WB
The Mormon Avenger...
Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 08:47

I pulled this out of the safe for us to enjoy some. It is on display in my office at work to share and have for conversation. It is little fun, tucked away from view.

I bought it partially done and talked Gary into getting on board with the project and finishing my special piece. It is one of a kind. You may find others modded but this is very special. It is a 1861 (not 1851) Colt .36 "Navy" that was period modified as per the historical record. The box is a fine cigar box covered in leather. They still sell them at $250-300 for (20).

It makes a fine desk accessory and looks the part. It includes the needed pieces to load, fire, and maintain the 6-shot revolver.

Gary did some etching/engraving to really set the piece off and make it unique. It even has homage to the movie "High Plains Drifter" that is one of my favorites. We are not trying to fool anyone as to this Italian's heritage, just have some fun and maintain this interesting historical reference. What good is something if you can't have some fun and share it?

The "Mormon Avenger" refers to Orrin Porter Rockwell, a legendary, fearsome frontiersman and bodyguard for Mormon leaders Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, known as the "Destroying Angel of Mormondom" for his fierce loyalty, gunfighting prowess, and mysterious invincibility, often linked to prophecies about his uncut hair and a modified pistol named the "Mormon Avenger" itself. He was a complex figure—a lawman, scout, and a symbol of Mormon protection against enemies during their difficult westward migration, despite his violent reputation.

Key Aspects of Porter Rockwell:

• Bodyguard & Protector: He served as a close, loyal protector for early Mormon prophets, especially Joseph Smith.

• The "Destroying Angel": This nickname highlighted his ruthless effectiveness against those who threatened the Mormon faith, fulfilling prophecies about divine protection.

• Uncut Hair & Prophecy: A famous prophecy claimed Rockwell would be protected as long as he didn't cut his hair, adding to his mystical aura.

• The "Mormon Avenger" Pistol: He famously carried modified, sawed-off Colt revolvers, with one such pistol becoming a collectible known by this name.

• Controversial Figure: While a hero to many Mormons, he was feared by enemies and involved in violent conflicts, though he claimed he only killed those who "needed killing".

• Died Naturally: Despite his violent life, he died of natural causes in 1878, not from bullets, solidifying his legendary status.