38 Special, since that is the most popular caliber associated with this firearm, although it has been manufactured in several other calibers.Īlthough several Europeans had designed pistols that were self-loading, their firearms had not won broad acceptance. The handgun is frequently referred to as the S&W. This revolver has been a standard in military, law enforcement and civilian hands since its introduction in 1899. This review of revolvers, though brief, wouldn’t be complete without mentioning one of the most influential handguns in U.S. Uses vary from simple plinking or home rodent control, to firearms suitable to confront a massive Alaskan Brown bear. Single-action handguns are widely available in today’s marketplace. The solid design, reliability and the mythological appeal of these revolvers have ensured their viability in the marketplace, as well as the hearts of collectors and shooters. Since its introduction, the revolver has been available in up to thirty calibers and a number of configurations, including the famous (mostly in stories) Buntline Special. This handgun is popularly known as “The gun that won the west.” A single-action, six-chamber (six-shooter), it is the iconic weapon most people identify with cowboys, gunslingers and old-west lawmen. 45 Peacemaker (pictured above), the Single-Action Army (SAA ,model) of 1892, was a practical firearm.

It wasn’t until fully metallic, centerfire, cartridges-usually brass-were available, that the Colt.

The Paterson enjoyed limited success with both civilian and military markets.

32 calibre handguns