surprised if Eorzea has picked up paper cartidges and flintlock/percussion cap as their mainstay.
I'm personallyof the opion that, like most gaps within firearm technology, those with money can acquire limited supplies of higher grade technology. Someone taking apart a gunblade from Garlean infantry (had to be plenty scattered after the fall) and simply reverse engineering it to a thrown back state is very feasible. I could see Otto having enough resources and IC reasoning to be able to acquire a derringer-type side arm, small and admittedly clumsy but it's a place to start.
Garleans follow the fantasy basis of Magitek, mechanics with fudged workings that are McGuffined simply by saying: Magic does it. It makes it difficult to gauge however I'd place them at: Late Percussion Cap styled weaponry.
Personally picturing their weaponry with mechanisms similar to a late era revolver: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colt_Army_Model_1860
With the same type of ammunition utilizing some form of advanced paper cartridge (alchemical magitek thing) or an early form of metallic cartridge.
For the rest of the world, I think we're Likely utilizing either black powder (the logical choice) or, with alchemical and magical advancements as well as chances to look at discarded Garlean technology over the years I wouldn't be surprised if Eorzea has picked up paper cartidges and flintlock/percussion cap as their mainstay.
I'm personallyof the opion that, like most gaps within firearm technology, those with money can acquire limited supplies of higher grade technology. Someone taking apart a gunblade from Garlean infantry (had to be plenty scattered after the fall) and simply reverse engineering it to a thrown back state is very feasible. I could see Otto having enough resources and IC reasoning to be able to acquire a derringer-type side arm, small and admittedly clumsy but it's a place to start.
