On this episode of Our American Stories in Bill Ruger and Alexander Sturm started a firearms company with a investment and a new -caliber pistol Within months orders were coming in faster than their small operation could fill them Then just as the company was taking off Sturm died unexpectedly at only years old Ruger pressed ahead He expanded into revolvers and rifles took the company public survived a costly attempt at building automobiles and even weathered a controversy that angered some of his most loyal customers Firearms historian Logan Metesh shares how a handful of men working out of [... more]

Samuel Colt became America's first industrial tycoon, and his faithful wife, Elizabeth, proved herself to be no less extraordinary, making Sam Colt's legend bigger than ever and his empire her own. Colt was the first person to make a commercially successful revolver, and his innovative designs revolutionized gun technology. Elizabeth Colt played a crucial role in rebuilding the company and creating a legacy for her husband, who struggled with business and personal issues during his lifetime. [... more]

Samuel Colt, a troublemaker with an idea, created the first commercially successful revolver, revolutionizing firearms design. His wife, Elizabeth, played a crucial role in rebuilding the company and immortalizing his legacy. Their story is a testament to innovation and perseverance in the American gun industry. [... more]