The National Firearms Museum in suburban Fairfax, Virginia tells the history of firearms, from the earliest Match and Wheel Lock muskets, first introduced to the New World in the 17th century by the Spanish, to modern day hunting, target, military and collector’s weapons.

And America’s history is steeped in gun and firearms history.  The firearm played important roles throughout history, starting with the initial settlement of the New World.  Events such as the American Revolution, major wars and minor battles, the rise of organized crime in the 1920s, and law enforcement’s response would have never occurred.

The museum has one of the most extensive collection of hand guns, shotguns and rifles, military weapons and speciality firearms covering every use from law enforcement to hunting, military to shooting competitions.  The collection also includes one-of-a-kind ands limited issue commemorative firearms.  There’s also a section of personal firearms from well-known military men.

Just a few of the over 2,200 classic firearms on display at the museum include:

• Thompson submachine gun
• Colt 45 automatic
• German Luger pistol
• M-1 Garand & M1903 Springfield rifles
• Colt’s Single Action Army revolver
• Sharps carbine
• Model 1803 Flintlock rifle
• Personal handgun collection of famous military men, from Gen. Eisenhower to Chuck Yeagar.

And don’t miss Detective Harry Callahan’s (aka Dirty Harry) Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum and police badge and ID form the movie series that’s on display.

There’s even a collection of bb guns, including the classic favorite of boys everywhere, the Daisy Red Ryder bb gun.

The museum’s collections are split into 13 rooms, which cover a specific period of history, theme,  or type of firearm.

The current exhibit is Guns of the Old West, which includes examples from Native Indians and Indian fighters, Buffalo Soldiers, gun fighters, hunters. 

Additionally, an extensive collection of John Wayne movie memorabilia is also on display (see photo below).

National Firearms Museum
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, Virginia 22030

Hours – Daily, 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m., except major holidays.

Admission – FREE

Nearest Metro Station – Vienna / Fairfax / GMU – Orange Line, then a 5 mile cab ride or take a bus.

Parking – Free parking is available.

Images – from personal collection – ©2008, Jon Rochetti

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Post from: The DC Traveler