The Wyatt Earp Colt Buntline: Separating Fact from Fiction in the Wild West Legend
The name Wyatt Earp conjures images of the Wild West, gunfights at the O.K. Corral, and the legendary Colt Buntline Special. The connection between Wyatt Earp and the Colt Buntline pistol has become ingrained in popular culture, but how much of this association is based on historical fact versus embellished legend? This article delves into the history of Wyatt Earp, the purported Colt Buntline Special, and the complex relationship between these two icons of the American West. We’ll explore the truth behind the tales, examine the firearms themselves, and separate the myths from the realities of this enduring legend. We aim to provide a comprehensive and authoritative account, drawing on historical records, firearms expertise, and a critical examination of the available evidence.
The Enigmatic Wyatt Earp: Lawman and Legend
Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp (1848-1929) was a complex figure whose life spanned various roles: farmer, teamster, buffalo hunter, saloon keeper, lawman, gambler, and mining speculator. His reputation rests largely on his involvement in the gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona Territory, in 1881. While the gunfight itself lasted only about 30 seconds, it has been immortalized in countless books, movies, and television shows, solidifying Earp’s image as a fearless and decisive lawman.
Earp’s early life was characterized by frequent moves and a variety of occupations. He held law enforcement positions in several towns, including Wichita and Dodge City, Kansas, before arriving in Tombstone. His time in Tombstone was marked by political rivalries, conflicts with outlaw gangs (most notably the Cowboys), and the infamous gunfight. After Tombstone, Earp continued to pursue various ventures, including mining and gambling, before eventually settling in California.
It’s essential to acknowledge that historical accounts of Earp’s life are often contradictory and influenced by personal biases. Some portray him as a heroic figure who upheld law and order in a lawless land, while others depict him as a ruthless opportunist who abused his authority. Understanding these different perspectives is crucial to forming a balanced view of Wyatt Earp, the man behind the legend.
The Colt Buntline Special: A Firearm Shrouded in Mystery
The Colt Buntline Special is a long-barreled variant of the Colt Single Action Army revolver, purportedly commissioned by dime novelist Ned Buntline (the pen name of Edward Zane Carroll Judson Sr.) and presented to several lawmen in the American West. The most famous recipient is said to have been Wyatt Earp. These revolvers were rumored to have 12-inch barrels, although some accounts suggest even longer lengths. The Buntline Special’s association with Wyatt Earp has cemented its place in firearms history and popular culture.
However, the existence of the Colt Buntline Special and its connection to Wyatt Earp has been the subject of considerable debate among historians and firearms experts. No original Colt Buntline revolvers have ever been definitively traced back to Earp or other historical figures. The primary source for the Buntline story is a letter written by Earp biographer Stuart Lake in the 1930s, decades after the alleged events took place. Lake’s account has been questioned for its accuracy and embellishments.
Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, the legend of the Colt Buntline Special persists. Replicas and commemorative editions of the revolver have been produced by Colt and other manufacturers, further solidifying its place in the popular imagination. Whether a historical reality or a product of romanticized storytelling, the Colt Buntline Special remains an iconic symbol of the Wild West.
Unraveling the Connection: Wyatt Earp and the Buntline
The connection between Wyatt Earp and the Colt Buntline Special hinges largely on the aforementioned Stuart Lake’s biography, “Wyatt Earp: Frontier Marshal,” published in 1931. In this book, Lake claims that Ned Buntline presented Earp and four other lawmen with specially made Colt revolvers with 12-inch barrels. Lake’s account describes Earp using the Buntline Special in various gunfights and other exploits.
However, Lake’s biography has been heavily criticized for its factual inaccuracies and embellishments. Many historians believe that Lake fabricated or exaggerated aspects of Earp’s life to create a more appealing narrative. There is no contemporary evidence to support Lake’s claim about the Buntline Special, and Earp himself never mentioned receiving such a revolver in any of his own writings or interviews.
Furthermore, firearms experts have raised doubts about the practicality of the Buntline Special. A 12-inch barrel would have made the revolver unwieldy and difficult to conceal, making it less suitable for close-quarters gunfights. Some historians suggest that Earp may have carried a standard-length Colt Single Action Army revolver, which would have been more practical for his line of work.
Examining the Evidence: Historical Records and Firearms Analysis
To assess the validity of the Wyatt Earp Colt Buntline legend, it’s essential to examine the available historical records and analyze the firearms themselves. Colt Manufacturing Company’s archives contain no record of a special order for Buntline revolvers with 12-inch barrels. This absence of documentation casts further doubt on Lake’s account.
While Colt did produce revolvers with longer barrels on special order, these were typically intended for target shooting or hunting, not for law enforcement. A 12-inch barrel would have significantly increased the weight and length of the revolver, making it less convenient to carry and use in a fast-draw situation. Lawmen of the era generally preferred shorter-barreled revolvers that could be easily concealed and drawn quickly.
Furthermore, no surviving photographs or eyewitness accounts depict Wyatt Earp carrying a Colt Buntline Special. While photographs can be misleading, the absence of any visual evidence supports the argument that Earp never owned or used such a revolver. The available evidence suggests that the Colt Buntline Special is more of a product of popular imagination than a historical reality.
