The Colt Buntline Special .45 is more than just a firearm; it's a symbol of the Wild West, romanticized in countless novels and films. This iconic revolver, often associated with the legendary Ned Buntline, holds a fascinating history and unique place in firearms lore. While the exact details surrounding its origins are debated, its impact on popular culture is undeniable. This article delves deep into the Colt Buntline Special .45, exploring its features, history, and lasting legacy.
Understanding the Colt Buntline Special's Distinctive Features
The Colt Buntline Special .45 is easily recognizable due to its unusually long barrel, typically ranging from 12 to 16 inches. This extended barrel significantly impacted the gun's balance, accuracy, and recoil characteristics. Unlike the standard Colt Single Action Army, which boasted a more manageable barrel length, the Buntline's longer barrel made it less maneuverable but dramatically increased its range and accuracy.
Key Characteristics:
- Long Barrel: The defining feature, significantly increasing range and accuracy.
- Caliber: Primarily chambered in .45 Colt.
- Single Action: Requires manual cocking of the hammer before each shot.
- Large Frame: Built on the Colt Single Action Army frame, known for its robust construction.
- Variations: While the long barrel is consistent, grip variations and minor customizations existed.
The Myth and Reality of Ned Buntline's Involvement
The name "Buntline Special" is inextricably linked to Edward Zane Carroll Judson, better known as Ned Buntline, a dime novelist famous for his sensationalized tales of the Wild West. Legend paints Buntline as the mastermind behind the creation of this unique firearm, claiming he commissioned Colt to produce a revolver tailored to his fictional characters' needs. However, historical evidence suggests a more nuanced reality.
While Buntline undoubtedly popularized the long-barreled Colt through his writings, it's unlikely he directly commissioned Colt's to create a specialized version. Historians believe that the long-barreled revolvers were likely customized by gunsmiths or even Colt themselves, fulfilling individual customer requests. Buntline's association amplified the gun's mystique, forever intertwining his name with this iconic weapon.
The Buntline Special in Popular Culture
The Colt Buntline Special's association with Ned Buntline and Wild West imagery solidified its place in popular culture. Countless films and television shows have depicted the gun, often portraying it as the weapon of choice for rugged cowboys and outlaws. This cinematic representation, though sometimes exaggerated, contributed significantly to the gun's legendary status.
Case Study: Film and Television Portrayals
- The Lone Ranger: Though not always explicitly identified as a Buntline Special, the Lone Ranger's iconic Colt often resembles the long-barreled variant.
- Numerous Westerns: The Buntline Special has been featured in countless Western films, often used by both heroes and villains.
- Modern Media: Even today, the gun remains a recurring symbol in video games, novels, and other forms of media related to the Wild West.
The Buntline Special Today: Collecting and Preservation
Today, the Colt Buntline Special .45 is a highly sought-after collector's item. Authentic examples are rare and command significant prices due to their historical significance and association with Wild West lore. Collectors carefully preserve these firearms, recognizing their value as pieces of American history.
Factors Affecting Value:
- Condition: As with any collectible, the condition of the firearm heavily influences its value.
- Originality: Authenticity is paramount; reproductions and altered versions hold far less value.
- Markings and Documentation: Any markings identifying the gun's origins and history significantly increase its value.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The Colt Buntline Special .45 remains a compelling symbol of the Wild West, its long barrel and legendary status firmly cemented in popular imagination. While the details surrounding its origins may be debated, the gun's enduring impact is undeniable. It continues to fascinate collectors, historians, and enthusiasts alike, representing a captivating chapter in firearms history and the enduring allure of the American frontier. Its legacy transcends its function as a firearm; it's a piece of history, a myth, and a cultural icon.