Bullet Points of Drama: How Legendary Firearms Define Top British TV Series

The United Kingdom has long been renowned for its compelling and intricately plotted crime television series, weaving tales of mystery, suspense, and the complex lives of detectives. British crime shows stand out not just for their clever storytelling and deep character development, but also for their unique atmosphere, dry wit, and a certain British charm that can’t be replicated elsewhere.

“Endeavour,” a prequel to the iconic “Inspector Morse,” takes viewers back to the 1960s and 70s, capturing the early career of the young Detective Morse. His journey through the ranks of the Oxford City Police is marked by sharp intellect and a haunting backstory, all while being accompanied by the sight of classic firearms like the Colt M1911A1 and Walther P38.

“Lewis,” the successor to “Morse,” follows Robbie Lewis as he steps into the shoes of a Detective Inspector. The show intricately blends the challenges of policing in modern Oxford with personal tribulations, all amidst the occasional appearance of firearms like the Beretta 92FS and the Glock 17, which add intensity to the narrative.

In the picturesque yet perilous world of “Midsomer Murders,” the peaceful English countryside is repeatedly shattered by bizarre and intricate crimes. Beyond its quirky characters and unexpected humor, the series also showcases an array of firearms, from the Browning Hi-Power to the Luger, playing pivotal roles in its murder mysteries.

“Sherlock” brings Sherlock Holmes into the 21st century, infusing Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective stories with modern technology and contemporary themes. The series is not just a mental playground of puzzles and wit but also features moments of action and danger, underscored by firearms like the Beretta 92FS Inox and the suppressed M1911A1.

“Luther” delves into the darker side of London’s crime scene, following Detective Chief Inspector John Luther as he battles both his personal demons and the city’s most sadistic criminals. The series is gritty, intense, and unflinching, with firearms such as the Glock 17 and the Makarov PM adding to its gritty realism and suspense.

These shows collectively highlight the best of British crime television, offering viewers a blend of intellectual challenge, character depth, and the stark, often brutal reality of crime. The presence of classic firearms, each with its own history and significance, adds an extra layer of authenticity and intrigue, making these series unforgettable chapters in the vast anthology of British television…

IMDb RATING: 7.9/10
Creator: Caroline Graham
Stars: John Nettles, Jane Wymark, Barry Jackson
Guns: Browning Hi-Power, Beretta 92FS, AK-47, M1911A1, CZ-75, Luger

“Midsomer Murders” is a quintessentially British detective series, based on the “Chief Inspector Barnaby” book series by Caroline Graham. The show is set in the fictional English county of Midsomer, known for its picturesque villages and a surprisingly high murder rate. It follows the investigations of Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby and his successors, solving intricate murder cases that unveil the dark secrets lurking beneath the idyllic surface of rural life.

The series is renowned for its elaborate murder plots, where the peaceful and bucolic setting contrasts sharply with the gruesome and inventive nature of the crimes. It incorporates a unique blend of suspense, mystery, and British humor, providing a satirical look at the eccentricities of rural life and the stereotypical portrayals of the British upper class.

The series also plays with stereotypes of British society, often depicting its characters in exaggerated and humorous ways, highlighting their quirks and peculiarities. This gentle mockery, combined with the show’s intriguing mysteries, creates a charming and captivating viewing experience.

Main Characters

DCI Tom Barnaby (John Nettles): The original lead investigator, known for his astute detective skills and dry wit.
DCI John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon): Tom’s cousin, who takes over the position after Tom’s retirement, continuing the legacy of solving crimes with a keen eye for detail.
Sergeant Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey): Tom Barnaby’s first assistant, naive yet eager to learn.
Sergeant Ben Jones (Jason Hughes): Another assistant to Tom, known for his dedication and resourcefulness.
Sergeant Charlie Nelson (Gwilym Lee): Assists John Barnaby, bringing a fresh and enthusiastic approach to the investigations.

