Coach guns originated in England in the early 17th century. They were popular as deterrents against stagecoach robbers. They are also called riding shotguns. Coach guns have a wider shot pattern. In addition, they are easier to handle than lever-action rifles. Let’s look at some of these guns. Listed below are a few examples.
Side-by-side break-open shotguns are the most common coach guns used during the Wild West era. This style of shotgun has two barrels, one on each side. Both barrels can hold a single shell. They are operated by a hinge located in front of the trigger. The break-open mechanism tilts the barrels downward. Coaches often carried shotguns in the back of their vehicles to protect the passengers.
Coach guns were also commonly used by the American Indians during this time period. The popular S&W Model 3 was issued to the U.S. Cavalry. Famous characters such as William F. Cody, Texas Jack Omohundro, El Paso City Marshal Dallas Stoudenmire, and John Wesley Hardin all carried this gun. In addition, a favored gun of the Wild West era was the Colt Single Action Army.
Among the most popular coaches guns of the Old West was the double-barreled shotgun, which was an invaluable tool in many ways. A double-barreled shotgun was a real workhorse in the Wild West, serving as a protection against robbers, outlaws, and other renegade characters. A few other coach guns used during this time were the Peacemakers and the faux Model 73.
