Tom Horn

Tom Horn (1980)

The second to last movie that Steve McQueen made before his death. This movie is a somewhat fictionalized account of the real Tom Horn who was found guilty of the 1901 murder of a fourteen year old sheepherder called Willie Nickell in Wyoming. Horn was executed for the murder in 1903. Horn served as a civilian Army scout in the Apache wars in Arizona and possibly served as a Pinkerton later. He was working for the Cattleman Association in Wyoming at the time of Willie Nickell's murder. Part of his work was to deal with sheep farmers.There is much myth and controversy surrounding Tom Horn. This movie incorporates both myth and what was then current historical research. Though not a success when it was released in the spring of 1980 the movie has come to assume something of a cult status in the years that have followed. Also notable for featuring the Winchester Model 1876 which is used by McQueen throughout the movie.

The following guns can be seen in Tom Horn:

Winchester Model 1876

Used by Tom Horn (Steve McQueen) throughout the movie. Prior to this film the Winchester Model 1876 was not featured in Hollywood westerns. The Winchester Models 1873, 1892 and 1894 were the rifles that got all the attention.

Winchester Model 1876 "sporting" configuration in 45-60 WCF with 26 inch barrel

Steve McQueen as Tom Horn carrying the Winchester Model 1876

Steve McQueen as Tom Horn holding the Winchester Model 1876. Photo shows how large the 1876 is.

Colt Single Action Army

Used by different characters in the movie.

Colt Single Action Army w/ 4.75" barrel, referred to as "Quick-Draw" or "Civilian" model.