Six iconic firearms compete in Idaho state gun vote

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - It's time to decide which gun best represents Idaho in the upcoming election. Although, the vote itself is non-binding, it will advise the state legislature on the voter's preferences.

There are six guns to choose from:

• Winchester Model 1894 (.30-30)
• Winchester Model 1873 (.44-40)
• 1873 Colt Single Action Army Revolver (.45 Colt)
• M1 Garand rifle
• Colt M1911 .45 automatic Colt pistol (.45 ACP)
• Remington Model 700 bolt-action rifle (.30-06)

Each one has their own unique ways to relate to Idaho. Here is a brief history of each, if you are interested to learn why these firearms were selected, you can find the background here.

The Winchester Model 1894 is generally used to hunt deer and other medium-sized game. This firearm is closely associated with hunting, ranching, and rural life, which many Idahoans identify with.

The Winchester Model 1873 is "The gun that won the West" and the most associated with Western expansion. Winchester guns says it was used by, "Cowboys, Native Americans, Ranchers, Farmers, Pioneers, Law Enforcement Agents, and Outlaws."

The Colt Single Action Army Revolver, also know as "The Peacemaker". Arizona has already selected this one as their state gun and it is a well known gun for frontier culture.

The M1 Garand represents military service, patriotism, and was the standard U.S. service rifle during World War II.

The Colt M1911 is one of the longest-serving military sidearms in U.S. history and it is already Utah's official state firearm.

To round out the docket, the Remington Model 700 is an extremely popular hunting rifle. Although it lacks some of the history of the other competitors, it is a common gun for Idaho hunters.

Whichever gun wins will reflect something distinctly Idaho.