Firearms

Browning Hi-Power (S09E01 “The House in the Woods”): A Browning Hi-Power, used for a murder 18 years prior, is discovered in an abandoned house’s chimney, playing a crucial role in unraveling the episode’s mystery.

Beretta 92FS (S11E06 “Days of Misrule”): Alec Grainger aims a Beretta 92FS at James Parkes in the opening scene, immediately establishing the episode’s tense atmosphere.

AK-47 (S14E07 “A Sacred Trust”): During a flashback scene set in an African country at war, several native soldiers are seen carrying AK-47 assault rifles, adding authenticity to the storyline.

M1911A1 (S17E03 “The Ballad of Midsomer County”): A police photo reveals the body of Johnny Carver, who committed suicide using an M1911A1-style pistol, contributing to the episode’s dramatic narrative.

CZ-75 (S18E06 “Harvest of Souls”): A mysterious assassin uses a CZ 75 pistol, showcasing the series’ incorporation of diverse firearm types.

Luger (S21E02 “The Miniature Murders”): The Luger serves as the murder weapon, adding a historical and intriguing element to the episode.

We made miniatures of all these iconic weapon models. Some of them are even in multiple variants. Even our first models are upgraded over time. We make them more reliable, and their appearance even more realistic. For example, you can order the Luger in full metal version, as we developed at first, and it also is available with wood grips now. This is a fairly simple model for a 2mm pinfire cartridge. Even a person who encounters a miniature weapon for the first time will intuitively be able to handle it. Despite the fact that the mechanism has been changed, we always keep the proportions as close as possible to the original. If your circle of friends includes intellectuals interested in history, this model will be a welcome gift for them.

“Midsomer Murders” captivates its audience with intricate murder mysteries, a unique sense of humor, and a satirical portrayal of British society, all set against the picturesque backdrop of rural England. The series’ use of diverse firearms contributes to the storyline’s intensity and authenticity, making it a standout in the detective genre.

In this world there’s two kinds of people, my friend; those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig.

I’m not stirring on Sunday for anything less than murder.

IMDb RATING: 9.1/10
Creators: Mark Gatiss, Steven Moffat
Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Una Stubbs
Guns: Beretta 92FS, Glock 17, M1911A1, Walther PPK, AK-47

“Sherlock” is a contemporary rendition of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes detective stories, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. Set in modern-day London, the series reimagines the legendary detective as a “consulting detective” utilizing his remarkable intellect, sharp observational skills, and modern technology to solve complex crimes. Sherlock’s unique personality and unconventional methods make him an enigmatic figure, both admired and misunderstood by those around him.

The series is renowned for its intricate plotlines, rapid-fire dialogue, and the dynamic between Sherlock and Watson. The use of modern technology plays a crucial role in the series, showcasing how Sherlock’s extraordinary mind works in the 21st century. The show also incorporates a dark and atmospheric tone, combined with moments of humor and wit, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience.

The series often breaks the fourth wall, and its fast-paced editing style, along with Sherlock’s visualized thought processes, allows the audience to delve into the detective’s mind. The intricate storytelling and complex characters have garnered a massive following, making “Sherlock” a cultural phenomenon.

Main Characters

Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch): A consulting detective with a brilliant mind but lacking in social graces. He is highly observant and deductive, often solving cases that baffle Scotland Yard.
Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman): A former army doctor and Sherlock’s loyal friend and partner. He is the grounding force to Sherlock’s erratic behavior and provides a humanizing influence.
Detective Inspector Greg Lestrade (Rupert Graves): A member of Scotland Yard who often seeks Sherlock’s help on cases. He admires Sherlock’s abilities but is sometimes frustrated by his unconventional methods.
Mrs. Hudson (Una Stubbs): Sherlock and Watson’s landlady. She cares deeply for both of them, despite their tendency to turn her quiet home into a chaotic crime-solving hub.
Mycroft Holmes (Mark Gatiss): Sherlock’s older brother, who works for the British government. He is just as intelligent as Sherlock but uses his skills in the realm of politics and espionage.
James “Jim” Moriarty (Andrew Scott): Sherlock’s arch-nemesis, a criminal mastermind who is as brilliant as he is psychotic. He has a fascination with Sherlock and seeks to challenge him at every turn.

