Ep 16. Packing Heat

In season 3 episode 16 of the hit reality TV series Pawn Stars, titled "Packing Heat," viewers are taken on a journey through the exciting world of firearms and weaponry. As always, the episode features the daily operations of the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nevada, run by the charismatic Harrison family: Rick, Corey, and Richard "Old Man" Harrison.

The episode starts off with the arrival of a customer looking to sell an antique pepperbox pistol, a type of handgun with multiple barrels that rotate around a central axis. The expert team at the pawn shop, led by Rick and Corey, examine the pistol and determine that it is from the late 1800s and was manufactured by a prominent American gunmaker. However, they point out that the pistol is missing one of its barrels, which lowers its value significantly. The customer is disappointed to learn this but ultimately agrees to sell the firearm for a lower price than he had hoped for.

Next, the Harrison family receives a visit from a gentleman who claims to have a rare gun originally owned by notorious gangster Al Capone. The gun in question is a Colt Detective Special revolver that is said to have been used by Capone as a personal weapon during his time as a mob boss in Chicago. The Harrisons are skeptical at first, as many people try to sell them items with exaggerated or false claims of their historical significance. However, after examining the revolver and conducting some research, they find evidence that supports the gun's connection to Capone. Excited by the prospect of such a unique piece of history, the Harrisons negotiate with the seller and ultimately agree to purchase the pistol for a substantial sum of money.

Later in the episode, a seller brings in a pair of dueling pistols that are believed to have belonged to a wealthy American merchant from the 19th century. Dueling pistols were commonly used in the past as a way to resolve disputes or settle grievances between gentlemen, and were typically highly decorative and ornate. The Harrisons are impressed by the craftsmanship of the pistols, which feature intricate engravings and gold inlays, but they also note that the mechanisms of the guns are not in working order. After some discussion, they make an offer to the seller that takes into account both the historical significance and the current condition of the pistols.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit from a man looking to sell a unique item that he claims is a prototype for a futuristic weapon. The item in question is a handheld energy beam emitter that the seller says was developed by a secret government agency. The Harrisons are intrigued by the sci-fi-like appearance of the device and decide to bring in an expert in military technology to examine it. After a thorough evaluation, the experts determined that the device could not produce the energy output claimed by the seller and was not a true weapon prototype. While disappointed, the Harrisons are glad to have avoided potentially purchasing a fraudulent item.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to the fascinating world of firearms and weaponry, and the intricacies of assessing their value and authenticity. The Pawn Stars family showcases their keen eye for detail and their ability to spot fakes, while also celebrating the unique history and stories behind each piece that comes into their shop. "Packing Heat" is a must-watch for anyone interested in the world of guns and weapons, and for fans of Pawn Stars who love the thrill of buying and selling rare and fascinating items.