Gun Barons: the men, the weapons and the history

Gun Barons: The Weapons that transformed America and the Men who invented them by John Bainbridge Jr is a historical account of the evolution of firearms in the 19th century. The men whose names have become synonymous with American guns. Names like Colt, Smith & Wesson, Winchester and Remington are legendary and are a part of the American story of ingenuity. However, their beginnings and their journey into legend isn’t as well known. These men were at the right time with the inventions. From the westward expansions in the 1840s to the Civil War and into the Gilded Age and through their own trials and tribulations, bankruptcy and competition, these men became legends in the American ideal of individualism They helped bring America as one of the world’s industrial powers. Gun Barons tells the stories behind the men and the guns that made them famous. 

Gun Barons presents an interesting history and sets out to capture the boldness and ingenuity of not just these famous gun makers but the people who bought their guns as well. I found it fascinating to read the stories behind the men and their famous names. I also loved hearing about the lesser known men who helped the legends. Names like the White Brothers, Rollin, Josiah Dennis “JD” and Mason who all worked for Samuel Colt, Christopher Spencer, and John May Davies. At one point, the author presents the competition between the Henry and Spencer rifles. However, I would have appreciated pictures that showed the differences visually. As a gun novice, I do not know the differences and nuances between guns. Overall, it was an interesting read about the history of guns in America. If you are interested in the history or the evolution of guns in the 19th century, I recommend Gun Barons. 

Gun Barons: The Weapons that transformed America and the Men who invented them

is available in hardcover, eBook, and audiobook