2 comments about Colt Single Action: From Patersons to Peacemakers.

1. I must say I expected a good book following the purchase of Metallic Cartridge Conversions, what you get with Colt Single Action: From Patersons to Peacemakers is a superbly produced book covering this genre. Not only informative as you would expect but written so well, not over technical just sheer good interesting subject reading, add the brilliance of Dennis Adler's photography you have one of the best books on the market. If you are a devotee of R L Wilson's books as I am, he now has some very serious competition.



2. This book is chuck-full of information; the opening chapters, particularly those pages dealing with Patterson rifle conversions are unique in my experience! Mr. Leavett has some fascinating pieces.
   
   The illustrations are of the highest quality; I was happy to see the coverage given to the engraved versions of the "second-generation" black-powder revolvers, having owned a few myself.
   
   This is right in there with the best $19.99 you can spend on a gun book.

4 comments about Guns of the Old West: An Illustrated History.

1. This was a gift to my husband. He loves it.



2. This is a really good book.

   It has a lot of information about old guns that you simply will not be able to find elsewhere.




3. A "mixed review" is about the best possible for this book,
   because there is such disparity between the good and negative
   elements. The photos are fabulous, which much detail and
   well-informed captions, and that part is clearly the best
   part of this book. Most photos were taken of gun collections
   in famous museums, mainly the Gene Autry museum in L.A., and
   the Buffalo Bill Museum in Cody, WY, so the guns themselves
   are rare and usually documented in a way that clearly sets them

   apart from what most of us will ever see. Anyone who has ever
   tried to photograph a gun will have their breathe taken away
   by the clarity and beauty of these photos, and they have to
   be seen to be believed. Any student of the Old West, or of
   firearms, will want to study these photos and relish the
   details.
   Unhappily, the text doesn't seem to have as much detail or
   accuracy. Many old legends are repeated, seemingly without
   verification, and some of them are rather discredited now.
   So the stories have to be read with an open mind, knowing
   that further reading would be required before forming an opinion
   of some of the historic figures of the Old West.
   So there is an odd mix in going through this book, but the
   photos alone make this an interesting and worthwhile project.




4. Guns Of The Old West: An Illustrated History by firearms expert and historian Dean K. Boorman (President of the Armor and Arms Club of new York) is detailed guide to the revolvers and firearms of America during the course of its frontier years. Black-and-white as well as color photographs present examples of numerous guns and gun-related memorabilia, thereby enhancing a thorough history describing the evolution of guns and the relentless advance of a technology that changed how wars and individuals on the American frontier fought for their lives. Guns Of The Old West is a fascinating, informative volume which is especially recommended for antique gun collectors and western history buffs.

5 comments about The Gun Digest Book of the Glock: A Comprehensive Review : Design, History, Use (Gun Digest Book of the Glock).

1. I couldn't top the the 3 previous reviews, they were accurate. I have the revised 2003 book which retails for $27.99 and I bought it at a local gun shop for $25.20. I wish I had checked Amazon's prices first.



2. I have read all the books available for the Glock line of pistols and this one is easily the best. The author covers history, maintenance, all the models, and the pictures are excellent.
   
   If you are going to buy just one book about Glocks I highly recommend this be the one, it IS that good.
   
   But beware; if you are not presently a Glock owner you may find, after spending time with this book, that you just have to have one.



3. Pat Sweeney writes the best overall book for the firearms industry. His attention to detail and articulation is some of the best work when it comes to general firearms knowledge. The only other book that covers the Glock this well is the Ptooma Guide to the Glock. This book in comparison to the Ptooma book, well that is kind of hard. Sweeney writes as a general knowledge book, while the Ptooma book was written by guys that LOVE Glocks. Sweeney is a 1911 and revolver man, But who wouldn't trust the word of someone that took 3rd place in World Shoot XIV in Standard Revolver? I think he knows what he is talking about. You need a Glock book? Look no further. You found it.



