Throwback Thursday: Fastest Gun in the World?

First, let's make sure we're asking the right question!

by
posted on December 28, 2023
ed-mcgivern-colt-saa.jpg

What is the world's fastest gun? Right now, you may be looking at the photo above and wondering if we could possibly be claiming that the world's fastest gun is a Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army. We aren't, but that's because "what is the world's fastest gun" is the wrong question. The right question is, who? The answer is complex, and it's the subject of today's Throwback Thursday.

Today, we're visiting the remarkable confluence of one of America's most iconic firearms with one of America's most iconic exhibition shooters, a man who is known as "The World's Fastest Gun" even now, 60 years after his passing. His name is Ed McGivern.

Coincidentally, both the Colt in question and McGivern entered the world at about the same time, in 1873. Although wheelgun technology had actually been around since the Renaissance period in Europe, Samuel Colt was the first innovator who was able to turn what had previously been a curiosity into a a commodity that could be manufactured en masse. The 1873 model was unique in that it was chambered for the .45 Colt, which at the time was the most powerful cartridge available. Reliable, powerful and simple to operate, it was an instant hit with the military and civilians alike. It's a testament to the staying power of this firearm that Colt still makes them to this day. 

McGivern, however, didn't reach the peak of his fame until 1932, when he earned himself a place in the Guinness Book of World Records by drawing his gun from its holster and firing five shots from 15 feet into an area a little over an inch wide in less than half a second. Although many attempts at defeating this particular record have been made, so far none have succeeded. He didn't perform this feat with the firearm pictured above—that was achieved with a Smith & Wesson Model 10 double-action revolver—but it is from his personal collection, and now resides at the NRA National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Virginia. 

So, a better question might be, who is the world's fastest gun today? The best answer is no doubt Jerry Miculek, who holds countless world records for speed- and accuracy-shooting—as well as the closest attempt at McGivern's record. For those of us who enjoy watching exhibition shooting, a McGivern vs. Miculek contest would definitely be the most thrilling match-up we could imagine.

To catch a glimpse of Miculek in action, click here.  
To learn more about the iconic Colt Model 1873, click here

Latest

Legacy Shockey Lede
Legacy Shockey Lede

NRA Family Entertainment: "Legacy," Featuring Jim Shockey & Christensen Arms

Attendees will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a world premiere film in an intimate setting with hunt legend Jim Shockey.

The NRA Foundation Supports USA Shooting's Olympic Goals

The NRA Foundation’s support will help USA Shooting athletes represent the United States at the highest levels of competition in international shooting events.

Throwback Thursday: The Men & Guns of the Vietnam War

The most prominent firearm of the conflict in Vietnam is probably the M16 ... but its rise was anything but smooth.

Henry Repeating Arms' Guns for Great Causes: 50 Custom Rifles for Team Baylee

“There are few things in this world more unfair than a childhood cancer diagnosis,” said Anthony Imperato, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms.

5 Things to Ask Your Dove-Hunting Guide

Dove season is coming sooner than you know! Here's what to figure out ahead of time.

Coyote Pretty: Springfield Armory's New 1911 DS Prodigy Pistol Colorway

Springfield has just released this popular pistol in a Cerakote Coyote Brown finish ... and the last thing you could call it is "coyote ugly."

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.