Your Privacy Choices
Freedom Arms
Freedom Arms-Table of contents
- Intro/Overview
- Products/Models
- History
- Locations/Facilities
- TFB News
- Common Questions
- Where to Buy
1. Introduction/Overview
In the late 1970’s Dick Casull (the inventor of the .454 Casull cartridge) and Wayne Baker partnered up to create Freedom Arms, so named because it was based in Freedom, Wyoming. Though they they initially produced mini-revolvers, including belt-buckle models, they are now best known for their model 83 and 97 full size single action revolvers in a wide range of calibers.
2. Products/Models
Mini Revolvers:
From 1978-1990, Freedom Arms produced a number of 4 and 5 shot mini revolvers in .22lr and .22 WMR, as well as a black powder percussion model. Dick Casull was granted a few patents in relation to these firearms, including a floating firing pin for the mini revolvers, as well as the belt buckle holster. Though production via Freedom Arms ceased in 1990, the design of these mini-revolvers was licensed to North American Arms.
Freedom Arms Belt Buckle Mini Revolver. Image Credit: GunsAmerica
Freedom Arms Belt Buckle Mini Revolver in Belt Buckle
Image Credit: GunsAmerica
Models:
- “Patriot” 5 shot revolver. Chambered in .22lr with 1″, 1.75″ or 3″ barrel. Belt Buckle package w/1″ barrel only.
- “Ironsides” 4 shot revolver. Chambered in .22WMR with 1″, 1.75″, or 3″ barrel. Belt Buckle package w/1″ barrel only.
- Percussion model. 5 shot revolver. Chambered in .22 for use with Freedom Arms 29gr bullet and propelled by 2 grains of FFFFH, 1.6 grains Pyrodex, or 1 grain Hercules Bullseye powder. 1″, 1.75″, or 3″ barrel.
Model 83:
Introduced in 1983, The Model 83 is a single action revolver with a manual sliding bar safety system. Different configurations include “Field Grade”, “Hunter Pak”, “Premier Grade”, “Varmint Grade”, “Centerfire Silhouette” U.S. Deputy Marshal” and “.22 Silhouette”. 5 shot cylinder. Chambered in .22lr, .22WMR, (Model 252); .357 Mag.(Model 353); .41 Mag, .44 Mag, .45LC, .454 Casull, .475 Linebaugh, .50 AE and .500 Wyoming Express (Model 555). Barrel lengths include 3″, 4.75″, 6″, 7.5″, 9″, or 10″.
Freedom Arms Model 83. Image Credit: GunsAmerica
Model 97:
Introduced in 1997, this is Freedom Arms’ smaller frame single action revolver with automatic transfer bar safety. The Model 97 has five shot cylinders in the .40 calibers and six shot cylinders for everything else. Chambered in .17hmr, .22lr, .224-32 FA, .327 Federal, .357 Mag, .32 H&R Mag, .41 Rem. Mag, .44 Spl, and .45LC. Barrel lengths include 3.5″, 4.25″, 4.5″, 5.5″, 7.5″ and 10″.
Freedom Arms Model 97. Image Credit: Rock Island Auctions
Model 2008
Introduced in 2008, the model 2008 is a single shot break-open pistol with a free floated barrel, rebounding exposed hammer, action opening lever/top slide, and cam actuated extractor. Chambered in centerfire cartridges with interchangeable barrels. The 2008 is meant for use with a scope or RDS, although some barrels can be had with silhouette sights. Chambered in .223, 6.5CM, .243win, .260rem, 7mmBR, 7mm-08, .308, .338fed, .357 Mag, .357Max, .375win, .41 Mag, .44 Mag, .454 Casull, .460 S&W and .45-70. Barrel lengths include 10″, 15″, and 16″.
Freedom Arms Model 2008. Image Credit: GunsAmerica
Freedom Arms 2008 in .454. Image credit: Armslist
3. History
Dick Casull and Wayne Baker co-founded Freedom arms in the Idaho/Wyoming border town of Freedom, Wyoming in 1978. Their goal was to produce a single action revolver of the highest possible quality and tightest possible tolerances to showcase the .454 Casull cartridge (Casull designed this cartridge alongside Jack Fuller in 1957). In the meantime, they would use Casull’s mini-revolver design to get the company up and running. Freedom Arms’ mini revolvers were the first to use the “belt buckle” holster. If this rings a bell, it is because after Freedom Arms ceased production of their mini revolver, North American Arms bought the design and continues to produce such firearms.
In 1983, their goal of having a perfect platform for the .454 was realized in the release of the Model 83. The Model 97, a smaller framed single action revolver, refined with an automatic transfer bar safety, came about in 1997. Freedom’s latest invention is the model 2008, a highly innovative break action single shot handgun for longer range hunting, chambered in many rifle as well as pistol calibers.
A major force in the firearms and ammunition community, Dick Casull has since passed away. Wayne Baker has passed the reins of the company to his son, Bob, who currently runs Freedom Arms.
4. Locations/Facilities
Freedom Arms production Facility and headquarters has always located in Freedom, WY.
5. TFB News
New 224-32 FA cartridge
Freedom Arms are producing reloading equipment for what is probably the first new cartridge of 2009. The 224-32 FA is a .327 Federal Magnum necked down to .224. The result is a high velocity rimmed revolver cartridge suitable for varminting. It is was not rimmed it [Read More…]
6. Freedom Arms FAQ:
Q: Where can I find manuals for my out of production mini-revolver or other Freedom Arms firearms. ?
A: Manuals can be found here.
Q: What are the main differences between the Model 83 and the Model 97?
A: Frame size and weight is reduced with the Model 97. The Model 83 has a manual sliding bar safety and the Model 97 has an automatic transfer bar safety. Model 83 revolvers all have 5 shot cylinders, while some Model 97’s have six shot cylinders.
Where to Buy:
Freedom Arms revolvers and single shot handguns are “semi-custom” and usually made to order. However, here is a link to their dealer list, or you can call Freedom Arms at 307-883-2468 to place an order.