This "15-shot repeater" water gun manufactured by Daisy Manufacturing Company of Michigan in 1936 by came in two finishes: a brightly painted red and yellow toy and this more rare copper-colored version.
Fictional space heroes often carried space-themed versions of the Western's ever-present six-shooter or rifle. As a result, for several generations, pretend gun play with ray gun toys formed a central part of many children's imagined space adventures. Exactly how one blasted space enemies often reflected the newest technologies. In the late 1940s, "atomic" guns proliferated. "Laser" guns followed the creation of the practical laser in 1960.
Collector Michael O'Harro donated this toy ray gun to the Museum in 1993.
Display Status
This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
MEMORABILIA-Popular Culture
Manufacturer
Daisy Manufacturing Co.
Dimensions
3-D: 19.1 x 5.1 x 15.2cm (7 1/2 x 2 x 6 in.)
Materials
Overall, metal, probably steel; barrel tip, probably brass
Inventory Number
A19970790000
Credit Line
Gift of Michael O'Harro. Restrictions unknown, Copyright John P. Dille
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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