The Old West was shaped as much by firearms as by frontier towns, railroads, and lawmen chasing dust clouds across open plains. For famous outlaws, a gun was more than a tool. It was protection, intimidation, survival, and reputation rolled into cold steel and oiled wood. Certain firearms became inseparable from the men who carried them, gaining legendary status through robberies, shootouts, and narrow escapes. These weapons were not always rare or custom-made, but they were trusted, familiar, and deadly effective in skilled hands. From revolvers worn low on gun belts to repeating rifles carried into ambushes, each firearm tells a story of crime, courage, and chaos. This list explores twenty legendary guns tied directly to the most infamous outlaws of the American frontier, explaining why each weapon mattered and how it earned its place in Wild West history.
1. Colt Single Action Army
The Colt Single Action Army became forever linked to Jesse James, one of the most notorious outlaws of the Old West. Introduced in 1873, this revolver was prized for its balance, reliability, and stopping power. James favored the .45 Colt version, which delivered heavy lead bullets capable of decisive damage at close range. Its simple design allowed fast repairs and dependable performance even after long rides through dust and rain. For an outlaw constantly on the move, that reliability meant survival. The revolver’s solid frame and smooth trigger pull made it ideal for quick draws during sudden encounters. Over time, the Colt Peacemaker became a symbol of frontier violence and personal authority, and Jesse James helped cement its legend through daring robberies and deadly confrontations.
2. Smith & Wesson Model 3
Billy the Kid was closely associated with the Smith & Wesson Model 3, a top-break revolver admired for its speed and modern design. Unlike older revolvers, the Model 3 allowed all spent cartridges to be ejected at once, making reloads faster during gunfights. Chambered commonly in .44 caliber, it offered serious power in a compact package. Billy valued quick handling and rapid fire, and this revolver suited his aggressive style. Its precision machining and smooth action made it popular among both lawmen and criminals. In the Kid’s hands, the Model 3 became a lethal companion in ambushes and escapes, reinforcing his reputation as one of the deadliest young guns in Western history.
3. Winchester Model 1873
The Winchester Model 1873 earned the nickname “The Gun That Won the West,” and it was a favorite of Butch Cassidy. This lever-action rifle fired powerful cartridges with accuracy and speed, making it ideal for ambushes and long-range intimidation. Cassidy favored the rifle for its dependable feeding system and ability to fire multiple rounds quickly without losing aim. Its solid construction handled rough travel across deserts and mountains with ease. For train robberies and standoffs, the Winchester provided reach that revolvers could not match. In outlaw hands, it became a tool of control, allowing Cassidy and his gang to dominate scenes before law enforcement could respond.
4. Colt 1860 Army
Wild Bill Hickok was known for carrying a pair of Colt 1860 Army revolvers, often worn butt forward for cross-draw use. These cap and ball revolvers were respected for their accuracy and smooth handling. Chambered in .44 caliber, they delivered enough power to stop a threat quickly. Hickok was meticulous about his weapons, keeping them clean and perfectly tuned. The long barrel provided better sight alignment, which suited his calm and deliberate shooting style. His legendary gunfight reputation was built on precision rather than speed alone. The Colt 1860 Army became an extension of Hickok’s disciplined approach to violence on the frontier.
5. Remington Model 1875
Frank James, brother of Jesse James, often relied on the Remington Model 1875 revolver. This firearm was valued for its solid frame and strong construction, which handled heavy use better than many competitors. Chambered in powerful calibers like .44 Remington, it delivered consistent performance under stress. The Remington’s grip angle and balance made it comfortable during extended carry. Frank preferred its durability during long rides and repeated encounters. While less flashy than Colt models, the Remington earned respect through dependability. In the hands of Frank James, it served as a steady companion throughout years of outlaw activity and close calls.
6. Winchester Model 1892
Black Bart, known for his polite manners and clever robberies, favored the Winchester Model 1892. This lighter and more compact rifle improved handling without sacrificing firepower. Designed by John Moses Browning, it offered smoother action and increased strength. Bart valued the ease of carrying during stagecoach robberies and escapes on foot. Chambered for revolver cartridges, it allowed ammunition compatibility with sidearms. The rifle’s accuracy and reliability fit Bart’s calculated approach to crime. Though he avoided violence when possible, the presence of a Winchester 1892 ensured compliance and made his robberies swift and controlled.
7. Colt Single Action Army
Billy the Kid also carried a Colt Single Action Army revolver, which complemented his fast and fearless fighting style. The revolver’s crisp trigger and predictable recoil allowed rapid follow-up shots. Its .45 caliber rounds delivered serious impact at close range, which was common in frontier confrontations. Billy appreciated the revolver’s simplicity, knowing it would function even when poorly maintained. The gun’s balance made it ideal for quick draws and instinctive shooting. Combined with his natural aggression, the Colt Peacemaker enhanced Billy’s reputation as a dangerous and unpredictable gunfighter.
8. Winchester Model 1876
Sam Bass favored the Winchester Model 1876, a powerful lever-action rifle designed for larger cartridges. This firearm was heavier than earlier models but offered greater stopping power at longer distances. Bass used it during train robberies where intimidation mattered as much as firepower. The rifle’s rugged design handled repeated firing without failure. Its presence alone often discouraged resistance. For an outlaw targeting valuable shipments, the Winchester 1876 provided authority and reach. Bass relied on it to control chaotic situations and make clean escapes before lawmen could organize a response.