4. My review on this one is going to be a bit more critical than most. This is probably one of the worst books on Glock pistols that I have read to date. The author is constantly comparing Glocks to 1911's, and other types of pistols. The book is also loaded with plenty of non-Glock images. Mr. Sweeney, I bought this book because I like the Glock, not because I wanted to see plenty of photos of 1911's... ad nauseam. Perhaps Mr. Sweeney should stick to books writing books like his "Gun Digest Book of the 1911", as he has done Glock more than a bit of injustice.
   
   
   You know, I recently purchased Massad Ayoob's excellent book "The Gun Digest Book of Sig-Sauer". Mr. Sweeney, please take note... Massad's book on the Sig is FILLED with useful information and photos related to his book's title... SIG-SAUER PISTOLS!
   
   Sorry, but I must recommend a pass on Sweeney's "sort of Glock" book!
   
   Hans



5. I made the mistake of actually reading the book, rather than skim it or use if for reference. Mr Sweeney is an accomplished gunsmith with years of experience with the 1911 and the Glock. Although he provides a lot of good information on the Glock, it becomes obvious that he truly admires the 1911. Having another, commonly used firearm to use as a reference for comparison is a good thing. But there are many times that the 1911 comes up without benefit to the topic.
   
   The Glock information he provides is great, albeit limited in scope; I learned a lot about magazines, other Glock models, and a holster I'd never heard of; I'm glad I have the book on my shelf for reference. Probably the most practical thing I learned is that all Glock mags of the same caliber will fit and function in other Glocks of the same caliber; consequently it makes good sense to carry a 15 round clip (from a Glock 22) to put in your concealed Glock 27 after the first 10 rounds are gone. Makes more sense than investing in a bunch of mag extensions that yield fewer total rounds.
   
   But the book has some major drawbacks, too. At one point we are led to believe that he will cover trigger pull adjustment in another section, but this is never addressed. The writing is OK, but the editor should find a new line of work. There are contradictions, circular writing, and other mistakes that a good editor would have picked out; it was difficult to read at times. Probably the worst two issues are that it desperately needs to be updated (lots of talk about the old 1994 gun restrictions, copyright 1993) and there is no index. Tough to be a reference book without one.
   
   I haven't read any competing books on the subject, but I can compare it with quality books written on singular subjects. That's how I formulated my rating.

5 comments about Peacemakers: Arms And Adventure In The American West.

1. This book was one of the best purchases I have ever made! Already it has given me hours of entertainment, new knowledge of the west, and new insights in areas I had not before looked into.
   
   The photography, and the items pictured, are worth the price of the book alone.
   
   Overall an excellent book!!! And worth every penny!
   
   FDL



2. The book is full of color pictures of the guns used in the west and has exhibits from many of the western museums. It is not just a study of the Colt Single Action Army but covers rifles and shotguns. It displays the guns that are documented as being used by the lawmen and gunfighters of the time.



3. Another great book from R.L. Wilson. Every bit as entertaining and informative as the others he's wrote. Fun to read about the old west and the guns used to tame it.



4. My gun loving son, cried when his teacher would not let him bring this book to school to show his friends. It's absolutely gorgeous with an interesting text and glorious photos. We love the section showing the actors and their screen guns.



5. This book is one of the most beatiful I have seen. If you like cowboy guns, buy this book. The extraordinary amount of information provided on the text is surpassed only by the quality and variety of the pictures. The book is divided in chapters coverring all aspects of the life during the period, and gives special details on guns of famous men. It is a great source for all cowboy shooters and gun collectors.

3 comments about Model 1911 Automatic Pistol.

1. I recomend this book for anyone that owns or is thinking of owning a 1911. It is very up to date. Colour photos are first rate.



2. I recieved this book from Amazon and after a couple of days sent it back. The material covered in the book is very basic and you may be upset you bothered ordering this book if you are looking for anything like a reference as opposed to a very light overview. The chapters are usually 2 pages long, sometimes 3 pages long and rarely 4 pages long. As you can imagine, a couple of pages of information on any given topic is very limiting. This is partially offset by the fact that there are a lot of chapters. I got the impression the author was enamored with the idea of two page chapters and, consequently, added fluff or removed germane information just to fit this artifical requirement. I really hate giving a bad review in general but I feel this book deserves it, especially if you already know a little about the model 1911 (that a couple of days surfing the internet would give you). I can however recommend Patrick Sweeny's books (The Gun Digest Book of the 1911 for example) on the model 1911 which have the opposite problem this book does: Sweeny's books come with a lot of information covering a breadth and depth that this book doesn't even approach. The only thing you may not like about Sweeny's books is that, arguably, they contain too much information.



