The Genesis of a Legend
Origins and Commission
The echo of a gunshot, the scent of gunpowder, and the glint of polished steel – these are the sensory hallmarks of the American West, a period rich in myth and legend. Among the icons of this era, few firearms possess the mystique and enduring appeal of the Colt Buntline Special. This article dives into the world of this famous revolver, specifically considering the elusive aspect of a .46 caliber model, exploring its history, design, pop culture influence, and appeal to collectors.
To understand the Colt Buntline Special, we must first journey back to the late nineteenth century, a time when the expansion of the American frontier was in full swing. The story begins with Ned Buntline, a dime novelist whose tales of the Wild West captivated the public. Buntline, a man with a flair for self-promotion, is often credited, at least in legend, with commissioning a special run of Colt revolvers.
The exact details remain somewhat shrouded in mystery. The prevailing narrative suggests that Buntline wanted to gift a number of these customized Colt revolvers to a group of lawmen in the West, specifically the famous lawmen known as the “Wyatt Earp” group. The purpose: a publicity stunt to enhance the notoriety of both Buntline and the lawmen themselves. Whether these pistols were actually used for law enforcement, or more for promotional purposes, is a point of ongoing discussion among firearms historians and collectors.
The distinctive design that emerged from this commission set the Colt Buntline Special apart from its contemporaries. The most striking feature was the exceptionally long barrel, typically measuring twelve inches, though variations exist. This extended barrel provided an advantage in terms of sight radius, enhancing the potential for accuracy at longer ranges. The pistol was instantly recognizable.
Delving into the .46 Caliber (or the Lack Thereof)
Exploring Cartridges and Possibilities
Now, the most intriguing aspect of this exploration arises: the .46 caliber. The Colt Buntline Special was typically chambered for other popular pistol rounds of the day, such as the .45 Long Colt. However, the notion of a .46 caliber Buntline Special is more complex. No .46-caliber Buntline Special from Colt itself is definitively known to have been produced. Thus, we’re entering the realm of hypothesis and possibility, along with discussion of the potential.
The first aspect we need to discuss is the .46 caliber. Several cartridges would fall in this category, and they would determine the gun’s performance. Many of these rounds would be rifle cartridges. Could one be adapted to a handgun? Certainly. It could be done through chambering a suitable round, although this may be a modification done outside the factory. The process may involve altering the cylinder and barrel to accommodate a .46-caliber cartridge.
The potential for a .46-caliber Colt Buntline Special opens up fascinating possibilities regarding performance. A cartridge of this caliber, especially if using a heavier bullet, could deliver significantly more stopping power than the standard .45 Long Colt. The longer barrel of the Buntline Special would contribute to better performance, maximizing the velocity and the effectiveness of the round, at a cost of increased recoil.
The .46 caliber has never been a very popular caliber for handguns, mainly because it is too large for a standard sized handgun. However, if a custom gunsmith had created a .46 caliber Buntline Special, it would be an extreme version of an already extreme handgun. Such a gun would be an oddity.
Unraveling the Design and Features
Detailed Design and Components
The Colt Buntline Special’s distinctiveness goes beyond its barrel length. The standard model was based on the Colt Single Action Army (SAA), often dubbed the “Peacemaker.” As such, it shared the SAA’s basic design: a single-action revolver with a loading gate, a cylinder that rotated to align with the barrel, and a manual hammer that needed to be cocked for each shot.
Beyond the barrel, a range of other features distinguished the Buntline Special. The sights, for example, were often upgraded to enhance accuracy. The front sight was typically taller than on standard SAAs, and the rear sight, though not always present, could be a notch cut into the top strap. The grips, usually made of wood, sometimes featured elaborate checkering or other decorative elements.
The barrel of the Buntline Special would be longer than the usual handguns, and the entire firearm would be much larger overall. The long barrel would have the effect of placing the center of gravity of the gun far forward. This would have an effect on balance, and on how the gun is handled. The long barrel also leads to an increased sight radius, which can increase accuracy.
While the core components such as the frame and cylinder would remain largely unchanged from the standard SAA, the quality of these components, the finish, and the level of craftsmanship could vary depending on the particular revolver and its intended purpose. Some Buntline Specials might have been highly polished and elaborately engraved, while others were utilitarian, meant to function rather than to be displayed.
The Buntline Special in Popular Culture
Hollywood and its Influence
The Colt Buntline Special’s reputation has been cemented through its frequent appearances in film, television, and literature. The firearm’s dramatic form has served as a perfect storytelling tool. Its long barrel, which gives it a distinctive visual appeal, immediately catches the eye, conveying a sense of power, authority, and historical authenticity.
One of the most iconic representations of the Buntline Special on the screen is in the movie “Wyatt Earp”. Although the historical accuracy of the film is debated, the appearance of the revolver is visually arresting and is a key part of the film’s appeal. Numerous other Westerns have featured the revolver.
The Buntline Special’s presence goes beyond the big screen, also influencing the realm of pop culture in other ways. The gun’s unusual design has caused it to be immortalized in various formats, including novels, graphic novels, and even video games. This frequent use has made the Buntline Special an instantly recognizable symbol of the Wild West. The Colt Buntline Special is a visual shortcut, communicating the spirit of the era in a single glance.
A Collector’s Treasure
Appreciating Rarity and Condition
For collectors, the Colt Buntline Special holds a special allure. The gun is instantly desirable, and its value can fluctuate based on various factors. The rarity, of course, plays a huge role in how much a gun costs. Factory-produced examples are relatively rare. Original examples are highly prized.
The condition of the revolver is also of paramount importance. The better the condition, the higher the value. Collectible weapons are judged by how well they have been maintained. Original finish, functionality, and any unique features are considered essential.
Provenance also contributes to value. A Buntline Special with documented historical significance is likely to be more valuable than one without. Any associations with famous figures or notable events further enhance collectability.
The passion for collecting antique weapons is an investment in the past. Owners and connoisseurs of this firearm are committed to preserving history. Collectors are dedicated to preserving and appreciating these pieces of history.
Conclusion
The Enduring Legacy
The Colt Buntline Special, irrespective of the existence of a definitive .46 caliber variant, continues to captivate the imaginations of firearm enthusiasts. Its unique design, its place in popular culture, and its association with the romance of the Old West combine to create an enduring legacy. The long barrel, iconic look, and association with figures of legend guarantee the gun’s place in history, and its appeal for collectors. The Colt Buntline Special is not just a firearm; it’s a symbol. It embodies the spirit of adventure, the thrill of the frontier, and the enduring fascination with the American West. Whether a .46 caliber example existed or not, the Colt Buntline Special remains a legend, worthy of admiration and respect.
Resources for Further Research
The Colt Buntline Special is not just a firearm; it’s a symbol. It embodies the spirit of adventure, the thrill of the frontier, and the enduring fascination with the American West. Whether a .46 caliber example existed or not, the Colt Buntline Special remains a legend, worthy of admiration and respect.
- “Colt: An American Legend” by R.L. Wilson
- “The Colt Single Action Army Revolver” by John T. Raftery
- Websites like the Colt Collector’s Association and specialized firearm forums.
- Auction catalogs of reputable auction houses specializing in antique firearms.
