Firearms History And Collecting
Fudd Friday: Does Fitz Equal Fudd?
Fudd Friday: Does Fitz Equal Fudd?
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Manchester, New Hampshire
In the world of firearms, modifications have always been a topic of discussion, particularly when we examine historic alterations like the Fitz Specials of yesteryear. What goes through the mind of an enthusiast when they come across a snub-nose revolver, its trigger guard modified in such a way that it commands both admiration and criticism? Welcome to another edition of Fudd Friday, where we delve deep into the modifications pioneered by John Henry Fitzgerald, and explore whether such alterations hold any relevance in todays world. John Henry Fitzgerald, born in Manchester, New Hampshire around 1870, was no ordinary figure in the firearms community. Before revolutionizing carry guns, Fitzgerald gained experience as an early fighter and served with the NYPD and New York State Troopers. His mark in the shooting sports was realized when he was employed by Colt in 1918 as a representative and custom gunsmith. Fitzgerald didnt just tinker; his knowledge was backed by a . He advocated for two-handed techniques long before they became the norm and even taught these practices across multiple law enforcement agencies in the United States. Fitzgerald's modifications were pragmatic, designed for a time when concealment was paramount for self-defense. Lets break down what typically constituted a Fitz Special. The modifications included a barrel shortened to 2 inches, a bobbed hammer spur, and the infamous removal of the front half of the trigger guard. This removal was not just cosmetic; it allowed for quicker access to the trigger, especially for men with larger hands subjected to winter gloves. While it also enabled firing from within a pocket, such tactics remain controversial and demanding of careful training. Few original Fitzgerald conversions exist today, estimated between 40 and 200, as these were custom pieces tailored for specific individuals who required effective solutions tailored to their carry needs. As years passed, many gunsmiths adopted the Fitz modifications style, which led to varying qualities of replication. The market reflects this disparity, with genuine Fitzgerald Colt revolvers often fetching between $6,000 and $8,000, whereas poorly executed conversions can devalue a firearm significantly. Modern gun manufacturing has come a long way since Fitzgeralds time. Smith & Wesson's J-frame Centennial series illustrates this evolution perfectly, offering features that solved many of the issues Fitzgerald aimed to address, such as snag-free pocket carry and improved safety mechanisms. As we step into 2025, it becomes even clearer that while appreciating historical innovations like the Fitz Special is essential, practical application has shifted towards modern designs that offer equal or superior performance without the inherent risks. So, should one invest in creating a Fitz Special today for carry? The answer is a definitive nofor actual defensive use, modern snub-nosed revolvers outperform the historical Fitz modifications both in safety and reliability. However, for collectors or those with a genuine interest in the history of firearms modifications, creating a Fitz as a project gun can still be rewarding, just as long as one understands the distinctions between a collector's piece and a practical carry gun. Fitzgerald himself wasnt a fudd in the derogatory sense; his modifications were a product of their time, addressing real concerns with the tools and technology available. In contrast, insisting on these modifications today, despite superior factory alternatives, leans into the realm of nostalgia rather than addressing modern needs. Fitz Specials play a significant role in the evolution of defensive firearms, and an appreciation for their historical value is crucial. Yet, the reality remains: duplicating these methods for contemporary use lacks sufficiency and purpose. Manufacturers have taken the lessons learned from Fitzgerald's time and integrated them into better designs. As the firearms community continues to evolve, understanding where weve been can enhance our appreciation for where we are going. The fine line between historical admiration and practical decisions rests heavily on the awareness of current advancements and the deliberate choices we make in our firearm selections today.