The weapon most commonly used by the Pony Express riders was the 1851 Colt Navy featured in this scene. This popular revolver with its beautifully carved Slim Jim style holster is resting on a leather mochilla. These mochillas were made specifically for the Pony Express and had four leather, lockable mail pouches sewn onto their surface. The mochilla allowed the mail to be transferred from one horse to another without changing saddles. There are three letters featured in the painting with actual Pony Express cancellation stamps and a period US Postal stamp. In an effort to reduce weight, many riders carried an extra loaded cylinder for their pistol rather than an additional revolver.