Old Cowboy Revolver Caliber

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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04-01-2025

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The iconic image of a lone cowboy, squinting in the desert sun, hand resting on the grip of a revolver, is deeply ingrained in popular culture. But what about the guns themselves? What calibers powered these legendary six-shooters? Let's delve into the history and ballistics of some of the most famous old cowboy revolver calibers.

The .44-40 Winchester: A Versatile Cartridge

The .44-40 Winchester, also known as the .44 WCF (Winchester Center Fire), holds a special place in the annals of Western firearms. Introduced in 1873 alongside the Winchester Model 1873 rifle, its versatility quickly made it a favorite. This cartridge was powerful enough for hunting small game, yet manageable enough for self-defense. Its widespread adoption ensured that many cowboys and lawmen carried revolvers chambered for this caliber.

Key Characteristics:

• Caliber: .429 inch (10.9 mm) bullet diameter
• Case Type: Bottleneck
• Notable Revolvers: Colt Single Action Army, Winchester Model 1873

The .45 Colt: A Heavy Hitter

The .45 Colt, also known as the .45 Long Colt, is arguably the most recognizable old west revolver cartridge. Its larger diameter and substantial powder charge delivered considerable stopping power, making it ideal for dealing with both threats and large game. Its reputation for power and reliability cemented its place in history.

Key Characteristics:

• Caliber: .452 inch (11.5 mm) bullet diameter
• Case Type: Straight
• Notable Revolvers: Colt Single Action Army, Remington 1858

The .38 Special: A Smaller, But Still Effective Choice

While not as visually striking as its larger counterparts, the .38 Special played a significant role in the Old West. Introduced in 1898, it offered a good balance between firepower and controllability. Although it wasn't as powerful as the .44-40 or .45 Colt, its smaller size and manageable recoil made it a popular choice for law enforcement and those who preferred a lighter-carrying handgun.

Key Characteristics:

• Caliber: .357 inch (9.07 mm) bullet diameter
• Case Type: Straight
• Notable Revolvers: Colt Police Positive, Smith & Wesson Model 10

Beyond the Big Three: Other Notable Calibers

While the .44-40, .45 Colt, and .38 Special were undeniably dominant, other calibers saw some use in the Old West. These included, but were not limited to, the .32-20 Winchester and the .22 Short. While less powerful, these cartridges found their niche in smaller revolvers, often used for self-defense or target shooting.

Conclusion:

The history of old cowboy revolver calibers is rich and intertwined with the mythology of the American West. Understanding the capabilities and historical significance of these cartridges gives us a deeper appreciation for the firearms that played a pivotal role in shaping the stories and legends of the frontier. Each caliber represents a chapter in the evolution of firearms technology and the ever-evolving needs of the era.