Colt 380 Auto Hammerless: A Compact Classic in Firearm History

A Historical Context To understand the Colt 380 Auto Hammerless, it’s crucial to examine the historical backdrop of its creation. The early years of the twentieth century witnessed a growing demand for concealable, self-defense handguns. The rise of urbanization, coupled with increased concerns about personal safety, led to the development of numerous pocket pistols. These … Read more

When Was the Shotgun Invented? A Historical Look at the Birth of a Firearm

The earth rumbled with the discharge, a percussive wave that spread outwards, signaling the presence of a weapon unlike any other. This was not the crack of a single-projectile rifle, but the spreading embrace of multiple pellets, a cloud of lethal force. This distinctive sound and function define the shotgun, a firearm that has shaped … Read more

When Were Lever Action Rifles Invented? A History

Early Concepts and Influences Early Precursors Before the lever-action rifle, firearms were, by and large, single-shot weapons. Reloading required significant time and effort, severely limiting the rate of fire. The quest for a faster, more efficient, and reliable repeating rifle was a driving force behind early firearm innovation. Experimentation began long before the mid-nineteenth century, … Read more

Unveiling the Past: A Guide to the Marlin Shotgun Serial Number Lookup

Introduction Owning a classic Marlin shotgun isn’t just possessing a firearm; it’s holding a piece of American history. These well-crafted guns have earned their place in the annals of shooting sports and hunting, admired for their reliability and enduring quality. If you’ve inherited a Marlin shotgun, or if you’re simply curious about the history of … Read more

Virginia Arms Co. of Manassas, VA: A History of Craftsmanship and Classic Shotguns

The Genesis of Virginia Arms Co. For collectors of fine firearms, the name “Virginia Arms Co.” still resonates with quality and a bygone era. The company, once a cornerstone of the firearms industry, crafted shotguns renowned for their elegance, durability, and performance. Nestled in the heart of Manassas, Virginia, the Virginia Arms Co. left a … Read more

The Winchester Model 1890: A Legacy of .22 Short Rifles

The Genesis of the .22 Short The development of the .22 Short cartridge preceded the Model 1890, laying the groundwork for its eventual success. The story of this cartridge starts with the need for a more convenient and less expensive ammunition for target practice and small game hunting. Early attempts at self-contained cartridges saw improvements … Read more

The Duke’s Rifle: Exploring the John Wayne Winchester Ninety Four in .32-40

The unmistakable sound of a lever-action cycling, the glint of sunlight off polished steel, and the stoic gaze of a cinematic icon – these elements often converge in the memory of Western films. One image, deeply etched in the collective consciousness of moviegoers, is that of John Wayne, the embodiment of the American West, wielding … Read more

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