3. If you are just getting into the 1911 this is a great book to start with, Campbell is a good writer and doesn't need many words to tell you a lot. The best part is the pages of reviews of different 45's .... very interesting - he tested several dozen different ones and it really helps you decide what is good and what is not. If you are looking for a 1911 this is a must buy.

3 comments about Pattern-Welded Blade: Artistry In Iron.

1. the book gives concise information on all aspects of the pattern welded blade. A great how to on billet building, forging the pattern, and completing to finished blade.



2. If you've read the author's previous books you will find some repetition (e.g., workshop, materials, weights, measures, compounds) yet this book really delves in-depth into the art of pattern-welding like no other I've read. It's his shortest book too, for that matter, but it really delivers on topic. You will learn everything you need to know to begin making stunning, functional Damascus creations. Well written, well illustrated, and very well done!
   
   Lawrence Kane
   Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction



3. This book is not intended for a novice at forge work. But if you have already hammered hot steel, and want to try something more challenging this book gives you all the information you will ever need about making forge welded blades. This book is an absolute must have for anyone who wants to start making pattered blades. The third of Dr. Hrisoulas' books, buy the other two as well (although if you're experienced enough to want this book, you've probably already got the others) and you won't need to ever buy another book on blade forging again. Buy this book. Buy it right now.

5 comments about The Gun Digest Book of Smith & Wesson.

1. The book is built around several "tests" of different S&W handguns, and it also gives some historical- and tech info.



2. This book provides an excellent survey of handguns currently offered by Smith and Wesson. The writer has extensive pratical experience and has been assisted with test firing by a group of friends. Very readable and lots of good photos. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone thinking of purchasing a new or near new S&W.



3. Not quite what I was expecting in this book,but is very informative on later model handguns from this great gunmaker.
   Will have to look further for a book with models and serial numbers.



4. Patrick Sweeney has taken on the task of giving an extensive review of the available handguns of Smith & Wesson. He goes into considerable depth on the practical use of the various models and what can be expected on the range, in competion and for the very serious job of Concealed Weapons Carry. Chapters on History, Ammunition, Buying Used, and Competion round this fine effort out.



5. I am a novice S&W collector and was hoping for more of a reference work covering specific models and variations of Smith & Wesson handguns. This book is biased towards current models, both revolvers and semi-autos. The material that is covered is well written, interesting, and timely. Sections are devoted to a sampling of current models, company history, accessories, proper disassembly and maintenance, etc. However, if you are a collector looking for wider coverage of specific models this book may dissappoint. The book is better suited to people who are interested in what S&W is currently offering or how to care for their S&W guns.

No comments about The Gun Digest Book Of The Glock (Gun Digest Book of the Glock).

5 comments about Age of the Gunfighter: Men and Weapons on the Frontier 1840-1900.

1. If you are as into the guns as you are the stories, this is particularly good book. Every few pages is a full color spread of authentic Old west shotguns, lever actions, pistol, and single shots. They are pictures of the actual guns used by famous outlaws, law men, and others from various western history museums - very cool! The text is good but not great. it is wirtten more from a historical perspective than a story telling one. Still a book you should own if you like anything about the old West.



2. Joseph Rosa presents us with a stunning visual collection of photographs, mainly featuring fine specimens of mid to late 19th century firearms, and vintage photos of emminent gun-fighters of the era. There are several interesting nostalgic paintings displayed as well, by artists such as N.C. Wyeth. Although the illustrations are the most striking feature of this book by far, there is plenty of interesting text as well. The chapters within cover these topics: The Violent West, Feuds and Range Wars, Cowboys and Cowtown Chaos, Law and Order: From Gun to Gavel. In general, this book is an enthralling visual catalog of the firearms, both famous and obscure, that were utilized in the American West during the years 1840 to 1900. Within you will see collections of rifles, pistols, shotguns, and miscellenous historical relics, all arranged in vivid color layouts.



