The 5 Greatest Guns Of The Old West

The guns of the Old West were more than weapons—they were tools of survival, symbols of power, and instruments of change on a rapidly expanding frontier. From lawmen and outlaws to soldiers and settlers, firearms shaped the destiny of the American West. Here are five of the most impactful guns in Old West history:

1. Colt Single Action Army (Peacemaker)
Arguably the most iconic revolver of the Old West, the Colt Single Action Army was introduced in 1873 and quickly became the sidearm of choice for cowboys, lawmen, and the U.S. military. Chambered in .45 Colt and later other calibers, the Peacemaker combined reliability, stopping power, and simplicity. Its robust frame and smooth action made it perfect for quick draws and tough conditions. Legends like Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, and Pat Garrett carried Colts, and the gun’s role in taming frontier towns like Dodge City and Tombstone made it a symbol of justice—or vengeance—depending on who was holding it.

2. Winchester Model 1873
Nicknamed “The Gun that Won the West,” the Winchester Model 1873 was a lever-action rifle that became synonymous with frontier expansion. Its ability to fire the same .44-40 cartridge as many revolvers gave it practical appeal, allowing users to carry one type of ammunition. Rugged, fast-firing, and deadly accurate at medium range, it was a favorite of ranchers, settlers, and lawmen alike. From buffalo hunters on the plains to the defense of frontier homesteads, the Model 1873 became a staple of Western life and lore.

3. Sharps Rifle
The Sharps rifle, especially the large-caliber “buffalo guns” like the 1874 model, played a critical role in shaping the American West—especially in the destruction of the buffalo herds. These falling-block rifles were renowned for their long-range accuracy and immense power. Sharps rifles allowed hunters to kill bison from hundreds of yards away, which hastened the collapse of the Plains tribes' traditional way of life. Men like Billy Dixon used the Sharps to legendary effect at battles like Adobe Walls, where long-range shots helped repel overwhelming Native forces.

4. Spencer Repeating Rifle
First introduced during the Civil War and continuing into the early Indian Wars, the Spencer Repeating Rifle was one of the first successful repeating rifles used by the U.S. military. Its 7-shot magazine and lever-action design allowed for rapid fire compared to single-shot muzzleloaders. Though eventually overshadowed by Winchesters, Spencers were still in use during the post-war frontier campaigns. Cavalry troops favored them during campaigns against the Plains tribes, giving them a distinct tactical advantage in open terrain.

5. Smith & Wesson Model 3 (Schofield Revolver)
A rival to the Colt, the Smith & Wesson Model 3—particularly the Schofield variant—was prized for its top-break design, which allowed much faster reloading than the Peacemaker. Issued to cavalry units and favored by outlaws like Jesse James, the Schofield's practical design and ease of use made it a formidable weapon in fast-paced fights. While it never quite surpassed Colt in popularity, it remains a critical chapter in the story of frontier firearms.

These five guns didn’t just fill holsters—they helped shape the West’s mythology, conflicts, and survival. Their legacy lives on in museums, films, and the echoes of a not-so-distant frontier.

To learn more about Old West history, be sure to check out the latest episode on the History At The OK Corral Youtube Channel, linked below!