Ep 2. Pirate Special

In this episode of Mythbusters, titled "Pirate Special," hosts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman take on a variety of myths surrounding the swashbuckling world of pirates. From buried treasure to walking the plank, the team puts these legends to the test using the scientific method.

The episode begins with a look at some classic pirate weapons. Adam and Jamie test whether a cannon can blow a hole through a ship's hull, and whether a flintlock pistol can ignite a pile of gunpowder. These tests provide some explosive results and shed light on the effectiveness of old-fashioned pirate weaponry.

Next, the hosts tackle the myth of buried treasure. They examine the story of pirate Captain Kidd, who allegedly buried his loot on a deserted island in the Caribbean. Using metal detectors and shovels, Adam and Jamie set out to find this treasure for themselves. Along the way, they discuss the history of piracy and what motivated these notorious criminals to brave the high seas in search of riches.

The team also explores the myth of walking the plank, a punishment supposedly inflicted upon disobedient crew members. Adam and Jamie build their own custom plank and attempt to recreate this punishment in a swimming pool. They also examine whether it would be possible for a person to survive falling off a ship and into the ocean. Using crash test dummies and other equipment, they simulate the impact of hitting water from a great height.

Another myth that the team examines is whether a flaming arrow can set a ship on fire. They set up a series of tests to determine the conditions under which this might be possible. This involves launching flaming arrows at a model ship while it sails across a lake. Along the way, they discuss the engineering of pirate ships and the challenges of naval warfare in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Finally, Adam and Jamie take a look at the legend of the Jolly Roger, the iconic black flag with a white skull and crossbones that pirates were said to hoist on their ships. They explore the history of this symbol and whether it was actually used by pirates as a means of intimidation. They also test whether a ship flying the Jolly Roger would be more likely to be attacked by other pirates, since it would be seen as a potential source of riches.

Throughout the episode, Adam and Jamie approach each myth with a blend of skepticism and curiosity. They use science to separate fact from fiction and provide viewers with a clearer understanding of the world of piracy. Along the way, they offer insights into the history of this fascinating subject and shed light on some of the myths and legends that have arisen around it.

Overall, "Pirate Special" is a fun and informative episode of Mythbusters that is sure to please fans of pirates and pirate lore. Whether you're interested in the history of piracy or simply love explosions and scientific experiments, this episode has something for everyone. So raise the Jolly Roger and set sail for adventure with Adam and Jamie as they explore the world of pirates!