Historical Firearm Features

In an effort to outdo Smith & Wesson’s fast-loading, top-break revolvers, Colt brought a solid-frame, swing-out-cylinder revolver to the market in 1889. Its initial models were large-frame handguns in .38 and .41 calibers designed for military use.

Of the many revolver designs made by Colt, the Single Action Army family is one of the most famous and long-lived. Follow Rick Hacker as he delves into the specifics of collecting second generation examples of these classic wheelguns.

Through the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), qualifying buyers can enter a lottery to purchase their own genuine U.S. military-surplus M1911 or M1911A1 pistol.

Following many European militaries’ trend toward the adoption of semi-automatic pistols, in 1907, the United States Army held a series of trials with the aim of selecting a self-loader for its own forces.

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is accepting applications from those interested in taking ownership of one of the retired U.S. Military 1911 pistols it is currently offering for sale. Requests must be postmarked on or before Sept. 30.

Can you help identify a small box of what I believe is Russian-made ammunition?

My grandfather, a civil engineer for the Russian Tsarist government, obtained this Iver Johnson Safety Automatic .32-cal. blackpowder revolver sometime in the early 1900s on one of his trips to Finland or Britain.

This particular pre-World War II Colt M1911 in .45 ACP pistol came with adjustable sights, marked “National Match," a factory-honed action, match-grade barrel and is in very good condition.

The Model of 1919 Thompson submachine guns were the first of their breed, but they were more of an evolutionary series than a “model.” With names like “Persuader” and “Annihilator,” these prototypes were the foundation of an American legend.