Gun Stories Presented by MidwayUSA Season 7 Episode 16 The Kentucky Rifle

Gun Stories is a television series that showcases some of the most iconic firearms of American history, their evolution, and the impact they had in shaping the country. This particular episode, The Kentucky Rifle, is the sixteenth of the seventh season, and it delves into one of the most beloved rifles of all time: the Kentucky Rifle.

The show begins with host Joe Mantegna providing an overview of the weapon's history, explaining how it got its name, and why it became an iconic symbol of the American frontier. The Kentucky Rifle was first developed in the mid-1700s by German and Swiss immigrant craftsmen who settled in Pennsylvania. These artisans brought along their European expertise but adapted it to the American conditions, where they had plenty of forested areas and abundant game to hunt.

The Kentucky rifle they created was not only accurate, reliable and powerful, but it was also aesthetically pleasing. The weapon had a long smoothbore barrel, thin and elegant stock, and was decorated with intricate engravings and carvings. Each rifle was unique and a work of art by itself, but it was also a symbol of the craftsmanship and skill of those who made it.

The Kentucky Rifle gained increasing popularity throughout the 18th century and became one of the preferred weapons for hunters, frontiersmen, and even soldiers. During the American Revolution, many soldiers carried a Kentucky Rifle as a backup weapon, as it was light and easy to maneuver around, and could pack a lethal punch.

The episode then goes on to show various examples of original Kentucky Rifles and how they were crafted. The audience gets to see do-it-yourself demonstrations of the rifling process and barrel forging, as well as the carving and engraving of the stock. Mantegna also delves into the physics of the gun and how the rifling process provides it with improved accuracy.

Another section of the show explores the impact that the Kentucky Rifle had on American culture. Through interviews with historians, collectors, and enthusiasts, the audience learns about how the gun has become an icon of American independence and how its image has been romanticized in books, movies and even advertising.

Finally, the show concludes with a segment on the legacy of the Kentucky Rifle. Despite being developed over two centuries ago, the gun has left an imprint on American culture that is still felt today. Engravings and replicas of the Kentucky Rifle are still popular collector items, and the gun's design has influenced the development of modern firearms.

Overall, the episode provides a fascinating and in-depth look into the history and cultural significance of the Kentucky Rifle. The audience will come away with an appreciation of the innovations and craftsmanship that went into creating this legendary firearm, and how its legacy has continued to shape American culture.