Revolvers hold a special place in American firearm culture. While polymer-framed semi-autos dominate today’s carry and duty markets, wheelguns have never really fallen out of favor. Their simplicity, mechanical reliability, and old-school appeal keep them in demand with collectors, first-time gun buyers, and seasoned shooters alike. Whether it’s for concealed carry, hunting, target practice, or just collecting something classic, these nine revolvers continue to be among the most purchased in the country – and for good reason.
Here’s a look at nine revolvers Americans can’t seem to get enough of.
1. Ruger Blackhawk Convertible
Ruger’s Blackhawk Convertible brings together the best of both worlds – timeless single-action cowboy vibes and modern versatility. What sets this model apart is its dual-cylinder system, which allows shooters to swap between .357 Magnum/.38 Special and 9mm Luger. No tools required, just a quick change and you’re ready to go with whatever ammo is on hand.
This design gives shooters flexibility, especially in times of ammo shortages. It comes with Ruger’s standard rugged features – cold hammer-forged barrel, precise rifling, and their signature transfer bar safety system. Available in 4.625″ and 6.5″ barrels, you can pick what suits your shooting style best.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38
Compact, affordable, and ideal for self-defense, the M&P Bodyguard 38 is a top pick for concealed carriers across the U.S. This snub-nose .38 Special revolver weighs only 14.2 ounces unloaded, making it light enough for everyday carry, even in a pocket or ankle holster. It’s rated for +P ammunition, giving users more power without compromising concealability.
The design includes an ambidextrous cylinder release at the top of the frame, a polymer grip that maximizes control, and a long ejection rod for smooth reloading. Its snag-free profile and fixed sights make it practical for fast, close-range defense.
3. Taurus Raging Hunter .357 Magnum
For revolver fans who want something big, bold, and powerful, the Taurus Raging Hunter in .357 Magnum is hard to beat. Known for its aggressive styling and recoil-taming ported barrel, this six-shot revolver is made for those who want a high-performance wheelgun for hunting, sport shooting, or range fun.
It features a two-piece angular barrel, a cushioned grip, and a gas expansion chamber that helps absorb recoil – making .357 Magnum feel more like .38 Special. The dual lockup cylinder adds durability, and the Picatinny rail allows you to mount optics easily.
4. Colt King Cobra
Colt brought the King Cobra back with modern upgrades, and it’s quickly become a favorite for revolver enthusiasts looking for a dependable .357 Magnum. Its brushed stainless steel frame is both durable and good-looking, and it comes with comfortable rubber grips to help manage recoil.
The King Cobra features a six-round cylinder, brass bead front sight, and an adjustable rear sight for solid accuracy. It’s a step up from the smaller Colt Cobra in size and strength, making it a smart pick for those who want classic styling with modern-day performance. With both standard and carry DAO models available, it appeals to shooters, collectors, and concealed carriers alike.
5. Heritage Rough Rider
Arguably the most purchased revolver in America, the Heritage Rough Rider earns its spot with a price tag that’s hard to beat and the fun factor of a classic cowboy gun. This .22 LR single-action revolver is perfect for backyard plinking, training new shooters, or just having a low-cost rimfire option around.
What makes the Rough Rider stand out is its hammer block safety, a rare feature for a single-action revolver, which adds peace of mind for beginners. Available in barrel lengths from short 3″ models to an over-the-top 16″ version, the options are nearly endless. Some models even include 22 Magnum cylinders or tactical upgrades like rails and fiber optic sights.
6. Colt Python
If there’s one revolver that oozes prestige and performance, it’s the Colt Python. When Colt revived this iconic model in 2020, revolver fans rejoiced. The updated version features a stronger stainless-steel frame and a thicker top strap, allowing it to safely handle full-power .357 Magnum loads.
Available in barrel lengths of 3″, 4.25″, and 6″, it caters to both casual shooters and serious collectors. The Python is renowned for its smooth double-action trigger, crisp break, and polished looks. Laminated walnut grips and precision sights round out the package. It’s a must-have for any serious revolver collection.
7. Colt Viper
The Colt Viper made a surprise comeback recently, and sales quickly spiked. Originally released in the 1970s as a lightweight .38 Special revolver, the modern version steps it up by using the newer King Cobra platform, allowing it to fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special.
Offered in 3″ and 4.25″ barrel lengths, the Viper balances classic aesthetics with modern construction. It features Colt’s clamshell-style cylinder release, checkered walnut grips, and a DA/SA trigger with respectable pull weights. This gun appeals to fans who want a touch of vintage Colt styling with modern functionality.
8. Ruger Blackhawk
Built like a tank and made to last a lifetime, the original Ruger Blackhawk is one of the most beloved single-action revolvers in America. With over 2 million sold, its reputation speaks for itself. This gun is ideal for those who love old-school simplicity and rock-solid dependability.
It’s perfect for hunting, target shooting, or even as a trail gun. You’ll find it in several calibers including .357 Magnum and .45 Colt, with some models offering interchangeable cylinders. The action is crisp, the sights are adjustable, and the gun can handle serious abuse.
9. Taurus Judge
The Taurus Judge earns its name by being both versatile and a bit intimidating. What makes this revolver unique is its ability to chamber both .45 Colt and .410 bore shotshells. That’s right – you can shoot shotgun shells out of this thing, which is why many people buy it for home defense or as a truck gun.
The rifled barrel makes it legal to own as a handgun while still letting it spread pellets at close range. The trade-off is some loss of accuracy, but that’s not a concern when you’re shooting buckshot at 7 yards. The Judge comes in a variety of finishes, barrel lengths, and weights.
Wheelguns Still Win
Despite the explosion of striker-fired polymer pistols and micro-compacts, Americans still love revolvers. Whether it’s the smooth trigger pull of a Colt Python, the budget-friendly appeal of a Heritage Rough Rider, or the trail-ready toughness of a Ruger Blackhawk, revolvers offer something uniquely satisfying. They’ve got soul. They’re often easier to operate for beginners, less likely to malfunction, and still favored in many hunting and defense scenarios.
Revolvers may seem old-fashioned to some, but their popularity proves they’re anything but outdated. With models covering every price range, caliber, and use case, there’s a reason wheelguns keep spinning off the shelves.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.