A Mule Plow, a 9mm Rimfire, and a Lifetime of Memories Cousin Denny could talk to mules in a way that made them behave. Back in the Missouri fields of my youth, he spent long spring days behind a plow, guiding two stubborn mules until the soil turned dark and ready for planting. Strapped to the side of that plow in a worn scabbard rode his Winchester Model 36. Every so often a groundhog or rabbit would break cover and that little single shot cracked like lightning. The mules barely twitched. Winchester Model 36 When I was a boy, I earned ten cents a day working alongside Denny. My job was to scoop mule manure and pry rocks out of the fresh furrows. The smell of damp earth and mule sweat lingers in my memory even now. I would glance at that Winchester on the plow and dream about the day I might carry a gun of my own. That little 9mm rimfire, sometimes called a Flobert, seemed like pure magic. One late afternoon a mule kicked and nearly killed Denny. We were sure he would not make it. He healed slow, but the Winchester was still hanging in the barn when he came home, oiled and waiting for the next season. That gun was a quiet witness to both the danger and the stubborn beauty of working Missouri ground. An Odd Chapter in Winchester History The Winchester Model 36 is one of the most unusual shotguns to wear the Winchester name. Produced from 1920 through 1927, it was a single shot smoothbore chambered for the 9 mm rimfire shotshell, better known in Europe as the 9 mm Flobert. The name comes from Louis Nicolas Flobert, the French inventor who in 1845 created the first true metallic cartridge by marrying a percussion cap with a small bullet. His design set the stage for every modern cartridge that followed. 9mm Longshot and 9mm Flobert Cartridges The 9 mm Flobert round is closer to a garden gun cartridge than a traditional rifle or shotgun round. It carries a very light powder charge and is designed to throw a pinch of fine shot at short range. Think of it as a tiny shotgun shell meant for dispatching rats in a barn or keeping sparrows out of a fruit tree. In the early 1900s European gardeners relied on it, and Winchester recognized that American farmers had the same need. The Model 36 was their answer. Winchester kept the gun simple. It used a falling-block action with a straight-grained walnut stock and a short barrel that made it easy to handle from a horse or while working a plow. Its effective range was about the distance across a small garden, which was all anyone needed for small vermin. Even when it was new the 9 mm Flobert round was a specialty item. Ammunition makers offered both shot and round ball loads, but it never became a mainstream American cartridge. That scarcity is part of what makes the Model 36 such an intriguing piece for collectors today. A Familiar Old Friend in Webster Groves This job still surprises me after all this time. Not long ago we were asked to complete an insurance appraisal in Webster Groves. The collection included several fine shotguns and there among them sat a Winchester Model 36. The moment I saw it I was back in those fields, a kid with a ten cent wage and a shovel in my hands. The smell of dirt and the sound of those mules came rushing back as if no time had passed. Winchester Model 36 Reflections from and Old Man Now that I am getting up in years, buying and appraising firearms gives me a chance to touch the pieces of my own past. When I saw that Model 36 I could practically see Denny’s grin and the way he tipped his hat after surviving that mule’s kick. These guns are more than wood and steel. They carry the stories of the people who worked the land and faced the dangers of nature and mean ass Mules. Final Word from Uncle Kenny The Winchester Model 36 may be an oddity in the Winchester lineup, but it holds a special place in my heart. It represents a time when a firearm was both tool and companion, a quiet partner in a life built on soil, sweat, and family. Seeing one again in that Webster Groves appraisal reminded me that this work lets me reconnect with the guns of my youth and the memories they still carry.

Downsizing: Mossberg Shotguns and a Knight Black Powder Rifle Find a New Home When families in Saint Louis face major life transitions, firearms are often part of the conversation. That was the case for one Brentwood family this week. Their father was moving into assisted living, and while some items were earmarked for children and grandchildren, the firearms presented a different challenge. The daughter, not interested in keeping the guns, turned to Google. She searched for “best place to sell guns in Saint Louis”  and came across MDRF Enterprises, first in a Reddit thread and then in the search results. Within a day, she was at our shop with her father’s collection. The Firearms Brought In This particular collection included three Mossberg shotguns and one black powder rifle: Mossberg 835 Mossberg 9200 Mossberg 500 Knight .45 caliber black powder rifle Each firearm was carefully inspected and appraised using certified standards. The Process Our approach was simple: Fair Appraisal  — Each firearm was evaluated for condition, market value, and resale demand. Cash Offer  — The daughter received an on-the-spot cash offer, backed by documentation. Legal Transfer  — Every firearm was logged into our Acquisition & Disposition records, ensuring full ATF compliance. The family appreciated that the process was discreet, professional, and respectful. Most importantly, the daughter left knowing the firearms were handled legally and responsibly. Mossberg 835, 9200, 500, and a Knight .45 black powder rifle from a Brentwood downsizing. MDRF Enterprises provided a fair appraisal, cash offer, and ATF-compliant transfer in Saint Louis.