Firearms

Beretta 92FS: Henry Knight wields this gun in “The Hounds of Baskerville,” with Dr. John Watson later seizing it. In “The Reichenbach Fall,” Moriarty uses the same gun in a critical scene where he shoots himself, creating a shocking and pivotal moment in the series.

Glock 17: Prominently featured in “A Scandal in Belgravia,” with Detective Inspector Greg Lestrade notably carrying a stainless version, which is an unusual choice for a British police officer, adding an element of intrigue to his character.

M1911A1: Appears in “The Reichenbach Falls,” used by an assassin masquerading as a repairman, contributing to the episode’s intense and dangerous atmosphere.

Walther PPK: Used by Mary Watson in “His Last Vow,” revealing a hidden and darker side of her character, and adding depth to the storyline.

“Sherlock” brings a modern twist to the classic detective genre, intertwining brilliant storytelling, complex characters, and modern technology. The series’ use of firearms adds intensity and suspense, playing a crucial role in unfolding the intricate plots and revealing hidden facets of the characters..

Dear God. What is it like in your funny little brains? It must be so boring.

IMDb RATING: 8.4/10
Creator: Neil Cross
Stars: Idris Elba, Dermot Crowley, Michael Smiley
Guns: Smith & Wesson Model 12, Walther PPK, Beretta 92FS, Glock 17, Makarov PM

“Luther” is a gripping British television crime series that explores the complex life of Detective Chief Inspector John Luther, portrayed by Idris Elba. Luther is a brilliant yet volatile detective, known for his ability to delve into the minds of the criminals he hunts. However, his dedication to his job comes at a personal cost, as he struggles to balance his intense work life with his tumultuous home life. The series, set against the backdrop of London’s dark and gritty streets, showcases Luther’s relentless pursuit of justice as he tackles a series of challenging and brutal cases.

The series is renowned for its intense and emotional storytelling, with Luther’s character being at the forefront of its appeal. His ability to connect with the darkest aspects of humanity makes him an exceptional detective, but it also leads him down a perilous path, blurring the lines between right and wrong. The show’s dark tone, complex characters, and moral ambiguity create a unique and compelling viewing experience.

Main Characters

DCI John Luther (Idris Elba): The main protagonist, Luther is a dedicated and brilliant detective, known for his ability to solve complex cases. However, his intense approach to his work takes a toll on his personal life, leading him to face internal and external conflicts.

DSU George Stark (David O’Hara): A dedicated officer who often finds himself at odds with Luther due to their differing approaches to policing.

DCI Erin Gray (Nikki Amuka-Bird): A by-the-book detective who initially admires Luther but grows skeptical of his methods as she witnesses his volatile behavior.
Mary Day (Sienna Guillory): A love interest for Luther, Mary becomes entangled in the dangerous world of his police work.

DS Emma Lane (Rose Leslie): A young and determined detective who works alongside Luther, proving herself to be a valuable asset to the team.
George Cornelius (Patrick Malahide): A recurring character, Cornelius is a criminal figure who shares a complicated history with Luther.

Firearms

Smith & Wesson Model 12: Carried by Owen Lynch as a backup weapon during his sniper attacks on London, adding a layer of intensity to the episode.

Glock 17: Used by several CO19 officers as their sidearms, showcasing the standard issue firearm for British police forces. Additionally, non-firearms officers DSU George Stark and DCI Erin Gray arm themselves with Glock 17s, highlighting the extreme circumstances of the situation.

Beretta 92FS: Briefly wielded by a hitman attempting to assassinate Luther, the weapon later ends up in the hands of DS Emma Lane, illustrating the perilous nature of police work.

Makarov PM: Used by one of George Cornelius’ henchmen to threaten Errol Minty, adding an element of danger and showcasing the variety of firearms present in the series.

