Intro
Explore the rich history of the Old West Coach Gun Revolver, a legendary firearm that dominated the American frontier. From its origins to its notorious use by outlaws and lawmen, discover the fascinating story behind this iconic revolver, including its design, evolution, and impact on the Wild West era.
The Old West, a time of lawlessness and justice, where cowboys and outlaws roamed free. The Coach Gun Revolver, a firearm that played a significant role in this era, was a staple for many a cowboy, sheriff, and outlaw. Its rich history is steeped in the lore of the American West, and its impact on the development of firearms is still felt today.
Origins of the Coach Gun Revolver
The Coach Gun Revolver, also known as the "Coach Gun" or "Mare's Leg," has its roots in the mid-19th century. During this time, the need for a compact, reliable, and powerful firearm arose. Stagecoach companies, in particular, required a gun that could be easily stored and wielded in the tight confines of a coach. Thus, the Coach Gun Revolver was born.
Design and Features
The Coach Gun Revolver was designed to be a compact, double-barreled shotgun with a revolving cylinder. This unique design allowed for two shots to be fired before needing to reload. The gun's small size and light weight made it easy to handle and store, making it an ideal choice for coach drivers and guards. The Coach Gun Revolver was typically chambered in 12-gauge, with some variants firing 10-gauge or even rifle cartridges.
The Coach Gun Revolver in the Old West
The Coach Gun Revolver quickly gained popularity in the Old West, becoming a staple among cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen. Its compact size and reliability made it an ideal choice for self-defense, particularly in tight spaces such as saloons and stagecoaches.
Many notable figures of the Old West, including Wild Bill Hickok and Wyatt Earp, were known to carry Coach Gun Revolvers. The gun's reputation as a reliable and powerful firearm earned it a place in the annals of Western folklore.
Famous Coach Gun Revolver Owners
Some of the most famous owners of the Coach Gun Revolver include:
- Wild Bill Hickok: Known for his lightning-fast draw, Hickok was often seen carrying a Coach Gun Revolver.
- Wyatt Earp: Earp, a legendary lawman, was known to carry a Coach Gun Revolver during his time in Tombstone.
- Doc Holliday: Holliday, a close friend of Wyatt Earp, was also known to carry a Coach Gun Revolver.
Legacy of the Coach Gun Revolver
The Coach Gun Revolver's impact on the development of firearms cannot be overstated. Its unique design and features paved the way for future firearms, including the development of the revolver.
Today, the Coach Gun Revolver remains a popular collector's item, with many reproductions and replicas available. Its rich history and legacy continue to fascinate firearms enthusiasts and historians alike.
Modern-Day Coach Gun Revolvers
While the original Coach Gun Revolvers are highly sought after by collectors, modern-day reproductions and replicas are available for purchase. These guns are often chambered in a variety of calibers, including.38 Special,.357 Magnum, and.44-40.
Conclusion
The Coach Gun Revolver is an iconic firearm that played a significant role in the Old West. Its unique design, reliability, and power made it a staple among cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen. Today, its legacy continues to fascinate firearms enthusiasts and historians alike. Whether you're a collector, historian, or simply a firearms enthusiast, the Coach Gun Revolver is a firearm that is sure to captivate and inspire.
Coach Gun Revolver Image Gallery
What is a Coach Gun Revolver?
+A Coach Gun Revolver is a type of firearm that was popular in the Old West. It is a compact, double-barreled shotgun with a revolving cylinder.
Who used Coach Gun Revolvers?
+Coach Gun Revolvers were used by a variety of people, including cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen. Notable figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Wyatt Earp were known to carry Coach Gun Revolvers.
Are Coach Gun Revolvers still made today?
+Yes, Coach Gun Revolvers are still made today. Many companies produce reproductions and replicas of the original Coach Gun Revolvers, often chambered in a variety of calibers.