shooting iron

noun

Informal.

1. a firearm, especially a pistol or revolver.

shooting iron

noun

1. slang,  a firearm, esp a pistol

Word History and Origins

Origin of shooting iron¹

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90

Example Sentences

Mary Surratt did not tell Colonel Wells about Booth’s April 14 visit to her, the binoculars, her carriage ride to Surrattsville, nor her instructions about the “shooting irons.”

From Literature

It’s not like in the movies, where the sheriff tells all the buckaroos they can’t ride into town with shooting irons.

From Washington Times

John Lloyd, who was renting the tavern from Surratt at the time, testified that Surratt told him to have the “shooting irons” ready for pickup on the night of April 14.

From Washington Post

Despite their beauty and value, these are fine shooting irons and all three pieces can be custom-fitted to the winner.

From Forbes

Who, as you might guess from that title, possess their share of shooting irons as well.

From Seattle Times