The Colt Buntline Special .45 revolver holds a unique place in firearms history, steeped in legend and often misunderstood. This article delves deep into its origins, design, use, and enduring cultural impact. We'll explore the truth behind the myths and provide a comprehensive understanding of this iconic weapon.
The Birth of a Legend: Untangling the Buntline Special's Origins
The name "Buntline Special" itself is a bit of a misnomer. While the legendary dime novelist Ned Buntline (Edward Zane Carroll Judson) is associated with its popularization, he didn't design the firearm. The revolver is essentially a longer-barreled version of the Colt Single Action Army (SAA) .45, often featuring a 12-inch barrel. These longer barrels were custom-made, not a standard Colt offering.
The Role of Ned Buntline
Buntline's influence lies in his association with Wild Bill Hickok and other famed figures of the American Old West. He reportedly gifted these longer-barreled Colts to his acquaintances, further cementing their image as powerful and iconic weapons. This association, along with Buntline's prolific writing, significantly contributed to the revolver's legendary status. The "Buntline Special" became synonymous with the Wild West itself.
Technical Specifications and Variations
While not a factory-produced model, the Buntline Special shared the same basic mechanism as the Colt SAA. Key features included:
- Caliber: .45 Colt
- Action: Single-action
- Barrel Length: Typically 12 inches, although variations existed.
- Cylinder Capacity: 6 rounds
Variations in barrel length, finish, and grips existed depending on the custom maker and the owner's preferences. This adds to the uniqueness and collectability of each individual Buntline Special.
The Buntline Special in Popular Culture and Reality
The Buntline Special's image has been heavily romanticized in popular culture. It frequently appears in Western films and literature, often associated with skilled gunfighters. This depiction, however, sometimes overshadows its practical limitations.
Myth vs. Reality: Accuracy and Practicality
The extremely long barrel, while visually striking, didn't necessarily translate to superior accuracy in real-world conditions. The added weight and length made it unwieldy for quick draws and close-quarters combat. While effective at longer ranges, its impracticality for everyday use might have limited its adoption by lawmen and everyday citizens.
Case Study: Wild Bill Hickok and the Buntline Special
While the story of Buntline gifting Hickok a Buntline Special is often repeated, concrete evidence confirming this is scarce. This highlights the blurry line between legend and reality when discussing this revolver. Hickok's preferred firearm was a Colt Paterson, suggesting the Buntline Special's prominence is largely a product of later storytelling.
The Enduring Legacy of the Colt Buntline Special
Despite the myths surrounding its origin and practicality, the Colt Buntline Special remains a significant piece of Americana. Its association with iconic figures and the Wild West era cemented its place in popular culture.
Collecting and Value
Today, authentic Buntline Specials are highly sought-after collector's items. Their rarity and historical significance contribute to their considerable value. Determining authenticity requires careful examination by firearms experts due to the numerous custom-made variations.
A Symbol of the American West
The Colt Buntline Special, whether historically accurate or mythologized, remains a potent symbol of the American frontier and its romantic past. It represents a time when larger-than-life figures shaped the narrative of the Wild West, and the firearm itself became a character in that story.
Conclusion: Beyond the Legend
The Colt Buntline Special .45 revolver is more than just a firearm; it's a cultural artifact. Understanding its origins, design, and role in popular culture allows us to appreciate its enduring legacy, separating fact from fiction, and recognizing its place in the rich tapestry of American history. The myth surrounding it may be as powerful as the gun itself.