The Colt Buntline Special .45 is more than just a firearm; it's a legend woven into the fabric of the American Wild West. This article delves into the history, features, and enduring mythos surrounding this iconic revolver, separating fact from fiction. We'll explore its design, its connection to the legendary Ned Buntline, and its place in popular culture.
The Gun That Made a Name (and a Myth)
The "Buntline Special" moniker conjures images of cowboys, gunfights, and larger-than-life figures. But the truth, as often happens with Wild West lore, is more nuanced. While the revolver itself was real, its association with the writer Edward Zane Carroll Judson (who used the pen name Ned Buntline) is partly legendary. The Colt Single Action Army revolver, often referred to as the Peacemaker, was the base model. What distinguished the Buntline Special wasn't a distinct model, but rather a specific configuration of the standard Peacemaker.
Key Features Distinguishing the Buntline Special
The key difference lay in its longer barrel: typically a 12-inch barrel, although variations existed. This longer barrel provided increased range and accuracy compared to the standard 7.5-inch Peacemaker. Other features often associated (though not always present) with the Buntline Special include:
- Larger grip: Often a larger, more robust grip for a better hold.
- Specific finish: While not always consistent, certain finishes were more commonly associated with the Buntline Special.
It's crucial to understand that Colt never officially produced a "Buntline Special" model. These were custom orders, often fulfilled by Colt's gunsmiths or specialized shops, catering to individual preferences. This explains the variation in features across guns identified as "Buntline Specials".
The Ned Buntline Connection: Fact vs. Fiction
Ned Buntline, a prolific writer of dime novels and sensationalized stories of the Wild West, is inextricably linked to the firearm's legend. While he likely did commission some long-barreled revolvers, the scale of his influence is often exaggerated. The idea that he single-handedly commissioned thousands, or that he gifted them to famous figures like Wyatt Earp, is largely unsubstantiated by historical evidence.
The connection largely stems from Buntline's association with Wild West figures and his own persona. His fictional tales amplified the image of the long-barreled revolver, contributing to its mystique and solidifying its place in popular imagination.
The Buntline Special in Popular Culture
The Colt Buntline Special's image has been consistently exploited in popular culture, reinforcing its iconic status. From Hollywood Westerns to video games, the long-barreled revolver appears as a symbol of the Wild West. This extensive portrayal has helped cement its position in popular consciousness, even if the reality of its production and distribution is less glamorous.
Examples in Popular Culture:
- Numerous Western films featuring characters wielding the distinctive revolver.
- Video games often include the Buntline Special as a powerful and iconic weapon.
- Collectible firearms and replicas further contribute to the gun's enduring popularity.
Beyond the Myth: Collecting and Ownership
The "Buntline Special" remains a sought-after collector's item. Authentic examples, given their custom nature and rarity, command high prices. However, potential buyers should be wary of misidentified or incorrectly attributed firearms. Thorough research and verification are crucial when purchasing any firearm, especially one with such a rich (and often exaggerated) history.
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Myth and Steel
The Colt Buntline Special .45 is a fascinating case study in how legend intertwines with reality. While not a distinct factory model, the long-barreled Colt Single Action Army revolver, associated with Ned Buntline and the romanticized Wild West, holds a unique place in American firearms history and popular culture. Its enduring appeal stems from its association with iconic figures, its dramatic appearance, and its place in countless stories and myths of the Old West. Understanding both the historical facts and the enduring myths surrounding the Buntline Special is crucial to appreciating its complex legacy.