The Most Beautiful Gun Ever Made, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the gun you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:18

Appreciating craftsmanship extends to numerous fields, including the design and aesthetic of firearms. Different individuals admire different aspects, whether it's the sleekness, historical significance, or intricate details. A compilation of the most striking guns, rated by those who appreciate their beauty and historical relevance, provides a unique perspective on what makes a firearm visually appealing. This dynamic system allows for ongoing interaction, as everyone can contribute their opinion and vote on which gun stands out the most in terms of beauty. This process not only fuels a community-driven ranking but also enables participants to engage with a piece of history and artistry in a tangible way. Each vote reshapes the existing rankings, reflecting new insights and preferences.

What Is the Most Beautiful Gun Ever Made?

1

60
votes
Mike Cumpston · Public domain

Colt Single Action Army

Samuel Colt

Colt Single Action Army is also known as the "Peacemaker," this revolver is a classic icon of the American West with its sleek lines and elegant design.
The Colt Single Action Army, also known as the Colt Peacemaker or simply the Single Action Army (SAA), is a legendary six-shot single-action revolver. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful guns ever made due to its elegant design, craftsmanship, and historical significance.

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action: Single-action

Capacity: 6 rounds

Barrel Length: 4.75 inches

Overall Length: 11 inches
Colt Single Action Army in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful revolver
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular revolver in America
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular gun in the world
2

40
votes
Hmaag · CC BY-SA 3.0

Winchester Model 1873

Winchester Model 1873 - known as "The Gun That Won the West," this lever-action rifle is both functional and aesthetically pleasing with its graceful curves and rich walnut stock.
The Winchester Model 1873, also known as the 'Gun that Won the West,' is an iconic lever-action repeating rifle that was produced from 1873 to 1919. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful guns ever made.

Caliber: .44-40 Winchester, .38-40 Winchester, .32-20 Winchester, .38 Long Colt, .44 Henry Rimfire, .22 Rimfire

Action: Lever-action

Capacity: 14-round tubular magazine

Barrel Length: 24 inches (standard)

Weight: 8.25 pounds (standard)
3

15
votes
Hmaag · CC BY-SA 3.0

Browning Auto-5

John Browning

Browning Auto-5 is designed by John Browning, this semi-automatic shotgun features a distinctive humpback receiver and sleek lines that make it a beauty to behold.
The Browning Auto-5 is a classic and highly regarded semi-automatic shotgun known for its elegant design and reliable performance. It has been considered one of the most beautiful guns ever made due to its sleek lines and exquisite craftsmanship. The gun has a distinctive humpback-shaped receiver, which adds to its unique appearance and balanced weight distribution. The Auto-5 features a long recoil operation system, providing smooth cycling and reduced recoil felt by the shooter. Its high-quality walnut stock is finely checkered and adds to the overall aesthetics of the gun. The Browning Auto-5 has gained a reputation for its exceptional durability and versatility, making it a popular choice for hunters and target shooters alike.

Gauge: 12, 16, 20, 28, and .410 bore

Barrel Length: 26-32 inches

Chamber Length: 2 3/4 or 3 inches

Overall Length: 46.5-51.5 inches

Weight: 6.5-8.5 pounds
4

23
votes
Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon

Beretta

Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon is a popular choice for sporting clays and bird hunting, this over-under shotgun has a timeless elegance with its finely crafted wood and engraved receiver.
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon is a stunning over-and-under shotgun that is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful guns ever made. Its sleek and elegant design combined with exceptional craftsmanship make it a true work of art.

Gauge: 12, 20, 28

Barrel Length: 26" - 30"

Action: Over-and-under

Chamber: 2 3/4" and 3"

Chokes: Optima-Choke HP
5

19
votes
Smith & Wesson Model 29

Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson Model 29 is made famous by Clint Eastwood in the Dirty Harry movies, this revolver is a powerful and visually striking piece with its large frame and polished finish.
The Smith & Wesson Model 29 is a stunning revolver known for its beauty and iconic status in popular culture. It was first introduced in 1955 by Smith & Wesson, an American firearm manufacturer. The Model 29 gained immense popularity after being prominently featured in the 'Dirty Harry' film series.

Caliber: .44 Magnum

Barrel Length: 6.5 inches

Capacity: 6 rounds

Action: Double-action/Single-action

Weight: 47 ounces
Smith & Wesson Model 29 in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful revolver
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular .44 Magnum revolver
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular revolver in America
6

10
votes
Askild Antonsen · CC BY 2.0

Mauser C96

Mauser C96 is also known as the "Broomhandle," this semi-automatic pistol has a unique shape and distinctive design that makes it a standout in any collection.
The Mauser C96, also known as the 'Broomhandle', is a semi-automatic pistol that is renowned for its distinctive design and historical significance. With its sleek lines and charismatic appearance, it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful guns ever made.

