Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Here we have a unique Colt 1878 which we have previously covered but it’s an excellent opportunity to talk about a figure from history! This revolver belonged to General Rafael Buelna. Rafael Buelna was a Mexican Revolution commander who packed quite a career into his short 33 years. Starting as a student journalist in 1890, he jumped into the revolution at just 19 years old and quickly rose through the ranks to become a general. He made a name for himself fighting under various leaders, though he’s best known for a bold moment when he nearly executed future president Álvaro Obregón over a dispute. After switching sides several times and even spending time in exile in the United States, Buelna fought his last battle in 1923 during the Delahuertista Rebellion. In an interesting twist, he captured but then freed another future president, Lázaro Cárdenas, shortly before meeting his own end in an ambush near Morelia in January 1924. Though his military career lasted just 15 years, Buelna’s youth, courage, and dramatic life made him one of the revolution’s most memorable characters.
“Manufactured in 1881, with a blade front sight, top strap groove rear sight, “45 CAL” on the left side of the trigger guard, “H 5 5 B” on the rear of the cylinder, “79” on the loading gate, serial number at the toe, a period nickel plated finish, “B” and “6W” under the left grip, a lanyard loop on the butt, and carved grips with an “RB” monogram and “Gl. Rafael Buelna Estado de Sinaloa” inscribed on the left panel and a liberty cap and a golden eagle, snake, and cactus motif based on the Coat of Arms of Mexico on the right panel. Information on General Rafael Buelna Tenorio (1890-1924) accompanies the revolver.”
Lot 83: General Rafael Buelna Colt Model 1878 Revolver – Historic Villista General Rafael Buelna’s Colt Model 1878 Double Action Revolver with Attractive Incised and Inscribed Grips. (n.d.-a). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved February 16, 2025, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4090/83/general-rafael-buelna-colt-model-1878-revolver.
Writer | TheFirearmBlog
Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.
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