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The Sopranos, one of the greatest television series of all time, captivated audiences with its gripping storytelling, complex characters, and realistic portrayal of organized crime. A key element of the show’s authenticity was its use of firearms—tools of the trade for any self-respecting mobster. From iconic handguns to intimidating shotguns, the weapons in The Sopranos played a crucial role in defining the show’s violent underworld.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the firearms featured in The Sopranos, their significance in key scenes, and their real-world counterparts. Whether you’re a fan of the show, a firearms enthusiast, or just curious about mob weaponry, this breakdown will provide valuable insights.
Handguns: The Mob’s Go-To Weapons
Handguns were the most frequently used firearms in The Sopranos, offering concealability and reliability—essential traits for mobsters who needed to be armed at all times.
Beretta 92FS (Tony Soprano’s Signature Gun)
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Caliber: 9mm
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Capacity: 15+1 rounds
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Notable Scene: Tony often carries this pistol, notably in “College” (Season 1, Episode 5) when he tracks down a rat.
The Beretta 92FS is one of the most recognizable handguns in film and TV, known for its sleek design and reliability. Tony Soprano’s choice of this firearm reflects his status—it’s a high-end sidearm used by military and law enforcement, symbolizing power and control.
Smith & Wesson Model 36 “Chief’s Special” (Paulie’s Revolver)
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Caliber: .38 Special
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Capacity: 5 rounds
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Notable Scene: Paulie Walnuts frequently carries this snub-nosed revolver, including in the infamous “Pine Barrens” episode.
The S&W Model 36 is a classic “snub-nose” revolver, favored for its compact size and reliability. Its appearance in The Sopranos aligns with Paulie’s old-school mobster persona—no frills, just pure intimidation.
3. Glock 19 (Various Characters)
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Caliber: 9mm
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Capacity: 15+1 rounds
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Notable Scene: Used by multiple associates in shootouts, including hits ordered by Tony.
The Glock 19 is a polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol known for its durability and ease of use. Its presence in later seasons reflects the modernization of mob arsenals, moving away from traditional revolvers to more efficient semi-automatics.
Shotguns: Power and Intimidation
Shotguns were used in The Sopranos for their sheer stopping power, often appearing in hits and home invasions.
Remington 870 (Frequent Enforcer Choice)
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Gauge: 12
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Capacity: 4+1 rounds (typically)
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Notable Scene: Used in the attempted hit on Tony in “The Knight in White Satin Armor” (Season 2).
The Remington 870 is a pump-action shotgun renowned for its reliability. Its use in the show underscores the brutal efficiency of mob violence—no need for precision when a single blast can end a confrontation.
Sawed-Off Shotgun (Improvised Mob Weapon)
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Gauge: 12 (often modified)
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Notable Scene: Appears in various hits, emphasizing the mob’s ruthless adaptability.
Sawed-off shotguns are illegally modified for concealability and close-quarters lethality. Their appearance in The Sopranos reinforces the theme of criminal ingenuity and brutality.
Submachine Guns: Heavy Firepower
While less common than handguns, submachine guns made occasional appearances in high-stakes mob hits.
1. MAC-10 (Silvio’s “Big Hit” Gun)
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Caliber: .45 ACP or 9mm
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Capacity: 30+ rounds
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Notable Scene: Used in the assassination attempt on Johnny Sack’s orders.
The MAC-10 is a compact, fully automatic firearm notorious for its use in organized crime. Its appearance in The Sopranos highlights the escalation of violence when mob wars erupt.
Rifles: Precision and Long-Range Threats
Rifles were rarely used in The Sopranos, but when they appeared, they signaled major turning points.
M1 Carbine (Bobby Bacala’s Hunting Rifle)
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Caliber: .30 Carbine
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Capacity: 15 or 30-round magazines
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Notable Scene: Bobby uses this rifle in “Soprano Home Movies” (Season 6), foreshadowing his tragic fate.
The M1 Carbine is a WWII-era rifle that later became a civilian favorite. Bobby’s use of it humanizes him—he’s not just a mobster but a family man who enjoys hunting.
The Role of Firearms in The Sopranos
Firearms in The Sopranos were more than just props—they were extensions of the characters who wielded them. Tony’s Beretta symbolized his authority, Paulie’s revolver reflected his old-school mentality, and the occasional submachine gun reminded viewers of the ever-present danger in the mob world.
If you’re interested in owning a firearm yourself—whether for sport shooting, hunting, or personal defense—check out the selection at Keystone Shooting Center. They offer a wide range of firearms, ammunition, and accessories to meet your needs.
