Gun Orphan
Gun Orphan: The Story of a Forgotten Relic
When it comes to firearms, it’s not uncommon for collectors and enthusiasts to seek out rare and unique pieces that tell a story of their own. However, just like in any other field, there are some relics that have simply been overlooked or forgotten over time. One such firearm is the Gun Orphan, a fascinating piece of history that embodies the spirit of determination and innovation.
What is a Gun Orphan?
Before delving into the history behind the Gun Orphan, it’s important to understand what it actually is. Essentially, a Gun Orphan is a firearm that has been manufactured by a company that no longer exists. These guns were typically produced in the early 20th century and were often overlooked due to the fact that they were not produced by major manufacturers such as Winchester or Colt.
Gun Orphans range from revolvers to shotguns, but they all share one commonality: they were produced by companies that are no longer in business. For instance, the H&R Topper shotgun is considered a Gun Orphan because it was manufactured by the Harrington & Richardson company, which went out of business in the early 2000s.
The History of Gun Orphan
One of the most intriguing Gun Orphans is the Lefever Nitro Special shotgun, which was produced by the Lefever Arms Company in Syracuse, New York. Lefever was founded in 1880 and quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality firearms. However, when the company was sold to Ithaca Gun Company in 1915, Lefever disappeared from the market entirely.
The Nitro Special shotgun was produced by Lefever from 1921-1947, and was known for its double-barreled design and reliable performance. Despite its popularity, the Nitro Special was eventually overshadowed by more modern shotguns and eventually became a forgotten relic of the past.
Other classic Gun Orphans include the Hopkins and Allen XL No. 2 revolver, which was produced by the Hopkins and Allen company from 1871 to 1916. This revolver was designed as a pocket gun and was popular among law enforcement officers and civilians alike. However, due to the rise of more modern revolvers, the XL No. 2 eventually fell out of favor and the Hopkins and Allen company folded in 1916.
Why Should Gun Orphans Be Celebrated?
Although Gun Orphans may not be as recognizable as other firearms produced by major manufacturers, they still hold immense value for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Gun Orphans represent a unique piece of history and provide a tangible connection to a bygone era of American innovation and craftsmanship.
Furthermore, Gun Orphans often have interesting stories behind them, making them a fascinating addition to any collection. For instance, the Hopkins and Allen XL No. 2 revolver was used by both police officers and criminals, giving it a storied past that adds to its appeal.
For collectors, Gun Orphans can also be an affordable way to build a collection of antique firearms. Because Gun Orphans were often produced in smaller quantities and by less well-known manufacturers, they are typically more affordable than their more well-known counterparts.
Final Words
Gun Orphans may be a forgotten relic of the past, but they are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of American firearm manufacturers. These firearms represent a unique piece of history and offer collectors a tangible connection to the past. Whether you’re a collector or simply a fan of firearms, Gun Orphans are well worth exploring and celebrating.
