What Gun Did Wyatt Earp Use?
Wyatt Earp, the legendary lawman and gunslinger of the American Old West, is often associated with the Colt Single Action Army revolver. However, the answer to this question is more complex than a simple yes or no. Earp used multiple firearms throughout his career, and the choice of gun often depended on the situation and the region he was in. In this article, we’ll explore the various guns that Wyatt Earp used and examine the evidence to determine which one was his primary firearm.
Early Years and the Remington Model 1875
Earp’s early years as a lawman began in Tombstone, Arizona, where he worked as a constable and later as a deputy sheriff. During this period, he used a Remington Model 1875 revolver, a popular handgun of the time. The Remington Model 1875 was a double-action revolver chambered in.44 caliber and featured a 5.5-inch barrel. Earp likely used this gun during his early confrontations with outlaws, including the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
The Colt Single Action Army
The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver is perhaps the most iconic gun associated with Wyatt Earp. Earp purchased his first SAA in 1878, and it became his primary sidearm for many years. The SAA was a highly regarded handgun, known for its reliability, accuracy, and power. Earp’s SAA was chambered in.45 Colt and featured a 5.5-inch barrel. He used this gun during many notable confrontations, including the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the vendetta ride against the Clanton gang.
The Smith & Wesson Model 3
In addition to his SAA, Earp also used a Smith & Wesson Model 3 revolver. The Model 3 was a double-action revolver chambered in.45 Colt and featured a 5.5-inch barrel. Earp acquired this gun in the late 1880s and used it during his time as a lawman in San Francisco. The Model 3 was a popular handgun among lawmen and outlaws alike, known for its reliability and accuracy.
The Buntline Special
One of the most enduring myths surrounding Wyatt Earp is the existence of the Buntline Special, a customized Colt Single Action Army revolver allegedly given to Earp by Ned Buntline, a popular author of the time. According to legend, Buntline presented Earp with a special revolver featuring a customized 12-inch barrel and silver-plated hardware. While there is no conclusive evidence to prove the existence of the Buntline Special, some historians believe that Earp may have used a similar customized SAA during his later years.
Comparison of Guns Used by Wyatt Earp
| Gun | Caliber | Barrel Length | Action | Year Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remington Model 1875 | .44 | 5.5-inch | Double-Action | 1879-1881 |
| Colt Single Action Army | .45 Colt | 5.5-inch | Single-Action | 1878-1890s |
| Smith & Wesson Model 3 | .45 Colt | 5.5-inch | Double-Action | Late 1880s-1890s |
| Buntline Special (alleged) | .45 Colt | 12-inch | Single-Action | Unknown |
Conclusion
Wyatt Earp used multiple firearms throughout his career, each serving a specific purpose and situation. While the Colt Single Action Army revolver is perhaps the most iconic gun associated with Earp, he also used other handguns, including the Remington Model 1875 and the Smith & Wesson Model 3. The existence of the Buntline Special remains a topic of debate among historians, but it is clear that Earp was a skilled gunslinger who relied on a variety of firearms to get the job done.
