Romanticized in countless movies, the Old West was the epitome of white hat law dogs versus black hat scoundrels. In reality, however, it was an unforgiving life on the high plains with days of never ending, back breaking labor by families just trying to make a life for themselves. Of course, gunfighters both good and bad existed, carrying some historic weaponry. At the Museum of the West in Grand Junction, Colorado, there are several exhibits displaying guns from famous (and infamous) historical figures – It’s worth the trip if you are ever staying or driving through.

Did any of these guns actually ‘Win The West’? Doubtful. More likely a solid lever action rifle or a double-barreled shotgun was the tool used most often to put food on the table and protect the homestead. But it’s still fun to romanticize the Old West anyway.

This almost looks like one of those giant foam hats you’d get at the county fair.

I’m a sucker for an old top-break revolver.

Kid Curry of Butch Cassidy and The Wild Bunch fame.

The Old West was full of robbers and bandits. Apparently at the same time.

Buffalo Bill needs no introduction.

A great picture of a Ute Indian leader carrying an 1861 Remington. Finger on the trigger? Not exactly: of course the 1861 is a single action revolver, usually carried hammer down on an empty chamber.

 

General George S. Patton represented in the Museum of the West.

There’s a good chance that Alfred Packer was innocent of murder and cannibalism after all.

Annie Oakley’s pair of pistols.

Even in the 19th century, firearms manufacturers produce models aimed towards the women’s market.

Sidearms of Western Colorado Sheriff’s from the late 1800’s to the late 1900’s.

Miscellaneous:

Museum of the West – https://www.museumofwesternco.com/museum-of-the-west/

462 Ute Ave.
Grand Junction, CO 81501

(970) 242-0971
Summer Hours
May 1 – September 30
Monday – Saturday • 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday • Noon to 4 pm
Winter Hours
October 1 – April 30
Monday – Saturday • 10 am to 4 pm
Closed Sunday