Virtual Tour: Cody Firearms Museum

Ashley Hlebinsky, Executive Director of the Firearms Research Center, provides an expert overview of modern historic firearm reproductions seen at SHOT Show 2026. The exploration covers Revolutionary War muskets, the historical origins of lever-action rifle designs, and contemporary models like the Smith & Wesson Model 1854 and the Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon. The presentation highlights the blend of historical significance and modern manufacturing.

This video features Ashley Hlebinsky, curator at the Cody Firearms Museum, showcasing a Thompson Submachine Gun, famously known as the "Tommy Gun." The segment is part of "The Gun Vault" series and highlights the museum's extensive collection located at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming. The video also promotes the NSSF (National Shooting Sports Foundation) and its associated initiatives like "Let's Go Shooting" and "Let's Go Hunting."

This video from SHOT Show 2017 features Annie Oakley's actual Winchester Model 1892 rifle, displayed at the Winchester booth. Ashley Hlebinsky from the Cody Firearms Museum provides historical context and information about this iconic firearm. The presentation offers a glimpse into a piece of firearms history and its connection to a legendary sharpshooter.

This video from The Gun Vault, featuring Ashley Hlebinsky from the Cody Firearms Museum, explores the history of a unique Winchester 1887 lever-action shotgun owned by automotive pioneer Henry Ford. The episode highlights the significance of this particular firearm within the context of both firearms history and its connection to a prominent historical figure. The video encourages viewers to visit the Cody Firearms Museum and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

This video from The Gun Vault series features Ashley Hlebinsky, Curator at the Cody Firearms Museum, discussing the history of a Colt Bisley Revolver once owned by the highly decorated World War II hero, Audie Murphy. The museum, part of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, is highlighted as a significant resource for firearms history and research.

This video offers a comprehensive virtual tour of the newly renovated Cody Firearms Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Lead Firearms Instructor Ian McCallum provides an expert-level overview of the museum's reorganized layout, which now emphasizes chronological and thematic arrangements over manufacturer-based displays. The tour highlights an extensive collection of firearms dating back to 650 BCE, including notable prototypes, military arms, and embellished pieces, showcasing advancements in manufacturing and firearm technology. McCallum highly recommends a visit to this significantly updated facility.

This guide details the specific technique for separating two MAS-36 rifles that have been inadvertently locked together by their bayonets. It outlines the historical context of this issue, the modification made to the bayonet to resolve it, and the step-by-step procedure for disengagement. The technique requires precise alignment and the use of a pointed tool to access the internal release mechanism, as demonstrated by firearms expert Ian McCollum.

This guide details the loading and firing procedure for the M134 Minigun, as explained by Ian McCollum. It covers manual indexing of the barrel cluster, feeding the ammunition belt, engaging controls, and firing. The guide also touches upon the weapon's spin-down inertia and the function of modern clutch systems. Expert instruction from a recognized firearms historian highlights the technical aspects of operating this powerful weapon system.

This guide details the operational features of the H&K G11 K2, a prototype assault rifle known for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt. It covers the selector settings, magazine capacity, integrated optics, and the internal action designed for recoil management during high-rate-of-fire bursts. Expert insights from Ian McCollum highlight the historical context and technical innovations of this advanced firearm.

This guide details the operation of the German L.Gr.W.36 50mm light mortar, as demonstrated by expert Ian McCollum. It covers assembly, leveling procedures, ammunition handling, and live fire execution, emphasizing the difficulty in visually tracking the projectile. The instruction highlights the importance of proper setup for accuracy.