9. Smith & Wesson Schofield
Jesse Evans, leader of the Evans Gang, carried the Smith & Wesson Schofield revolver. This firearm was favored by cavalry units due to its fast reloading system. Chambered in .45 caliber, it delivered solid power with improved efficiency. Evans valued the ability to reload quickly during prolonged fights. The Schofield’s smooth action and dependable ejection system made it practical in dusty conditions. For gang conflicts and sudden shootouts, speed mattered. The revolver’s military roots gave Evans confidence that it would perform when needed most.
10. Colt 1877 Lightning
Doc Holliday often carried the Colt 1877 Lightning, a double-action revolver that allowed faster firing than single-action designs. Chambered in .38 or .41 caliber, it suited Holliday’s preference for quick, close-range encounters. Though known to be mechanically delicate, the Lightning offered rapid trigger pulls that fit Doc’s gambling hall confrontations. He valued concealability and speed over brute force. The revolver’s compact frame made it easy to carry discreetly. In tense saloon disputes, the Colt Lightning provided Doc Holliday with a fast and decisive advantage.
11. Remington New Model Army
Cole Younger frequently used the Remington New Model Army revolver, a trusted cap-and-ball design. Known for its solid frame, it handled black powder loads safely and consistently. The revolver’s accuracy made it effective in both mounted and dismounted fights. Younger appreciated its durability during long campaigns with the James Younger Gang. The Remington’s design allowed cylinder swaps, increasing firing endurance. In chaotic robberies and pursuits, that feature mattered. The New Model Army helped Cole Younger survive years of violent encounters across the Midwest.
12. Winchester Model 1894
Kid Curry, the deadliest member of the Wild Bunch, favored the Winchester Model 1894. This rifle was lighter and faster handling than earlier designs. Chambered in smokeless powder cartridges, it delivered improved velocity and cleaner firing. Curry valued its accuracy during ambushes against pursuing lawmen. The rifle’s modern design reflected his ruthless efficiency. With faster cycling and reduced recoil, it allowed rapid engagement of multiple targets. In Kid Curry’s hands, the Winchester 1894 became a feared weapon that reinforced his violent reputation.
13. Colt 1851 Navy
John Wesley Hardin was known to carry the Colt 1851 Navy revolver early in his violent career. Chambered in .36 caliber, it was admired for balance and accuracy. Hardin valued precise shot placement over raw power. The revolver’s slim profile made it comfortable for constant carry. Its reliability in skilled hands made it deadly despite the smaller caliber. Hardin’s use of the Colt Navy reflected his calculated approach to gunfighting. He relied on accuracy and speed to dominate opponents in sudden confrontations.
14. Smith & Wesson No. 2
Belle Starr, the so-called Queen of the Outlaws, often carried a Smith & Wesson No. 2 revolver. This small, rimfire handgun was easy to conceal and quick to deploy. While not as powerful as larger revolvers, it was reliable and accurate at close range. Belle favored practicality and portability during travel and social encounters. The revolver fit her need for personal protection rather than intimidation. Its discreet design suited her unpredictable lifestyle. In a dangerous world, the Smith & Wesson No. 2 offered Belle Starr peace of mind.
15. Winchester Model 1866
James Younger frequently used the Winchester Model 1866, known for its distinctive brass frame. This lever-action rifle offered rapid fire and dependable operation. Chambered in .44 Henry, it provided sufficient power for close to medium range engagements. Younger valued its smooth action during coordinated robberies. The rifle’s capacity allowed sustained fire without frequent reloading. Its striking appearance also carried a psychological impact. The Winchester 1866 helped James Younger establish control during high-risk criminal operations.
16. Colt Single Action Army
Tom Horn, a hired gun and outlaw, relied on the Colt Single Action Army for personal defense. Horn valued accuracy and consistency above all else. The revolver’s simple mechanism suited his methodical approach. Chambered in .45 Colt, it delivered decisive force with each shot. Horn maintained his weapons meticulously, ensuring reliability. The Colt’s predictable handling allowed deliberate shooting. In dangerous assignments, this revolver served as a dependable tool rather than a symbol.
17. Sharps Rifle
Though often associated with scouts, the Sharps rifle was also used by outlaw figures like Billy Dixon. Known for exceptional accuracy, it fired large caliber cartridges suitable for long-range shots. Dixon valued precision and stopping power. The rifle’s heavy construction absorbed recoil and improved stability. In open terrain, the Sharps offered dominance. Its reputation for extreme accuracy made it feared. For marksmen operating outside the law, the Sharps rifle represented ultimate control over distance.
18. Colt 1878 Frontier
Jim Miller carried the Colt 1878 Frontier revolver, a double-action design chambered in .45 caliber. This revolver allowed both rapid firing and deliberate single-action shots. Miller appreciated its versatility during sudden confrontations. The heavy frame managed recoil effectively. Though less refined than later models, it offered strength and power. Miller’s violent career relied on surprise and speed. The Colt 1878 supported both, making it a practical choice for a ruthless outlaw.
19. Winchester Model 1873
The Sundance Kid favored the Winchester Model 1873 for its balance and proven reliability. Chambered in .44 40, it paired well with revolvers using the same ammunition. Sundance valued efficiency and logistics during long runs. The rifle’s smooth lever action allowed fast follow-up shots. Its accuracy supported ambush tactics. For an outlaw constantly evading capture, the Winchester 1873 provided confidence. It became a trusted companion during the Wild Bunch’s most daring crimes.
20. Colt Single Action Army
Butch Cassidy also relied on the Colt Single Action Army as a sidearm. Chambered in .45 Colt, it offered consistent power in a familiar platform. Cassidy preferred reliability over innovation. The revolver’s ease of maintenance suited life on the run. Its balance allowed a quick response during sudden danger. Combined with his leadership style, the Colt symbolized authority. In both planning and execution, Cassidy trusted this revolver to protect his life and reputation.
