Gun Stories Presented by MidwayUSA Season 2 Episode 1 Model 29

Gun Stories Presented by MidwayUSA is a documentary-style show that explores the history and significance of various firearms throughout history. Season 2, Episode 1 is titled "Model 29" and is dedicated to the iconic .44 Magnum revolver made famous by Clint Eastwood in the classic 1971 film, Dirty Harry.

The episode kicks off with a dramatic recreation of the opening scene of Dirty Harry, featuring actor Rodney A. Grant as the infamous Scorpio killer and a voiceover by host Joe Mantegna. The scene sets the stage for the episode, which will delve into the Model 29's development, design, and cultural impact.

We're first introduced to Elmer Keith, a legendary outdoorsman and firearms expert who is credited with co-inventing the .44 Magnum cartridge. Keith was convinced that a revolver chambered for his new cartridge could take down any game in North America, and he set out to design the ultimate hand cannon.

The episode then moves into a fascinating history of Smith & Wesson, the legendary gunmaker who would produce the Model 29. We learn about the company's early days, its partnerships with other gunmakers, and its groundbreaking innovations in revolver design.

The Model 29 was a revolutionary gun when it debuted in 1955. Its powerful .44 Magnum cartridge was one of the most potent handgun rounds ever made, and its reinforced-frame design could withstand the intense recoil generated by the cartridge. The Model 29 would quickly become a favorite of outdoorsmen, law enforcement officers, and Hollywood filmmakers alike.

Throughout the episode, we're treated to stunning visuals of the Model 29 in action. We see it being fired at outdoor ranges, at steel targets, and even at melons (which explode spectacularly upon impact). The effectiveness and stopping power of the gun are brought to life in vivid detail.

As the episode progresses, we learn more about the cultural impact of the Model 29. Its appearance in Dirty Harry elevated the gun to mythical status, and it became one of the most recognizable firearms in movie history. We hear from filmmakers who have used the Model 29 in their own movies, as well as from collectors who cherish the gun for its iconic status.

The episode also touches on controversies surrounding the Model 29. Its reputation as a powerhouse handgun led some to call for its ban or regulation, and its association with violent movies led to concerns about its influence on society. We hear from experts on both sides of the issue, and get a sense of how the Model 29 came to embody so many conflicting ideas about gun ownership, self-defense, and popular culture.

In the end, Gun Stories Presented by MidwayUSA Season 2 Episode 1 offers a comprehensive look at the Model 29, from its humble beginnings as a new cartridge idea to its status as an enduring icon of American firearms culture. Whether you're a gun enthusiast, a history buff, or a movie fan, there's something for everyone in this fascinating episode.