MDRF Enterprises is proud to announce a major update in our professional credentials. After more than a decade serving Saint Louis families and estate professionals with licensed firearm transfers and certified appraisals, we are now a licensed Special Occupational Taxpayer (SOT) with authority to handle National Firearms Act (NFA) firearms. MDRF SOT This new designation allows us to assist with regulated NFA items that often create confusion in estates and collections. These include suppressors, short barreled rifles, short barreled shotguns, and other firearms that require additional ATF oversight. For estate attorneys, fiduciaries, and families, this approval means that one trusted partner can now handle both standard sporting arms and NFA firearms within the same estate. What was once a complex gray area for executors or liquidators can now be addressed with clarity, documentation, and full compliance. Every service at MDRF Enterprises is designed to reduce uncertainty and risk. By adding licensed SOT capabilities for NFA firearms, we provide additional assurance that all firearms discovered in estates, trusts, or collections will be managed correctly and legally. MDRF Enterprises has built its reputation on discretion, professionalism, and compliance. The addition of SOT licensure for NFA firearms reflects our continued investment in the highest professional standards to protect clients and the community. If you are an attorney, fiduciary, or family member facing questions about suppressors, short barreled rifles, or other NFA firearms, we invite you to connect with us. MDRF Enterprises will bring the same careful approach that has guided our work in Saint Louis for more than twelve years, now with expanded coverage for every category of firearm.

Why It Matters When Selling or Appraising Firearms in Missouri When firearms appear in an estate, most people think of two questions right away: Are they safe? and What are they worth? The first is about safety and compliance. The second is about accuracy and fairness, and that is where a certified firearm appraisal becomes more than just a formality. At MDRF Enterprises, our appraisal process is built for courtrooms, probate filings, insurance claims, and professional due diligence. It is not a quick guess based on internet listings or an informal “off the cuff” valuation. Our appraisals meet professional standards and provide documentation that stands up to legal and financial scrutiny. For an overview of the laws that apply in these situations, see our Missouri firearm laws and compliance guide . Smith & Wesson Model 41 and Paperwork What Counts as Proper Firearm Documentation in Missouri In Missouri, there is no firearm registration system for most guns, but that does not mean documentation is optional. For estates, private sales, and transfers, the right paperwork protects you from delays, disputes, and legal issues. A complete firearm documentation set may include: Formal Appraisal Report  – Prepared by a certified appraiser, detailing make, model, caliber, serial number, condition (PPGS grading), and current market value. Bill of Sale  – Legally records the transfer between parties. ATF Transfer Records  – Required when transferring through a licensed dealer or for certain regulated firearms. Probate Court Inventory  – Lists assets for estate settlement, including firearms. Insurance Schedule  – Documents firearms covered by a policy, with values supported by an appraisal. Without these, you may face challenges with probate court, insurance claims, or proving ownership. Missouri-Specific Rules for Firearm Appraisals in Estates While Missouri law does not require a special permit to own most firearms, estates that include guns are still subject to probate requirements. This means: Firearms must be listed in the estate inventory for court approval. The executor must ensure all transfers follow Missouri gun transfer laws for estates . If the firearm is regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) , additional federal forms are required. A professional appraisal is not only helpful for settling disputes among heirs, it also satisfies court expectations for accurate valuation. If you’ve inherited a firearm and aren’t sure where to start, our Missouri inherited firearms guide explains the steps in plain language. Avoiding Common Documentation Mistakes Many estate professionals and heirs make simple errors that can delay or complicate a firearm sale or transfer: Not recording serial numbers for each gun. Failing to take clear photos from multiple angles. Skipping witness signatures on private sales. Ignoring chain-of-custody records when moving firearms between locations. Not keeping copies of all paperwork for at least five years. These mistakes can lead to questions of legal ownership, lower sale prices, or even seizure of the firearm if there is a dispute. AGI Certified Appraiser Logo How Documentation Speeds Up the Sale Process When you are ready to sell or transfer a firearm, having a full documentation package allows the process to move quickly. Licensed dealers like MDRF Enterprises can verify the details, complete required background checks, and finalize the sale without delays caused by missing information. For example, if you have an appraisal report with photos, serial numbers, and proof of ownership ready, the sale can often be completed the same day. Without these, you may wait days or weeks for verification. To see exactly what Missouri requires when an