The Fastest Gunslingers of the 1800s: Myths and Reality
The legendary era of the Old West is often romanticized, but the truth about gunslingers, particularly those who were the fastest and deadliest, is more complex than the myths might suggest. This article explores the real figures behind the tales of speed and skill, such as John Wesley Hardin and Wild Bill Hickok, while also considering alternative perspectives and verifiable evidence.
John Wesley Hardin: The Sadistic Murderer?
One of the fastest and most well-known gunslingers in the 1800s was John Wesley Hardin. Born in 1853 and killed in 1895, Hardin is often cited as the fastest and one of the deadliest. According to legend, he allegedly killed up to 40 people, a figure that has been disputed by historians. However, Hardin's notoriety extends beyond his supposed tally of victims. He was known for his sadistic behavior, including an incident where he shot a man for snoring loudly.
Despite the numerous tales about Hardin's speed and accuracy, it's important to approach these claims with caution. The reality is often more nuanced. Bob Munden, a renowned gunslinger and expert on the subject, posited that there were no fast-draw artists in the Old West. He explained that the guns weren't designed for such rapid action, and the holsters kept the guns in place, making quick draws less feasible.
The Myth of Wild Bill Hickok: Accuracy Over Speed
Wild Bill Hickok is often considered a contender for the title of the fastest gunslinger. However, Munden claimed that Hickok wasn't known for his speed, but for his accuracy. This accuracy was a result of his unique method of carrying his Remington revolvers: he wrapped them in a red sash tied around his waist, allowing for a more stable and accurate draw.
One of the most famous depictions of Hickok's skill involves a purported incident in Deadwood, South Dakota, where he apparently had his guns halfway out of the holsters when he was shot in the back of the head. However, Munden, a master gunslinger himself, discounted this as a Hollywood myth, emphasizing the difference between speed and accuracy.
Fact vs. Fiction: Speed and Deadliness
The line between speed and deadliness is often blurred in the lore of the Old West. While speed is a crucial element, accuracy remains the ultimate measure of a gunslinger's skill. One example is Billy the Kid. Despite his notorious reputation, he was allegedly out-pulled by a few other gunslingers but won through nerve and accuracy.
Another gunslinger, Bob Munden, demonstrated the possibility of achieving both speed and deadliness. In his youth, he could draw, shoot, and re-holster in an incredible .0175 seconds. Additionally, Munden's demonstrations with modern videography provide a more scientific and verifiable account of a gunslinger's abilities.
Conclusion
The legend of the fastest and deadliest gunslingers of the 1800s is rich with tales of speed, skill, and violence. While figures like John Wesley Hardin and Wild Bill Hickok garner significant attention, a closer look at the historical record and expert opinions suggests that these myths sometimes overshadow the reality. Speed and accuracy are both important aspects of the gunslinger's job, but accuracy can often make the difference between survival and downfall in the brutal arena of the Old West.
Whether John Wesley Hardin or Wild Bill Hickok was the fastest gunslinger, the stories of their prowess in Old West myths are not without historical context, and the true accounts of these legendary figures highlight the complexity of their legacy.