“Luther” is a series that delves deep into the psyche of its main character, exploring the balance between genius and madness. The inclusion of firearms in the series serves to heighten the tension and drama, playing a crucial role in the unfolding of the narrative and the development of the characters.

— So where’s the gun? It’s got to be somewhere. Everything’s somewhere.
— I don’t know.
— Say that again. That was special.
— I don’t know where the gun is.

IMDb RATING: 8.6/10
Creator: Shaun Evans
Stars: Shaun Evans, Roger Allam, James Bradshaw
Guns: Colt M1911A1, Walther P38, Browning Hi-Power, Walther PPK, Makarov PM

“Endeavour” is an ITV detective drama series, serving as a prequel to the iconic “Inspector Morse.” The show revolves around the early career of the young Endeavour Morse, portrayed by Shaun Evans, as he starts his journey in law enforcement. Set in the Oxford City in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Morse begins as a Detective Constable and is later promoted to Detective Sergeant. The series dives deep into his complex character, showcasing his unique approach to solving crimes, his struggles with authority, and his development into the renowned detective we see in “Inspector Morse.”

Main Characters

The plot unfolds with Endeavour Morse joining the Oxford City Police Criminal Investigation Department, where he uses his remarkable intellect and unconventional methods to solve intricate cases. Other main characters include Detective Inspector Fred Thursday, Morse’s mentor and father figure, played by Roger Allam, and Chief Superintendent Reginald Bright, portrayed by Anton Lesser, who oversees the department.

Firearms

Firearms play a significant role in the series, contributing to the intensity and drama of the show.

Colt M1911A1 (Season 1): This classic American pistol appears in the first season, adding to the show’s historical authenticity. Its presence in various episodes underscores the violence and danger inherent in Morse’s line of work.

Walther P38 (Season 3): The Walther P38, a German World War II-era pistol, makes an appearance in the third season. Its inclusion reflects the series’ attention to detail and adds depth to the historical setting of the series.

Browning Hi-Power (Season 4): This semi-automatic pistol is featured in the fourth season, showcasing the diversity of firearms used throughout the series and contributing to the show’s dynamic action sequences.

Walther PPK (Season 5): The Walther PPK, renowned for its association with James Bond, appears in the fifth season. Its sleek design and compact size make it a memorable addition to the series, enhancing the suspense in pivotal scenes.

Makarov PM (Season 6): The russian-made Makarov PM is introduced in the sixth season, bringing an element of Cold War intrigue to the series. Its presence reflects the geopolitical tensions of the time, adding a layer of complexity to the show’s narrative.

“Endeavour” is a compelling prequel to “Inspector Morse,” providing viewers with insight into the early years of the enigmatic detective Endeavour Morse. The series stands out for its intricate plotting, complex characters, and historical authenticity, with firearms playing a crucial role in heightening the drama and tension throughout the series.

That was British Imperial, sir. A body’s been found at the factory. Looks like murder.

So that you understand how much our thirst for creating miniatures is unstoppable, we even made this Soviet Makarov pistol. If you already have American and German pistols in your collection, you’ll probably want to add some Soviet as well. Our 2mm pinfire Makarov Pistol will be a good choice. It is compact, but no less powerful. This model is made with love for details.

About the Author

My name is Olha Polah, and I have been working in miniature weapons production since 2015. I started the mini firearms brand and have been running the brand’s Instagram page since 2016. The brand’s miniatures are popular worldwide, with fans in 25+ countries. I became the sole owner of the brand in 2018 and created a comprehensive line of miniatures. More than 60 models of miniature weapons from various historical periods have been created. In November 2023, I was interviewed by Robert Dunn for the GunTech magazine, where I talked about the hardships I had to endure in my business. I also run a newsletter for the brand’s customers, which has evolved into a full-fledged magazine with in-depth articles published on the wpolah.com.

My mission is to make people’s lives more joyful by sharing interesting facts about miniature weapons and inspiring everyone to express themselves.