The Arms Race – The Colt vs. Wesson Story

A Different Era

Most gun connoisseurs are aware of the modern-day rivalries. The AR vs. AK, Mauser vs. Lee Enfield and the 870 vs. 500. However, before all these rivalries came to be, the Colt vs. Wesson war defined the gun world.

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S&W No. 2 Army, top, and Colt Pocket Model of 1849, bottom. Source: ataleoftwothirties

Surprisingly, both these companies were conceptualized at almost the same time. Even more amazing is the fact that both companies went on brief breaks to re-strategize before venturing back into production. Concerning magnanimity, the rivalry was once compared to the Ford and Chevy rivalry in the automotive industry.

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