Welcome to at present’s Photo of the Day! This Smith & Wesson .38 Navy & Police revolver isn’t only a firearm—it’s arguably probably the most documented speed-shooting revolver in American historical past. Initially shipped to the Anaconda Copper Mining Firm in Montana on September 26, 1917, this 6-inch barreled goal mannequin would discover its approach into the palms of Ed McGivern, the person Elmer Keith referred to as “the quickest and most interesting double-action revolver shot that ever lived.” The revolver’s historic significance is completely memorialized by two gold inscription plates mounted straight on its body. The best facet plate information McGivern’s February 10, 1924 feats on the Judith Theatre in Lewistown, Montana, the place he fired six photographs in an astonishing 4/5ths of a second—a charge sooner than trendy computerized weapons. The left plate commemorates his December 13, 1931 demonstration for the Lewistown Police Division.
McGivern’s modifications to the revolver reveal his technical experience. He changed the manufacturing facility Marble Sheard entrance sight with a King gold beaded blade and put in an adjustable “U” notch rear sight—his most popular setup for the lightning-fast goal acquisition his taking pictures type demanded. The revolver retains its authentic gold S&W medallion checkered walnut grips. This particular revolver seems on web page 140 of McGivern’s seminal 1938 ebook “Quick and Fancy Revolver Taking pictures,” related to his specifically designed timing machine (verified correct by the U.S. Bureau of Requirements). It was with this very gun that McGivern established information that stay unbroken at present, together with drawing and firing 5 photographs right into a 1-inch group at 20 ft in simply 9/20ths of a second. The gun’s provenance is impeccable—documented by means of letters between McGivern and S&W Vice President Douglas B. Wesson, who acquired this revolver from McGivern in 1935 as partial fee for one of many first .357 Magnum revolvers ever produced (Registered Magnum No. 8). Past its mechanical excellence, this revolver represents the golden age of exhibition taking pictures and stands as tangible proof of human functionality that many nonetheless discover tough to imagine potential.
“Ed McGivern’s Smith & Wesson Navy & Police Goal Revolver.” Rock Island Public sale Firm, https://www.rockislandauction.com/element/4094/1540/ed-mcgiverns-smith-wesson-military-police-target-revolver. Accessed 12 Could 2025.
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