The Handguns of General Patton: His Personal Side Arms and Tactics

General George S. Patton, Jr., was known not only for his military strategies but also for the sidearms he carried both in and out of battle. Although he was associated with several handguns, the most noteworthy among them include the Colt 45 Auto, .357 SW Revolver, and .45 Revolver. These weapons played a significant role in his operations, especially during his time in Mexico.

Patton's Handguns and Their Usage

Patton carried several handguns, which included a Colt 45 Auto, a .357 SW Revolver, and a Colt .45 Revolver. Among these, the .45 Long Colt Single Action revolver (1873 Army Model) and the .357 Magnum Smith Wesson revolver were the ones most associated with him.

According to aides and relatives, the Colt .45 Colt was his daily carry weapon, while the .357 was for specific situations. This dedication to specific firearms demonstrated his meticulous approach to both personal and tactical needs.

During his travels and patrols in Northern Mexico, Patton and his team, which included three 1916 Dodge touring cars, demonstrated remarkable efficiency and precision. One notable occasion involved arriving at a ranch belonging to the uncle of Patton. His nine riflemen were strategically positioned behind the steel bodies of the cars, surrounding the ranch and effectively flanking it. This tactic was crucial in achieving surprise and overwhelming the opposition.

Notable Firearms in Patton's Collection

Among the firearms in Patton's collection is a Colt .45 Long Colt Single Action revolver from 1873. Notably, there is an image showing two notches for 'banditos' on the barrel of his Colts. The report from Patton's aide suggests that this revolver was prominently featured in his personal arsenal due to its reliability and accuracy in various situations.

Additionally, General Patton owned several ivory-handled revolvers, which he took great pride in. He was known to get angry when reporters referred to them as 'pearl-handled revolvers,' highlighting his attention to detail and personal preferences in his weaponry.

The Colt Single Action Army .45 Peacemaker and the SW 357 Magnum were among the most frequently mentioned weapons associated with Patton. These guns were not only reliable but also iconic, often seen in his personal collections and used in important operations.

Conclusion

General Patton's choice of hand weapons reflected his deep appreciation for the power and precision these firearms could offer. His strategic use of these revolvers in various missions, particularly in Mexico, highlights their importance in his overall military tactics. The stories and anecdotes surrounding these firearms only add to the legacy of this iconic military figure.

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This image shows two notches for two banditos on his .45 cal peacemaker