The HBO series Hell on Wheels captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad and the lawless environment surrounding it. Among the many compelling characters and storylines, the pistols, particularly Cullen Bohannon's iconic weapon, often became a focal point. This exploration delves into the specifics surrounding the pistol frequently associated with Cullen, often referred to as a Griswold. Let's unpack the facts and fiction surrounding this intriguing firearm.
Identifying the "Griswold"
The term "Griswold pistol" in relation to Hell on Wheels is somewhat misleading. There's no single, definitively identified "Griswold" model consistently used throughout the series. The pistols used to portray Cullen's weapon are often variations of 19th-century revolvers, likely chosen for their visual resemblance to period-appropriate firearms. While the show's prop masters likely drew inspiration from various models, attributing them specifically to a single maker like "Griswold" is an oversimplification. The ambiguity adds to the intrigue, but it's crucial to understand that the firearm isn't a precisely defined historical model.
Common Misconceptions
The internet is rife with discussions about the exact model of Cullen Bohannon's pistol. However, many posts conflate different types of revolvers, sometimes even incorrectly identifying modern replicas as period-accurate. The lack of precise information from the show's creators only fuels speculation.
Period-Appropriate Firearms of the Era
To understand the type of pistol Cullen might have realistically wielded, we need to consider the arms commonly available during the 1860s and 1870s. These included:
- Colt revolvers: Colt's Paterson, Walker, Dragoon, and later the Army and Navy models were prevalent among frontiersmen and soldiers. Their reliability and stopping power made them highly sought after.
- Remington revolvers: Remington revolvers, known for their robust construction, were another popular choice.
- Other manufacturers: Numerous smaller manufacturers produced revolvers, though their output and survival rate were often less than Colt's or Remington's.
The Importance of the Pistol in the Narrative
Regardless of the exact make and model, Cullen's pistol serves a critical role in Hell on Wheels. It represents:
- Power and control: The pistol is an extension of Cullen's personality, symbolizing his ruthlessness and ability to survive in a brutal world.
- Symbolism of the West: The firearm epitomizes the violence and lawlessness that defined the expansion of the American frontier.
- Plot device: The pistol's presence frequently drives the action, leading to crucial conflicts and character development.
Conclusion: Separating Fact from Fiction
While the exact type of pistol wielded by Cullen Bohannon in Hell on Wheels remains shrouded in some mystery, the show's effective use of firearms as props contributes significantly to its overall atmosphere and narrative. The "Griswold pistol" serves as a useful shorthand in fan discussions, even if it's not historically precise. Ultimately, the firearm transcends its specific make and model, becoming a powerful symbol within the show's compelling storyline. Further research into 19th-century revolvers will reveal the many potential candidates that could have served as inspiration for the show's prop department.
