The Cody Firearms Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West has completed a major renovation, transforming its 40,000-square-foot space to tell a more comprehensive story of firearms in American history. [24] The updated museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian, moves beyond a simple display of its vast collection to provide deeper context and interactive experiences for a diverse audience, including those with no prior firearms knowledge. [17, 24]
This redesign was prompted by guest surveys that revealed a significant portion of visitors were unfamiliar with firearms, including basic safety principles. [24] In response, the museum's entire front section is now dedicated to teaching firearms handling and safety. The new galleries are organized thematically, covering topics such as the 'Evolution of the Firearm,' 'Firearms of the West,' 'Military History,' and the 'Science of Firearms and Ammunition.' [24]
The renovation allows for a much larger portion of the museum's collection—which exceeds 10,000 artifacts—to be displayed. At least a thousand more firearms are now on view. [24] But the focus is not just on quantity. The museum has incorporated modern interactive displays, including touchscreen technology, videos, and hands-on exhibits. Visitors can use simulators to learn the basics of firing a handgun, shotgun, and even an M2 machine gun, or practice the manual of arms on a bolt-action rifle. [24]
According to curator Ashley Hlebinsky, a well-known firearms historian, the goal is to interpret the entirety of gun history and its role in all aspects of human endeavor. [24, 29] This includes not only the technical and military aspects but also the 'Art of Firearms,' with a gallery dedicated to engraving and other decorative arts.
The revitalized museum aims to be a leading educational resource, bridging the gap between firearms enthusiasts and the general public. By providing historical context and practical safety education, the Cody Firearms Museum is positioning itself as a crucial institution for fostering a more informed public discourse about firearms.
The renovation of the Cody Firearms Museum is a strategically important move for the firearms community. In an era of intense political polarization, creating a space for genuine education is critical. By focusing on historical context and hands-on safety training, the museum is moving beyond simply being a 'gun collection' and becoming an educational institution. The decision to cater to a novice audience is particularly astute; it acknowledges that for many people, a museum may be their first and only direct encounter with firearms. This initiative provides an opportunity to demystify firearms and present a nuanced, fact-based narrative about their role in history, technology, and society. It's a long-term investment in public understanding, and its success will be measured by its ability to engage and inform, not just impress.