US Colt Model 1878 .45 Caliber ''Belly Gun''

By Crusader1307

Although better known in later decades as a ''Snub Nosed'' Revolver, The ''Belly Gun'' was a Class of Revolver that developed in the 1870s in The US. These weapons were noted for their very short barrels (in some case, no more that 1.5 to 2-inches in length). The term ''Belly Gun'' originated from One's ability to conceal said firearm underneath a shirt (either front or in the ''small of The Back''.

The Colt Firearms Company Model 1878 version was a popular weapon as a ''Hideaway'' for Gamblers and some Outlaws. They were also called ''Banker's Guns'' as they were used by Bank Managers and Clerks – as a means to protect themselves from Bank Robbers.

A .45 Caliber round, The Model 1878 fired (6) shots and were most effective at 10 to 20 feet. Over 165,000 were manufactured up to 1880 – making them a very popular Model with most who frequented Frontier Towns (Saloons, Gambling Halls etc.)