Guns of the Old West Fall 2023: It’s Autumn on the Frontier

We’re ready to jump into fall pursuits like using black powder rifles to put wild game in the family freezer. But first, how many of you realize that 2023 is an important year in Old West history? Well, this year marks the 150th anniversary of the Colt Single Action Army revolver, the Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle, and the Model 1873 Trapdoor Springfield rifle. We take a look at this iconic trio and more in the Fall 2023 issue of Guns of the Old West, details below.

Inside Guns of the Old West Fall 2023

The .45 Colt, .44 WCF (.44-40), and the .45-70 Govt cartridges were also introduced and chambered in the aforementioned firearms.

This year also marks the bicentennial of the Texas Rangers. Created in 1823, they were hired to protect the settlers Austin brought to Texas from the depredations of hostile Indians.

As time passed, their role evolved into a law enforcement organization. And their adversaries changed from hostile Indians to Mexican bandits, cattle rustlers, horse thieves, and stage, train, and bank robbers, plus other nefarious criminals.

In this issue, “LaVista” Bell takes an in-depth look at all three and discusses their importance in the winning of the West. We also look back at Pietta’s sixty years of tradition. Bob Arganbright follows Clint Eastwood through his gun leather journey. And we show you how to spot a fake while shopping for an antique firearm.

Another staple company celebrating an anniversary is Hodgdon—the great powder company. Fresh off celebrating 75 years, writer Frank Melloni received an exclusive invitation from Chris Hodgon himself to their coveted Flint Oak event.

On page 90, he shares his firsthand experience from the exclusive pheasant hunt. In addition, he discusses the historic company’s significance within black powder rifles.

The AF section in this issue also includes Josh Honeycutt’s 8-point lesson plan to have you and your firearm fully prepped for your next trophy buck. Likewise, furbearer expert Ralph Scherder’s “Trapping Tricks” will streamline your gear and strategies.

Andrew Knez pays tribute to the legendary Michael Severs, the American Frontiersman who turned the tide at the Battle of New Orleans. And on page 78 you’ll find Glenn Chapman’s short retrospective on the Davy Crockett Craze.

Listen to Your Favorite Gun Mags

Here’s a special note about digital subscriptions. If you’re one of those people who like to buy and listen to audio versions of books, then you’re in luck. All digital copies of Athlon Outdoors publications, including Ballistic, Combat Handguns, Tactical Life, Personal Defense World Concealed Carry Handguns, and Guns Of The Old West, sport the “mobile view” function.

This allows you to listen to each issue from any device… your smartphone, tablet, or work/personal computer. That’ll keep your hands and eyes free to take on other tasks like driving to work or the shooting range. Enjoy the new feature!

So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your copy today!