Shotguns have a long, rich history in the United States. They were used by both Union and Confederate cavalrymen during the Civil War, and helped defend the Alamo during the Mexican-American War. Soldiers during WWI preferred shotguns for trench warfare, and many heroes of the Wild West were rarely seen without their double-barrels. Today, shotguns are used by target sports enthusiasts, law enforcement, and armed forces. Discover the fascinating history of the shotgun in this wide-ranging new book. Shotguns explores the exciting history and development of the shotgun with engaging text and more than 200 full-color photographs of guns, including iconic models by Winchester. Best used for hitting smaller targets at closer range, shotguns became the weapon of choice for soldiers, hunters, and sportsmen. Learn about key innovations, including double-barrels, interchangeable chokes, and subguage inserts. Learn about different shotgun mechanisms, including breech-loading, double-barrel, pump-action, bolt-action, semi-automatic, and fully automatic weapons.
Prior to taking on oversight of the National Firearms Museum and NRA Gun Collector Programs, Jim Supica was an antique gun dealer, peddling old iron through his mail order catalog, website and auction business. He holds Juris Doctorate and Bachelor degrees from the University of Kansas. In 2020 he retired as Director of the NRA Museums Division after a dozen years.
Jim is author or co-author of six books on firearms. He's written numerous articles on gun collecting, including regular columns for American Rifleman and Shotgun News; is a contributing editor for the major firearms price guides; and appears on television, radio and webcasts.
Supica served eight years on the NRA Board of Directors, including stints as chairman of the Publications Policy Committee and Vice Chairman of the Gun Collectors Committee. He is a past president of the Smith & Wesson Collectors Association and Missouri Valley Arms Collectors Association, a former board member of the Colt Collectors Association, and a member of American Society of Arms Collectors and other collecting and shooting clubs. Jim collects 19th century big frame S&W revolvers and serial number one guns.