3. I received "Age of the Gunfighter" last night and have only been able to glance through it's pages a few times.
   
   On the positive side, my initial impression is that the book is a gorgeous encyclopedia of photographs of famous people, towns and firearms.
   
   On the negative side, my cursory glances through the book have shown some significant historical errors. The only sub-section of the book I have any real knowledge about is the Lincoln County War and Billy the Kid. The book contains some glaring errors in this section.
   
   In a photo, the author mixes up the identities of John Poe and James Brent and states that Brent accompanied Poe and Pat Garrett to Fort Sumner when in fact, it was Tip McKinney who accompanied them, not James Brent.
   
   The author correctly identifies a photo of Bob Beckwith but states that he was a follower of Billy the Kid who died when he and McSween tried to escape McSween's burning house. The fact is that Beckwith was a member of the Murphy-Dolan faction and fighting on the opposite side of Billy and McSween that night. Billy and several "Regulators" had already escaped when Beckwith called for McSween's surrender. Something went wrong and after the smoke cleared from the resulting shootout, both McSween and Beckwith were dead.
   
   Finally, the author states that Pat Garrett killed Billy the Kid with a Colt Single-Action .45 when Garrett actually used a Colt Single-Action .44.
   
   I haven't had a chance to read much of the author's narrative so possibly these errors are due to someone else editing the descriptions of the photographs.
   
   For the photos alone, this book is a definite must-have for the Frontier enthusiast and based on this alone should rate the book five stars. However, the questionable historical accuracy of some of it's narrative requires me to downgrade my rating to four stars.



4. This is the best book I've ever found that extensively shows what the Old West of the Gunfighter was really like.Rosa has done a supurb job of defining all aspects of this intriguing period,roughly from 1840 till the end of the century.
   Rosa covers all the Gunfighters whose names and faces who have become legends. He also shows us many of the less known and less written about. He has included some of the best pictures of these people you can find ,and all in one volume. Here we are shown how they dressed,and the guns,rifles and tools and equipment they used. We also get wonderful photographs of the towns they inhabited,both inside views and street scenes.There are concise and factual write-ups on many of the characters and their claims to fame.
   Rosa has been consistant in providing the dates of most of the photographs.I am not sure when the photography technology was first developed that allowed such a great record;but it was around the time of the early years of this period.Just imagine,what a true representation of these days would have been impossible without this invention.
   If you read many westerns or much history of this era ,you will be forever running into the types of weapons used.You are often left with wondering what they looked like. Well,wonder no more;just pull out this book and you will see excellent photographs and descriptions of these firearms,cartridges,cleaning tools,pistol and rifle cases,watches,holsters,belts,playing cards documents,swords, knives,badges,hats,saddle bags and countless other artifacts of the time.The author also shows the musemms where these artifacts are retained.
   Also scattered through the book are beautiful examples of artwork done by famous painters of the period.Several maps are included that make stories and history of the Old West very easy to follow.Anyone who has tried to locate events of this period by using present day highway atlass will appreciate them.
   You will also be amazed with the detail that Rosa has collected,obviously verified and included in the book.Not only that,he does it in a manner that doesn't get the reader bogged down in detail. What I really mean to say is that the information is there in great detail;but the reader is able to skip over or delve into;the choice is his.
   Another aspect of this book that is also noteworthy is its high quality of construction,binding,paper stock,printing and color rendition makes this a reference book that will stand up to years of use.
   This book was first published ic 1993 and again in 2000 and as you can see,it still commands a good price.That certainly proves how good and popular this book is, and would be a very often referred to and treasured book for anyone interested in the Gunfighters and any other History of the Old West.I can tell you it is certainly a favorite of mine.
   
   
   



5. ...between the vast number of personalities discussed, and the quality & quantity of the photos included; this is the ultimate reference on the good guys, and the bad guys of the Wild West... the gear they wore, the guns they used, the circumstances surrounding what each gunfight was really about, and the ultimate fate of each legend.

No comments about Civil War Firearms: Their Historical Background and Tactical Use.