estate is involved, review our guide to Missouri estate firearm transfer requirements . Sample Documentation Package At MDRF Enterprises, we prepare documentation packages that include: Certified appraisal report with PPGS grading. ATF-compliant bill of sale. Photos of each firearm for reference. Chain-of-custody log (when applicable). Copies for the executor, heirs, and buyer. This is the level of detail that protects your sale and ensures compliance with Missouri and federal law. Final Word Firearm documentation is not just about keeping records. It is about protecting the estate, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, and making the sale or transfer as smooth as possible. At MDRF Enterprises, we help families, executors, and estate professionals avoid the pitfalls that can delay probate or cause legal issues. If you need a certified appraisal or complete firearm documentation package, contact us to start the process. 📍  visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109 📞  Call us  📩  Email

Most people think of a firearm as a rifle, shotgun, or handgun. The ATF thinks differently. In fact, there are firearm components that do not look like guns at all, yet they carry the same legal weight as a complete weapon. That disconnect creates risk for families, attorneys, estate liquidators, and fiduciaries who handle collections without specialized knowledge. In this post, I want to show you four real examples that qualify as firearms under federal law. If you were sorting an estate or liquidating a collection, would you have recognized them? 1. Remington 700 Serialized Bolt The Remington 700 is one of the most popular bolt-action rifles in America. Most people would expect the rifle itself to be the regulated item. What surprises many is that the serialized bolt can also be considered the controlled component. Discarding it, shipping it, or selling it without proper handling may expose you to federal violations. It may look like just a rifle bolt, but this serialized Remington 700 component is legally a firearm. 2. Serialized AR-15 Stripped Lower A stripped AR-15 lower looks like a small chunk of metal, hardly resembling a firearm. Under federal law, however, the lower receiver is the firearm. Every transfer must go through a licensed dealer with a background check. If an executor or estate liquidator throws it into a box of “parts” or sells it at auction as scrap, they have unintentionally mishandled a firearm in the eyes of the ATF. An AR-15 stripped lower receiver may look like a piece of metal, yet the ATF defines this as the firearm itself. 3. Serialized Polymer Handgun Frame With modern pistols, the serialized frame often appears incomplete. Without a slide or barrel, it does not look like a finished gun. Yet that bare frame is the legally controlled firearm. Families who come across these during cleanouts frequently underestimate their importance, sometimes treating them like spare plastic or a Toy Gun. Doing so carries significant legal consequences. This unfinished polymer handgun frame does not resemble a complete pistol, but by law it is the firearm. 4. Sig Sauer Serialized Fire Control Unit (FCU) Perhaps the least obvious of all is the Sig Sauer Fire Control Unit. It looks like a small internal part, not a firearm. But under the ATF definition, the FCU is the serialized and regulated component. Mishandling it during an estate process is just as serious as mishandling a complete pistol. The Sig Sauer Fire Control Unit is small and easy to overlook, yet it is the serialized firearm component. The Legal Framework Federal law defines a firearm far more broadly than most people realize. According to 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3)  and 27 C.F.R. § 478.11 , a firearm includes any frame or receiver of a weapon that is designed to or can readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. That means these four parts, even when incomplete or unrecognizable, meet the legal standard of a firearm. This is why experienced professionals know that good intentions are not enough. You cannot rely on common sense when federal regulations apply. Why This Matters in Estates Estate liquidators, fiduciaries, and attorneys often encounter firearms unexpectedly. The risk is not just in the obvious rifles and pistols. The greater danger is in the serialized parts that do not appear to be firearms. Here are a few common mistakes: Selling serialized parts at auction as miscellaneous hardware. Shipping them without an FFL transfer. Discarding them as scrap. Any of these actions could create liability for the estate and potential criminal exposure for those involved. The Hidden Risk It is not the guns you see that cause problems. It is the serialized components that do not look like firearms but are treated as firearms under federal law. That is why professionals who work in estate law, liquidation, and fiduciary services should pause before moving forward on their own. Four parts, four firearms. A Remington 700 serialized bolt, an AR-15 stripped lower, a polymer handgun frame, and a Sig Sauer FCU, each one is legally a firearm under ATF rules. Would you have known? The Safer Solution At MDRF Enterprises, we identify and legally transfer all types of firearms, including serialized components that most people would miss. Our process removes liability from the estate, protects professionals from accidental violations, and ensures compliance with ATF regulations. As a Certified Firearms Appraiser aligned with USPAP standards and a licensed FFL operating in St. Louis since 2012, MDRF brings both credibility and experience. When your reputation and compliance are on the line, expertise is not optional. Final Word from Drew These four photos prove a simple point: it is not about what a gun looks like, it is about what the ATF defines as a firearm. Families and professionals cannot afford to guess. If you are managing an estate with firearms or serialized parts, call MDRF Enterprises at or visit our Professionals Page . We will handle the details safely, legally, and confidentially. ​ Serving Saint Louis City, Saint Louis County, and the surrounding Metro area 📍  visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109 📞 Call us  📩 Email

