Favorite Firearms: A Kit Gun For A Favor

by
posted on December 25, 2023
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Smith & Wesson kit gun

This 6"-barreled, .22 LR-chambered Smith & Wesson kit gun belonged to one of my firearm mentors. Jack DuVall was one of the founding members of my local gun club and was a warm and wonderful man.

When his wife passed away, arthritis in his knees made it difficult for him to get to his basement laundry. I suggested moving them upstairs and I have that skill set, so I did the plumbing and moved them upstairs for him.

Afterward, Jack came in with a checkbook, and I laughed at him; there was no way I was taking money for that project. A few weeks later, we were at the club, and he handed me this pistol because he knew how much I admired it. He said, “Please accept this,” in thanks for moving his laundry. I was shocked and pleased.

I miss Jack most every day, but this pistol helps me keep his memory alive.

—Shawn Cramer

Latest

Beretta’s three arrow logo
Beretta’s three arrow logo

500 Years in Business: Beretta’s Staying Power

Once Italian, now global, always family-owned; Beretta, the world’s oldest industrial firm, balances continuity and new ideas in its 500-year-old pursuit of gunmaking perfection.

A Traditional Turn: The Derya EX1300 & EX1400 Shotguns

While the company is mostly known for radically modern shotgun designs, Derya's new EX1300 and EX1400 are wood-stocked, break-action shotguns designed for the skeet range or hunting field. 

I Carry: Daniel Defense H9 in an ANR Designs Holster

In our latest “I Carry” segment above, we’re taking a closer look at the Daniel Defense H9, a unique, striker-fired design that borrows popular features from several different handguns. 

A Surprising Conversation on Just How Far an Anti-Gun State Can Go

In Massachusetts this fall, ballot question 9 is an effort to repeal 2024 legislation known as “An Act Modernizing Firearm Laws,” a complex package of fees, red tape, training requirements, and other burdens placed on law-abiding gun owners. 

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 2, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Are Snub-Nose Revolvers Still Relevant?

In a world of micro-compact handguns, does the venerable snub-nose revolver still have a place? Here are four reasons why you might still consider carrying a snubby.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.