Sixguns

by Elmer Keith

From the back cover of the 1961 edition of Sixguns:

The author documents in this invaluable reference work his lifetime experiences and findings on this historic weapon. Elmer Keith, recognized as the world expert on guns, reports on new developments in arms and ammunition with a variety of splendid photographs of old and rare guns along with current American models. Included in his remarks is a treasury of absorbing information about marksmen with numerous illustrations of trick shooting, quick draws, hip-shooting and police training.

More than fifty years of experience and experimentation in handguns with Indian fighters, vigilantes and frontier lawmen makes Mr. Keith a specialist in his field. As the Cleveland Plain Dealer puts it, “Other books have been written on the revolver–other books will be written–but…Sixguns by Keith is and will remain the final authority.”

This 1961 revised edition contains a supplemental chapter which includes information about the .44 Magnum and other firearms developments that were groundbreaking in 1961.

For the eBook edition of "Sixguns" all of the images have been condensed at the end of the book to create a better and less interrupted reading experience.

About the Author:

Elmer Keith (1899-1984) was a rancher and firearms author who helped to develop the .357 Magnum, .41 Magnum, and .44 Magnum. Keith, an expert cartridge reloader, also developed his own style of semi-wadcutter bullet, called the Keith style bullet.

Keith served as a key link between the gunmen of the late 1800′s and modern firearm enthusiasts. His interactions with Civil War veterans and western gunfighters gave Keith unique knowledge which he carried well into the 20th century.

937 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1961

About the author

Elmer Keith was an Idaho rancher, firearms enthusiast, big game hunter and firearms writer. Among the many handgun and rifle loads that he helped to develop the two most famous would have to the 44 magnum and 41 magnum. At times Keith was described as cranky, obstinate and eccentic, but also outspoken,brilliant, generous and a good friend. Keith was unique and has earned himself a place in the history of American firearms and hunting.

Reviews

[Bill]

I met the author of Sixguns, Elmer Keith, numerous times. He told me several times: "I'm not a writer. I'm a reporter of facts." Critics say Keith was just a BS'er. Having read this book and referred to it numerous time over the past half century, I find it chocked full of facts. This book is an excellent reference of handgunning of all aspects and also a memoir for a true west American cowboy, shootist and hunter. If you read it, study it, pick at it, you'll find it's a lesson plan to mastering American revolvers. Keith was a master of firearms, especially the revolver - both the SAA and the DAs. Sixguns, the book, has been around for more than half a century but is an excellent read for all handgunners, be they target shooters, hunters or just students of American history. Sixguns is well illustrated with camptioned photographs of the guns being discussed and the author displaying them.

[Grant Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keith was amazing!

This is a fascinating book of Elmer Keith telling stories about his favorite firearm, the six shot revolver. I learned a lot about these guns, bullets and holsters. I’m impressed with how many of Keith’s ideas are still in use today, some of which are revered with almost religious respect. I have several revolvers and I love them all, but after reading this book, I think I need just one more. Make that two more.

[Brian Battles · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mandatory book for the gun owner

[Checkman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A terrific book. It is still very informative (despite the fact that it is fifty-six years old) and contains useful information on everything from shooting techniques to care and maintanence. Some of it is dated and some of his ideas are not politically correct in 2011, but the book is very readable. In addition it is now a great historical book. Elmer Keith is considered to be the creator (or at least one of the creators) of the 44 Magnum load and is a legend in the American gun-culture. He's been dead now for twenty-seven years so his books have become primary source material. It gives you a look at a different time. Highly recommended. Finding it will take some effort and it won't be cheap, but you won't regret buying it. An excellent edition for any shooting library.

[Clay Eshom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice compilation of the history of the handgun, it begins with how and where they were developed in our Nation intermingled with historical significance. It then takes us through how to shoot, teach others to shoot, and development of modern firearms and the high pressure loads for them. Elmer Keith is considered one of the main sources of information when researching hand gunning and remains so to this day.

[Arrianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sixguns is a reference book/memoir for the gun handler and samurai of the old west, Elmer Keith. Must read for all target shooters, hunters or any serious student of American history.
Complete with illustrations of photographs of the guns being discussed