What does hog leg refer towhen talking guns?

"Hog leg" is a slang term for a short-barreled pistol, often a revolver. It's commonly associated with the Old West, where cowboys would carry them tucked in their waistbands, with the barrel pointing toward their leg.

Here's why it's called a "hog leg":

* Short barrel: The term "hog" refers to the animal's short, thick legs. The short barrel of the pistol was likened to a hog's leg.

* Concealed carry: These pistols were typically concealed, often tucked into the waistband of the pants. This was similar to how a hog would carry its leg tucked under its body.

It's important to note that "hog leg" is a colloquial term and may not always refer to a specific model of firearm.

Examples of guns that could be called "hog legs":

* Colt Single Action Army (Peacemaker) with a short barrel: This was a popular choice among cowboys and was often modified with a shorter barrel for easier concealment.

* Smith & Wesson Model 3 Schofield: This was another popular revolver in the Old West, and its smaller size made it a good candidate for the "hog leg" designation.

* Any short-barreled pistol: Even modern pistols with short barrels can be referred to as "hog legs" in informal settings.

While the term "hog leg" is mostly associated with the Old West, it can still be used today to describe any short-barreled pistol.