Caliber: 7.63×25mm Mauser

Action: Short recoil, semi-automatic

Magazine Capacity: 10 or 20 rounds

Barrel Length: 5.5-7.9 inches (140-200 mm)

Overall Length: 11.4-13.8 inches (290-350 mm)
7

12
votes
Colt Python

Colt Python is considered by many to be the finest revolver ever made, the Python features a sleek design and outstanding accuracy that make it a true work of art.
The Colt Python is a sleek and powerful revolver known for its elegant design and exceptional craftsmanship. It is often regarded as one of the most beautiful guns ever made.

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action: Double-action

Barrel Length: 2.5 to 8 inches

Capacity: 6 rounds

Frame Material: Carbon steel
Colt Python in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular revolver in America
8

4
votes
US Air Force from USA · Public domain

Remington Model 870

Remington Arms Company

Remington Model 870 is a classic pump-action shotgun that has been in production for over 70 years, the Model 870 is both rugged and elegant with its smooth lines and polished finish.
The Remington Model 870 is a highly regarded pump-action shotgun known for its classic design and reliability. It has become one of the most popular and widely used shotguns in history.

Manufacturer: Remington Arms Company

Model: 870

Action type: Pump-action

Gauge: 12, 16, 20, 28, or .410 bore

Barrel length: Varies (18 to 30 inches)
9

10
votes
Askild Antonsen · CC BY 2.0

Luger P08

Luger P08 is a German pistol with a distinctive toggle-lock mechanism and sleek lines that make it a standout in any gun collection.
The Luger P08 is a semi-automatic pistol known for its elegant design and historical significance. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful guns ever made. The P08 features a distinctive toggle-lock action, sleek lines, and a sleek profile, making it visually stunning.

Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum

Action: Toggle-lock, recoil-operated

Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds

Barrel Length: 4 inches (Luger P08)

Overall Length: 8.8 inches (Luger P08)
10

15
votes
Tomascastelazo · CC BY-SA 4.0

Walther PPK

Walther PPK is made famous by James Bond, this compact pistol has a classic elegance and refined design that make it a standout in any collection.
The Walther PPK is a compact semi-automatic pistol known for its elegant design and reliable performance. It represents a blend of beauty, craftsmanship, and functionality.

Caliber: Most commonly chambered in .380 ACP (9mm Short), but also available in .32 ACP (7.65mm Browning)

Weight: 22.4 ounces (empty)

Overall Length: 6.1 inches

Barrel Length: 3.3 inches

Capacity: 6+1 rounds (.380 ACP) or 7+1 rounds (.32 ACP)

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Ranking factors for beautiful gun

Aesthetics

The visual appeal of the gun, including its design, finish, engraving, and other decorative elements. This may involve the overall shape of the gun, the coloration, any patterns or inlays, and any artistic or sculptural elements incorporated into the design.
Craftsmanship

The quality of the gun's construction and the attention to detail in its manufacturing. This includes the fit and finish of the gun, the precision in its moving parts, and the intricacy of any engraving or decoration. High-quality materials and exceptional workmanship will result in a more beautifully-crafted gun.
Functionality

The performance of the gun, including its accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. A beautifully-designed gun must also be functional and efficient in its purpose as a firearm. A well-designed gun that is easy to operate and maintain and is reasonably accurate will be more highly regarded than one that looks good but is poorly-functioning.
Historical and Cultural Significance

The gun's place in history and its impact on the development of firearms technology and culture. Some firearms may be considered beautiful due to their role in shaping history, their association with notable individuals or time periods, or their uniqueness among other guns of the time.
Rarity

The scarcity of the gun may be a factor in its perceived beauty, as it can make the gun more exclusive and desirable. Limited edition guns or models with a low production number can increase their value and appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.
Innovation

The incorporation of groundbreaking or unique design elements can contribute to the beauty of a gun. Innovative features or technologies that set a gun apart from others on the market can increase its aesthetic and functional appeal.
Personal Preference

Ultimately, the beauty of a gun is subjective and will be influenced by an individual's personal taste and preferences. Some may find beauty in the simplicity of a gun's design, while others may appreciate intricate detailing and decoration.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful gun ever made. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or gun is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

5489 views
202 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each gun once every 24 hours. The rank of each gun is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful gun ever made

The craftsmanship and design of firearms have always been admired by gun enthusiasts and collectors alike. From antique firearms to modern-day designs, there is a certain allure to the beauty of a well-crafted gun. Throughout history, many iconic firearms have been produced, each with its own unique design and style. The debate over what is the most beautiful gun ever made is one that has been ongoing for years. Some may argue that it is the classic design of the Colt Peacemaker, while others may argue for the sleek and modern look of the FN SCAR. With so many different designs and styles to choose from, it's no wonder that this topic has sparked such a passionate discussion among gun enthusiasts.