Smith and Wesson vs. Colt Revolvers: Gun Guys Ep. 45 with Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn

Published on October 8, 2021
Duration: 8:08

This video features Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn engaging in a detailed comparison of two iconic revolvers: the Colt Shooting Master and the Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum. They delve into the historical context of their production during the Depression era, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship and rare features of each. The discussion emphasizes the unique qualities that make these pre-war revolvers highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Quick Summary

Bill Wilson and Ken Hackathorn compare the Colt Shooting Master and Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum, highlighting their exceptional Depression-era craftsmanship and historical significance. They discuss rare calibers, unique features, and the superior 'long action' of pre-war S&W revolvers, marking these firearms as pinnacles of American gunmaking.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt vs. S&W Revolvers
  2. 00:43Colt Shooting Master Presentation
  3. 00:53S&W Registered Magnum Presentation
  4. 01:13Depression-Era Craftsmanship Discussion
  5. 02:10Colt Shooting Master Caliber Rarity
  6. 03:08Colt Shooting Master Features & Ed McGivern
  7. 05:23S&W Registered Magnum Features
  8. 06:28Action Comparison: Long vs. Short Action
  9. 07:15Conclusion: Rarity & Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Colt Shooting Master and Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum so special?

These revolvers are highly prized due to their exceptional craftsmanship, a result of Depression-era manufacturing where master gunsmiths dedicated significant time to each firearm. They represent a peak in pre-war American revolver production, featuring rare calibers and unique design elements that make them historically significant and valuable collector's items.

How did the manufacturing era affect the quality of these revolvers?

During the Great Depression, low sales volumes allowed master craftsmen to spend more time on each individual firearm. This resulted in unparalleled quality, fit, and finish for models like the Colt Shooting Master and Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum, making them superior to many mass-produced firearms that followed.

What are the key differences between the Colt Shooting Master and the S&W Registered Magnum discussed?

The Colt Shooting Master is noted for its specific features like hand-checkering and unique sights, with rare .44 Special variants. The S&W Registered Magnum is highlighted for its overall finest production revolver status and its pre-war 'long action,' which offered a smoother double-action feel compared to later models.

Why is the pre-war 'long action' on S&W revolvers significant?

The pre-war Smith & Wesson 'long action' is significant because it provided a notably smoother and more refined double-action trigger pull. While later 'short actions' were developed, they often compromised this smooth feel, making the 'long action' highly desirable for collectors and shooters who appreciate the classic S&W action.

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