Intro: MDRF Enterprises is now officially certified by the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI)  to offer firearm appraisals aligned with USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice). These appraisals are compliant with IRS, court, and insurance standards, and available immediately. Whether you're a family member managing an estate or an attorney filing IRS Form 706, you now have a Missouri-based option for certified, defensible firearm valuations. 🔍 Why Certification Matters in Firearm Appraisals If you’ve ever been responsible for valuing a firearm, for probate, divorce, donation, or insurance, you know there’s a lot riding on that number. A flawed appraisal can lead to: Disputes among heirs or beneficiaries Delays in probate or tax processing Rejection by courts, insurers, or the IRS why MDRF Enterprises pursued formal certification through the American Gunsmithing Institute , completing over 80 hours of training, compliance, and documentation coursework. This certification means every firearm appraisal  we produce meets legal, court, and IRS requirements. We provide these services not just to private collectors, but also to bank trust officers and fiduciaries  who need reliable, defensible documentation. We are now recognized as an AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser . AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser Logo 🛠️ What a Certified Firearm Appraisal Includes Each MDRF appraisal now includes: ✅ A USPAP aligned written report ✅ Grading based on the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) ✅ Fair Market Value and  Marketable Cash Value ✅ Full supporting photos and documentation ✅ A signature from a certified appraiser, trained and credentialed by AGI To understand the full process of preparing an estate for appraisal, see our E state Firearm Checklist . This is the level of professionalism that attorneys, executors, fiduciaries, and the IRS expect. 📑 When Do You Need a Certified Appraisal? Our certified reports are valid for: Probate filings  – Fair distribution of estate assets Divorce settlements  – Accurate, court-ready valuations Bankruptcy proceedings  – Personal net worth assessments Charitable donations  – Required for IRS Form 8283 Insurance coverage or claims  – Documenting market or replacement value Expert witness cases  – Defense-ready documentation Estate attorneys and fiduciaries can also explore our full Professional Resource Hub  for supporting tools, checklists, and guidance. Whether you’re an estate attorney, trust officer, liquidator, or family member, you’ll be able to rely on MDRF for appraisal documentation that’s more than just an opinion, it’s a legally sound valuation. 🔍 What Is USPAP? USPAP stands for the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice . It governs: Accuracy and methodology Conflict-of-interest disclosures Report transparency Legal and tax compliance Following USPAP ensures your appraisal isn’t just an opinion, it’s a report that holds up under audit, in court, or with insurers. You can read more about appraisal risks and myths in our guide What’s My Gun Really Worth? Once certification is complete, MDRF appraisals will follow these standards, ensuring they’re accepted not just by clients, but by legal and financial institutions. 🎯 How We Grade Firearms: The Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) We use the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) , featured in the 42nd and 43rd editions of the Blue Book of Gun Values. This system allows us to evaluate firearms based on: Finish retention and wear Mechanical function Collector value Rarity and originality This visual grading system improves consistency, supports our documentation, and ensures our appraisals are clear, fair, and replicable. 🧾 What’s Behind the Certification? The AGI program includes: Real-world appraisals across estate, IRS, and litigation contexts Instruction on USPAP-compliant report writing Training in ethics, conflict disclosure, and documentation Proprietary forms and marketing guidelines Certification ID: #1152547 Issued: August 6, 2025 📣 What’s Next for Clients & Professionals? If you're a: Estate attorney preparing probate or IRS filings Fiduciary managing asset distributions Insurance agent setting replacement value Collector seeking a legally sound appraisal Family member handling inherited firearms You now have a certified, local appraiser ready to help. For a detailed look at our process and what sets us apart, visit our page on certified firearm appraisals  to see how we deliver accurate, documented valuations that meet professional standards. Contact us to schedule a certified appraisal or get urgent assistance for probate or insurance matters.

