Street
smoke wagon
What does smoke wagon mean?
A smoke wagon is a gun, especially a revolver, evoking the smoke it discharges. It is Old West and early crime slang.
"Slap leather or I'll open up with the smoke wagon."
Origin
American frontier/underworld slang, late 19th century.
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'smoke wagon'?
A smoke wagon is a gun, especially a revolver, named for the smoke it discharges when fired.
Where does the term come from?
It is American frontier and underworld slang from the late 19th century, strongly associated with the Old West.
Is it still used?
It is dated and mostly appears in Western fiction and period pieces, prized for its colorful, old-fashioned ring.
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