Legendary gunslinger Bat Masterson is facing a hangman's noose-unless his old friend Clint Adams can clear his name.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1883.

This provocative book debunks the myth that American gun culture was intentionally created by gun makers and demonstrates that gun ownership and use have been a core part of American society since our colonial origins. Revisionist historians argue that American gun culture and manufacturing are relatively recent developments. They further claim that widespread gun violence was largely absent from early American history because guns of all types, and especially handguns, were rare before 1848. According to these revisionists, American gun culture was the creation of the first mass production gun manufacturers, who used clever marketing to sell guns to people who neither wanted nor needed them. However, as proven in this first scholarly history of "gun culture" in early America, gun ownership and use have in fact been central to American society from its very beginnings. Lock, Stock, and Barrel: The Origins of American Gun Culture shows that gunsmithing and gun manufacturing were important parts of the economies of the colonies and the early republic and explains how the American gun industry helped to create our modern world of precision mass production and high wages for workers.

Unlock the secrets of a timeless craft with J. Parish Stelle and Wm. B. Harrison's definitive guide, "The Gunsmith's Manual: A Complete Handbook for the American Gunsmith." This comprehensive handbook is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the art and science of gunsmithing, providing practical guidance across all branches of the trade. Join master gunsmiths J. Parish Stelle and Wm. B. Harrison as they share their extensive knowledge and expertise in the intricate world of firearms craftsmanship. From the basics of metalworking and woodworking to advanced techniques in gun repair and customization, this manual covers every aspect of the trade in meticulous detail. Stelle and Harrison's work is rich with themes of precision, craftsmanship, and the preservation of traditional skills. Their detailed instructions and significant passages highlight the step-by-step processes and specialized tools required for gunsmithing. Quotes like, "In the hands of a skilled gunsmith, metal and wood transform into instruments of precision and power," emphasize the artistry and dedication involved in this craft. With a blend of technical detail and practical advice, "The Gunsmith's Manual" sets an informative and engaging tone that keeps readers captivated. From the construction of firearm components to the intricacies of fine-tuning and repair, Stelle and Harrison paint a vivid picture of the gunsmith's workshop. Their work transcends a mere instructional guide; it is a celebration of the craftsmanship and innovation that define the field of gunsmithing. Since its publication, "The Gunsmith's Manual" has been acclaimed for its thorough coverage and practical utility. Its enduring popularity speaks to Stelle and Harrison's ability to make the complexities of gunsmithing accessible and engaging, ensuring that the knowledge of this vital trade is passed down through generations. As you delve into "The Gunsmith's Manual," you'll find yourself drawn to its detailed explanations, practical tips, and engaging narrative. Stelle and Harrison's passion for their craft and their ability to convey complex techniques with clarity make this book a treasured resource for both aspiring and experienced gunsmiths. In conclusion, "The Gunsmith's Manual" is more than just a technical handbook—it is a timeless exploration of the art and science of gunsmithing that continues to inspire and educate readers. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a hobbyist, or someone discovering this trade for the first time, prepare to be informed and inspired by this essential guide. Don't miss your chance to master the craft of gunsmithing. Let "The Gunsmith's Manual" guide you through the intricate and rewarding world of firearm craftsmanship. Grab your copy now and join the readers who have benefited from Stelle and Harrison's expert guidance and comprehensive knowledge.

Originally published in 1883, The Gunsmith’s Manual is generally considered to be the first substantive work dealing with gunsmithing exclusively and in detail. A comprehensive introductory chapter, one of the manual’s best qualities, provides the reader with an extensive history of the gun, including the invention of gun powder, the first rifle, and much more. Once acquainted with firearms, readers can then move on to learn how guns were made and used in the nineteenth century, as well as terms used in gunsmithing. The real meat of the book, however, is the authors’ detailed instruction on gun care and maintenance. Specifics are offered on tools, workbench materials and setup, metalworking, working with wooden stocks, common repairs, and the process of browning, among many other topics. You can even improve your marksmanship with these expert shooting tips for a variety of firearms. Although first published in the nineteenth century, The Gunsmith’s Manual is highly relevant for today’s firearms owners and tinkerers. The authors’ recommended procedure for removing a rusted-in screw, for example, is still widely used over 100 years later. You can learn to care for your rifle or shotgun as traditional gunsmiths would have. For both the historian and the firearms enthusiast, The Gunsmith’s Manual is an invaluable learning tool.

Tracing the history and development of gun-making in Birmingham, England--for many years a center of the world's firearms industry--this book covers innovations in design and manufacture of both military and sporting arms from 1660 through 1960. The city is perhaps best known for mass-producing some of the most battle-tested weapons in history, including the Brown Bess musket, the Webley revolver and the Lee-Enfield rifle. Yet Birmingham's gun-makers have carried on a centuries-long tradition of crafting high quality hand-made sporting guns.