Holly Hills Family Sells Inherited Rifle Collection with MDRF When a new estate buyer found themselves in possession of a small rifle collection at a cleanout, they weren’t sure what to do next. There were multiple rifles, some old ammo, and uncertainty about the legal process involved in selling inherited firearms in Missouri. Holly Hills estate firearm appraisal of log gun collection securely transferred by MDRF Enterprises. Long Gun Collection from Holly Hills That’s where MDRF Enterprises stepped in. We provided a no cost evaluation of the firearms right at the residence, explaining Missouri and federal laws around inherited firearms. As a licensed FFL, we were able to legally purchase the collection on the spot, no waiting periods, no auctions, and no need for them to transport anything themselves. The buyer appreciated our respectful approach and the clear paperwork that came with the transfer. In less than 30 minutes, we had everything handled, offering fair market value and taking care of all compliance. If you’re facing a similar situation, whether in Holly Hills or elsewhere in the greater Saint Louis area, we can help. Need help understanding your options? Check out our Estate Firearm Guide  or visit the FAQ section for answers about inherited gun sales. 📍 View our Interactive Map of St. Louis Firearm Stories

Appraising a High-Grade Browning Citori Skeet Shotgun An estate in University City contacted us for a professional appraisal of a Browning Citori Grade III Skeet. This premium shotgun featured Grade III extra fancy burl walnut stocks with a gloss, checkered finish, a fluted comb, and a semi-pistol grip. The steel receiver and forend bracket displayed intricate scroll engraving, with ducks on one side and pheasants on the other, finished in a mix of blued steel and satin gray coin. The gold-plated, checkered trigger and included six Briley extended chokes added further value, along with a fitted Browning hard steel case. Under the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS), the firearm graded at 85% , confirming both its well-preserved condition and high collector appeal. Learn more about our certified firearm appraisal services  and how we determine condition and value using the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS). 📍 View our Interactive Map of St. Louis Firearm Stories Browning Citori Grade III Skeet Browning Citori Grade III Skeet University City estate firearm appraisal featuring Browning Citori Grade III Skeet safely removed by MDRF Enterprises Browning Citori Grade III Skeet Browning Citori Grade III Skeet Browning Citori Grade III Skeet Browning Citori Grade III Skeet

Repeat Client, Same-Day Results While clearing out a property in Maplewood, an estate buyer opened a small safe and found four well maintained handguns: Glock 30S in .45 ACP Kimber Custom II 1911 Ruger GP100 Taurus M85 This wasn’t their first time working with MDRF Enterprises. Having relied on us before for quick, professional firearm valuations, they knew exactly who to call. We provided an accurate appraisal on the spot and completed the purchase the same day. No delays, no auctions, and no complications, just the fast, compliant service they’ve come to expect. 📍 View our Interactive Map of St. Louis Firearm Stories Maplewood estate firearms appraisal with rifles and shotguns evaluated by MDRF Enterprises. Taurus M85 Ruger GP100 Glock 30S Kimber Custom II 1911

Every so often, a phone call turns into something unexpected. A new customer reached out through the website asking, “Do you buy cannons?” I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but that’s half the fun in this business. Winchester Model 98 We met up at their home in Kirkwood , where they showed me a vintage Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon , a black powder 10-gauge blank-firing cannon built for yacht races, July 4th salutes, and good old-fashioned noise. It wasn’t something I had planned on buying that day, but as soon as I saw it, I was sold. These little boomers aren’t firearms under federal law, but they command respect. Made of solid cast iron and steel, they’re rugged, nostalgic, and guaranteed to make your neighbors jump if you’re not careful. The cannon found a new home with me, and I’ve got no regrets. The first blast echoed like a salute to every summer I spent chasing adventure. This job never gets old. 📍 View our Interactive Map of St. Louis Firearm Stories

