Category Uncategorized
Today in history: 1799 first USA contract for pistols
Over two centuries ago, a metal worker in Connecticut was awarded a contract by the U.S. government to make 500 horse pistols.
Simeon North, who had manufactured agricultural equipment, such as scythes, would take that contract and expand his business, moving it from Berlin to Saddle Hill.
North would gain fame for his role in championing interchangeable parts and for pioneering milling machines. These innovative machines saved time compared to hand-milling and enabled the rapid production of firearm parts.
North was paid $6.50 for those first horse pistols, a value of about $177.00 today in 2026.
Presidents’ Day: Honoring America’s Leaders
Originally begun in 1800 to honor our nation’s first president, George Washington, the Presidents’ Day holiday evolved to what we know today. On the third Monday in February, we honor all who have served as the United States of America’s President. The day we celebrate the holiday on was changed in 1971 from George Washington’s actual birthday of February 22 to the third Monday of the month; this created a popular three-day weekend for the workforce. Learn more about our American presidents here at the White House history website.
ShotShow 2025
Gun Cleaners of Colorado will be attending ShotShow 2025 in Las Vegas from January 21-24. Use the ShotShow app to find us (Mike Axelrod, Bernie Axelrod) on the floor if you’d like to say “hey” or meet up at a particular booth.
Sorry, we can’t take all of you with us (it’s not open to the public). But, you can take a look at what ShotShow is like here.
A Christmas Song?
On Christmas Day in 1896, John Phillip Sousa, wrote “Stars & Stripes Forever” a popular patriotic march tune played to this day, most notably by the United States Marine Corps Band. (Watch and listen to the band play the march here!)
Add to your playlist of Christmas music this year?
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!
Thankful and mindful
Thanksgiving is a national holiday that has a long and sometimes troubling history. Give thanks today for everyone that has been on this land before us, with us, and in the future. This Land is Their Land offers a more complete history of Thanksgiving.
Now THIS is a Mask
Make a statement when you must wear a mask with this fantastic “Claymore Mine*” mask created by a local (Monument) artist. Come get yours in our shop today!
(*This is NOT an actual Claymore. Resemblance to an actual Claymore is fully intentional.)
We are OPEN – Critical Retail
Gun Cleaners of Colorado is OPEN for business even during Covid 19 “Stay at Home” orders. Firearm Stores are considered a “Critical Retail” and thus remain open and ready for business.
