Production of this revolver began in 1872 and variations continue to be produced today. Collectors divide its history [...] Click here to continue reading.]]> The Colt Single Action Army Revolver

This is one of the most famous guns of all time. The Army contracted and carried it thoughout the Indian Wars and it is associated with the most famous lawmen and infamous outlaws on the frontier. It was often known as the “Peacemaker”, “Frontier Six-Shooter”, and the “Equalizer”, among others.

Production of this revolver began in 1872 and variations continue to be produced today. Collectors divide its history into “First”, “Second” and “Third” generations. The first generation, 1872 to 1940, includes about 180,000 revolvers made before 1898. More than 350,000 of these guns have been produced to date.

The most collectable caliber guns include the 45 (150,000 made), the 44-40 (64,000 made), the 41 (16,000 made), the 38-40 (38,000 made) and the 32-20 (29,000 made). Caution should be exercised by collectors as this is a widely reproduced revolver.

Although rendered obsolete as a sidearm by the revolver, many Aston Model 1842 pistols were pressed into service due to [...] Click here to continue reading.]]> Henry Aston Pistols, 1842 to 1852

From 1846 until 1850 Henry Aston made approximately 24,000 Model 1842 pistols at Middletown, Connecticut under a U.S. Army contract of February 25, 1845 at $6.50 each before the firm’s name was changed to H. Aston & Co. Thereafter, another 6,000 pistols were made from 1851 to 1852.

Although rendered obsolete as a sidearm by the revolver, many Aston Model 1842 pistols were pressed into service due to the initial demand for handguns during the rush to arms in 1861.