My Unexpected Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon Some days in this business, the phone rings and it’s just another routine call about a shotgun or a deer rifle. Other days, you get something so out of left field that it stops you in your tracks. That was me a few weeks ago, sitting at my desk when a man calls and says, “Hey, I’ve got a cannon. You buy cannons?” Now, I’ve heard a lot of unusual things in my line of work, but a cannon? That was a first. Curiosity got the better of me, and I asked him to send pictures. A few minutes later, my phone buzzed, and there it was a Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon , a relic of simpler times when “fireworks” sometimes meant black powder and brass. I’m going to be honest: I didn’t know much about cannons at that point, other than what I’d seen in old war movies or at historical reenactments. I deal in firearms every day, but this wasn’t just another gun. This was an honest-to-goodness piece of Americana, built to fire black powder blanks and announce the start of yacht races, Independence Day, or maybe just the fact that life was good. And that’s where the nostalgia kicked in. Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon appraised during a Kirkwood estate firearm evaluation The 12-Year-Old in Me Made the Call When I saw those photos, something clicked in the back of my mind, and suddenly I wasn’t sitting at my desk anymore. I was twelve years old again, back in my neighborhood with my best friend Jay. We’d build forts out of scrap lumber and spend long summer days plotting imaginary battles against enemy forces who never had a chance. If we had a real cannon back then, even one that just fired blanks, we would have ruled the world. I could practically see Jay’s grin, hear the war cries, and feel the adrenaline of “defending the fort” from every imagined threat. That thought alone pretty much sealed the deal. I didn’t know the first thing about these little black powder boomers, but the kid in me said, “You’re not letting this one go.” A Quick History of the Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon Before I get into my hands-on experience, let’s talk about what makes the Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon  such an interesting piece. Introduced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company in, yes, you guessed it, 1898, this cannon wasn’t designed for warfare. Instead, it was marketed as a ceremonial and signaling device, perfect for yacht clubs, holiday salutes, and even railroad events. These cannons were built like tanks, cast iron and steel with a solid carriage, weighing in at about 25 pounds. They were chambered for 10-gauge black powder blanks; yes, the same 10-gauge shell that’s been making shoulders sore for more than a century. Operation was straightforward: load a blank shell into the breech, close it up, pull the lanyard, and BOOM! you’ve just let the whole neighborhood know you mean business. No projectiles, just sound and smoke, which made them relatively safe for public celebrations (provided you respected black powder, which always demands caution). The Model 98 stayed in production for decades, and even today, collectors love them because they’re both functional and historically significant. They represent a slice of Americana when noise was part of the fun, and nobody called the cops when you made it. Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon Closing the Deal After a little back and forth with the seller, I loaded up and went to take a look in person. There it was, sitting in a wooden crate like some old naval relic. I picked it up, felt the heft, and thought about how many people had grinned ear to ear after pulling that cord. Before I knew it, the deal was done, and the cannon was mine. Getting Acquainted Here’s where the fun begins, and the research, because like I said earlier, I didn’t know much about these things beyond the fact that they make a loud noise. I learned that the Model 98 uses 10-gauge black powder blanks , which you can still find online or load yourself if you’re into handloading for the boom rather than the bang. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, warm water, a little soap, and oil on the moving parts. It’s not like a rifle that demands tight tolerances; this is old school iron that thrives on being simple and sturdy. Of course, before I fired it, I went down the rabbit hole of safety. Yes, these cannons are legal to own, and because they fire blanks, they aren’t classified as firearms under federal law. That said, black powder deserves respect . You don’t just throw a shell in, light it up, and hope for the best. Distance, proper hearing protection, and keeping spectators clear are non-negotiable. The First Boom The day finally came. I had a box of 10-gauge blanks, the cannon cleaned and oiled, and a nice open area to let it rip. I loaded the shell, closed the breech, threaded the lanyard through the eyelet, and took a few steps back. My heart was pounding like it did when I was a kid about to light the biggest firecracker in the stash. “Here we go,” I muttered, pulling the cord. BOOM! The sound was incredible; a deep, resonant blast that rolled across the yard and into the trees beyond. Smoke poured from the muzzle, curling into the air like a victory flag. For a split second, I just stood there grinning like that twelve-year-old kid I remembered. It was everything I hoped for and then some. Then I worried about the cops, scooped up the cannon and quickly went inside with my prize. Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon Why It Matters So, why does a Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon deserve a spot in my collection? Because it’s more than steel, it’s a time machine. It connects me to a past where life was simpler, where imagination ruled summer afternoons, and where making noise was half the fun. Firearms and cannons, apparently, aren’t just tools. They’re pieces of history, conversation starters, and sometimes, reminders of who we were before life got complicated. For me, this little cannon represents something bigger than itself: the joy of discovery, the thrill of history, and the importance of never letting go of that kid inside who dreams big and smiles wide at the sound of a really good BOOM. Final Thoughts If you ever come across one of these Winchester Model 98s, don’t pass it up. Whether you’re a collector, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates the craftsmanship of a bygone era, it’s a piece worth owning. Just remember, respect the powder, respect your neighbors, and enjoy the cannon for what it is: pure, unadulterated fun from an age when loud meant good. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got another box of blanks to burn through. By: Drew Gun Buyer | St. Louis, MO | MDRF Enterprises https://www.mdrfenterprises.com

A Featherweight with a Heavy Memory When I saw that bright little Colt Cobra in the University City collection , it was like getting yanked fifty years back in time. That particular revolver was the spitting image of the one my dad carried under his robe when he sat on the bench down in St. Francois County. Dad was a county judge, not a lawman, but he believed in being prepared. His Cobra rode in a worn leather ankle holster, snug against his right leg, hidden under his trousers. Quiet confidence in steel and wood. Colt Cobra .38 Special A Revolver Built for Discretion Colt brought out the Cobra in 1950, building on the already respected Detective Special frame. The Cobra’s claim to fame was its aluminum alloy frame, shaving several ounces off the Detective Special’s all-steel weight. That might not sound like much until you spend long days carrying it on your ankle or in a pocket. At just over fifteen ounces unloaded, the first-model Cobra was a .38 Special that disappeared on your person until you needed it. The early Cobras had the same six-round cylinder as the Detective Special, and Colt kept the same profile that made the “D-frame” guns so comfortable in the hand. What changed was the frame material, the balance, and in those first models, a gorgeous blued finish with walnut grips that made it feel like a gentleman’s sidearm. Detective Special vs. Cobra The Detective Special and the Cobra share DNA. Both are six-shot, swing-out cylinder revolvers chambered in .38 Special. Both use the D-frame, meaning holsters, speed loaders, and grips often interchange. The key difference is weight and feel. The Detective Special is an all steel gun, tipping the scales closer to twenty four ounces, and it soaks up recoil better. The Cobra, thanks to its alloy frame, is much lighter, making it more suited for discreet, all day carry. In Dad’s case, that meant the Cobra was perfect for courthouse duty. He could keep it hidden without dragging at his ankle all day, yet it still offered six rounds of .38 Special if trouble ever came through those courtroom doors. The Day I Learned About Recoil and Regret One summer afternoon, my buddy DeaDea and I were rummaging in Dad’s desk while he was “in chambers”, which meant he was probably sitting in the kitchen, smoking his cigarettes and reading case files. I slid open the bottom drawer and there it was, snug in its holster: the Colt Cobra. We didn’t talk much; we just looked at each other, grinned, and slipped out the back door. Down at the St. Francois River, the afternoon sun bouncing off the water, we lined up a row of old soda bottles. The first shot startled me, that little revolver barked loud, the muzzle rise sharper than the .22s I was used to. DeaDea missed his first shot entirely, sending a splash into the shallows. We took turns until the bottles were gone and the cylinder was empty. Colt Cobra .38 Special I wiped the gun down, reloaded it from the spare rounds in the holster, and slid it back into the desk just so. Thought I had it covered. That illusion lasted until supper. Dad put his fork down, looked me square in the eye, and asked how the St. Francois was running today. I froze. He had that slight tilt to his head, the one that meant he already knew the answer. Let’s just say I learned two lessons that day: the Cobra kicks a little more than you expect, and your father always knows when you’ve been into his things. Final Word from Uncle Kenny The Colt Cobra is more than just a lighter Detective Special. It’s a revolver with history, designed for professionals who needed discretion without sacrificing firepower. For me, it’s also a memory machine, one glimpse at a well kept first model and I’m right back on the banks of the St. Francois, hearing that sharp crack over the water. If you ever get a chance to handle one, do it. They’re a piece of American carry history, and in the right hands, they can tell one heck of a story.