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Tanaka Colt Aircrewman 'R-model' Heavyweight Model Gun
About Real Colt Aircrewmen Revolver
The Colt M13 Aircrewmen Revolver was a unique firearm that prioritized lightweight construction over safety. It was commissioned by the United States Air Force, specifically the Strategic Air Command, to provide their airmen with a compact and lightweight emergency sidearm. Both Colt and Smith & Wesson were contracted to produce the M13 Aircrewmen revolver with identical specifications, but the parts between the Colt and S&W versions were not interchangeable. This created two distinct variants of the M13 with the same name.
The need for a lightweight emergency sidearm arose in the 1950s when the US Air Force had to keep nuclear-capable bombers airborne at all times as a deterrent against the Soviets. The risk of being shot down over hostile territory was a genuine concern. The M13 Aircrewmen was officially adopted by US Air Force servicemen in 1951.
Remarkably lightweight, the Colt M13 Aircrewmen weighed only 11 ounces when fully loaded with six rounds of M41 .38 Special ammunition. The M41 round was specifically developed for this revolver and featured a low-pressure load with a 130-grain FMJ projectile. It is important to note that firing regular .38 Special ammunition was not recommended due to the aluminum construction of the frame and cylinder. Regular .38 Special ammo was too powerful for the aluminum components, posing a significant safety risk.
Finding authentic Colt M13 Aircrewmen revolvers today is extremely challenging as Colt produced a limited number of them. The risk associated with attempting to fire regular .38 Special ammunition ultimately led to the Air Force recalling the guns. Most of the recalled revolvers were recovered and subsequently destroyed in 1959. To learn more about this fascinating piece of Cold War history, I recommend watching the Forgotten Weapons YouTube video where Ian McCollum discusses the Colt M13 Aircrewmen revolver in detail.
About Toy Model Gun
The
Tanaka Colt Aircrewman 'R-model' Heavyweight Model Gun serves as a
highly accurate replica of the original Cold War-era antique. Tanaka has
gone above and beyond in providing this particular revolver with the
intricate details it deserves. Every feature found on the authentic gun
has been faithfully reproduced on this model, including the correct
markings in their respective locations. Additionally, the model gun
comes with real wood grips adorned with US Air Force shield grip
medallions. Its craftsmanship is so exceptional that, at first glance,
it could easily be mistaken for a real metal firearm. However, despite
being made of high-quality heavyweight plastic, this model gun is far
from "cheap." It carries a substantial weight and, when combined with
various metal components, provides a realistic feel akin to that of a
metal gun. Components such as the hammer, trigger, and cylinder
contribute to the pistol's lifelike appearance, making it an excellent
choice for both collectors and film enthusiasts.
Operating this model gun is a delightful experience. The
double-action mechanism operates smoothly and directly, while pulling
the trigger slowly offers a buttery-smooth sensation without any gritty
feeling. The trigger breaks cleanly, and its reset is crisp and
positive, accompanied by the satisfying sound of the rotating cylinder
as the pistol prepares for the next shot. These exceptional
characteristics exemplify the effort Tanaka has invested in making this
revolver truly stand out.
Given the rarity and difficulty in obtaining the original gun due to
its limited production and subsequent destruction, the Tanaka Colt
Aircrewman model gun provides a genuine opportunity to own a piece of
Cold War history. It is important to note, however, that this model gun
is non-firing and intended for display purposes.
Tanaka Colt Aircrewman 'R-model' Heavyweight Model Gun
Heavyweight Colt Aircrewman Revolver Model Gun
Highly detailed with a classic charm
Realistic Bullet Type housing chamber (6 Rds Dummy Bullet Included)
Wood Texture Polymer Grip
Metal components include the hammer, trigger, and cylinder
Excellent Craftsmanship with Textured grip and Solid Pistol Frame
Realistic appearance suitable for collectors, film, or cosplay prop
Authentic look & finishing by Tanaka Works, Japan