The Colt Single Action Army: Earp’s Likely Weapon of Choice
While the Colt Buntline Special remains a subject of debate, it is far more likely that Wyatt Earp carried a standard Colt Single Action Army revolver. The Single Action Army, also known as the Peacemaker, was the most popular handgun of the American West. It was reliable, accurate, and chambered in a powerful cartridge, making it a favorite among lawmen, cowboys, and outlaws alike.
The Colt Single Action Army was available in various barrel lengths, typically ranging from 4.75 inches to 7.5 inches. A shorter barrel would have been easier to conceal and draw quickly, while a longer barrel would have provided slightly better accuracy at longer ranges. Earp likely chose a barrel length that suited his personal preferences and needs.
Numerous historical accounts and photographs depict lawmen of the era carrying Colt Single Action Army revolvers. It is reasonable to assume that Wyatt Earp, as a lawman, would have also carried this popular and effective firearm. While the Buntline Special may be more romanticized, the Single Action Army was the workhorse of the Wild West, and a far more probable choice for Earp.
The Enduring Appeal of the Wyatt Earp Legend
Despite the lack of definitive evidence, the legend of Wyatt Earp and the Colt Buntline Special continues to captivate audiences. The story embodies the romanticized image of the Wild West, with its fearless lawmen, daring gunfights, and sense of adventure. The Buntline Special, with its long barrel and imposing appearance, adds to the mystique and drama of the tale.
The Wyatt Earp legend has been perpetuated through countless books, movies, and television shows. These fictionalized accounts often portray Earp as a larger-than-life hero who single-handedly brought law and order to the Wild West. While these portrayals may not be entirely accurate, they have contributed to the enduring popularity of the Earp legend.
The story of Wyatt Earp and the Colt Buntline Special also reflects our fascination with firearms and the role they played in shaping the American West. The Buntline Special, whether real or imagined, represents the power and mystique of the six-shooter, a symbol of both law and lawlessness in the frontier era.
Separating Myth from Reality: A Critical Assessment
While the Wyatt Earp Colt Buntline legend is undoubtedly compelling, it’s crucial to separate myth from reality. The available evidence suggests that the Buntline Special was likely a product of Stuart Lake’s imagination, or at best, an exaggeration of a minor detail. There is no concrete proof that Earp ever owned or used such a revolver.
However, the lack of a Buntline Special does not diminish Wyatt Earp’s significance as a historical figure. He was a complex and controversial individual who played a role in the turbulent history of the American West. His involvement in the gunfight at the O.K. Corral and his subsequent career as a lawman and gambler have cemented his place in American folklore.
Ultimately, the story of Wyatt Earp and the Colt Buntline Special serves as a reminder that history is often a blend of fact and fiction. Legends can be powerful and enduring, even when they are not entirely accurate. The key is to approach these stories with a critical eye, examining the available evidence and acknowledging the limitations of our knowledge.
The Modern Legacy: Replicas and Collectibles
Despite the historical uncertainties, the Colt Buntline Special continues to be a popular firearm among collectors and enthusiasts. Colt and other manufacturers have produced numerous replicas and commemorative editions of the revolver, catering to the demand for this iconic piece of Wild West history. These replicas often feature 12-inch barrels, as well as custom engraving and other embellishments.
The Colt Buntline Special has also appeared in numerous movies and television shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture. These appearances have helped to maintain interest in the revolver and its connection to Wyatt Earp. While the historical accuracy of these portrayals may be questionable, they have undoubtedly contributed to the Buntline Special’s enduring appeal.
Whether viewed as a historical artifact or a symbol of the Wild West, the Colt Buntline Special remains a fascinating and controversial firearm. Its association with Wyatt Earp has cemented its place in American folklore, even if the connection is more legend than fact.
Wyatt Earp’s Firearms Legacy: Beyond the Buntline
While the Colt Buntline Special may be the most famous firearm associated with Wyatt Earp, it’s important to remember that he likely carried other weapons throughout his life. As a lawman, he would have relied on a variety of firearms to protect himself and enforce the law. These may have included shotguns, rifles, and other handguns.
Earp’s choice of firearms likely varied depending on the situation and his personal preferences. He may have carried a shotgun for hunting or for defending himself against multiple attackers. He may have carried a rifle for longer-range engagements. And he likely carried a handgun, such as the Colt Single Action Army, for everyday carry and close-quarters combat.
Ultimately, Wyatt Earp’s legacy as a lawman is not defined by any single firearm, but by his actions and his role in shaping the history of the American West. The Colt Buntline Special may be a romanticized symbol of that legacy, but it is only one piece of a much larger and more complex story.
The Wyatt Earp Colt Buntline: An Enduring Enigma
The story of Wyatt Earp and the Colt Buntline Special is a fascinating blend of history, legend, and popular culture. While the historical evidence suggests that the Buntline Special was likely a myth, the story continues to captivate audiences and fuel our fascination with the Wild West. The enduring appeal of the Wyatt Earp Colt Buntline lies in its ability to transport us to a bygone era of cowboys, lawmen, and gunfights, an era that continues to shape our collective imagination. Share your thoughts on the Earp legend and the Buntline myth in the comments section below.
