“repeater”

Smith & Wesson's origins can be traced to 1850, when Horace Smith and D B. Wesson first became acquainted while working as subcontractors supervising the manufacturing of different firearms at the Robbins and Lawrence Company in Windsor, Vermont. Now, after more than 160 years in existence, the company created by their eventual partnership is one of the most well-respected of its kind. As you might imagine, a lot can happen—and be forgotten—during such an expansive history. With that in mind, here are 10 things you probably didn't know about Smith & Wesson.

Everyone loves a lever gun. Here are five of the finest ever made.

There is something unique and romantic about the concept of a single-shot rifle. Especially if that rifle is the venerable Ruger No. 1.

Both cartridges are easy on the ears and have minimal recoil, yet are effective for any of the smaller species for which they are suited. Which is the better choice for the hunter? Contributor Philip Massaro examines the pros and cons of each.

If you’re looking for a compact, quick and scope-sighted (or red dot) coyote/varmint/deer rifle or personal defense rifle, the Henry Long Ranger Express, chambered in .223 Remington, is worth a hard look.

Contributor B. Gil Horman tests out a magnum-chambered rimfire varmint slayer from Henry, as sure to impress in the field as it is on the range.

The new HEVI-Metal Xtreme shotshells use a blend of 30 percent tungsten and 70 percent precision steel along with the proven FliteControl Flex wad for a deadly load that is every bit as capable of clean kills as the original.

The Tikka T3x Lite is a wonderful balance of portability, accuracy and dependability. It’s available in time-proven varmint and big-game calibers, has a user-adjustable trigger, the action is nicely bedded and it carries like a dream.

The Matrix—TriStar’s first inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun—features a fiber-optic front sight post to naturally draw the eye when pointing at birds and an oversized trigger guard for the comfortable use of cold-weather gear when shooting.