In the 1960s, most Kansas boys worshiped guys such Willie Mays. I idolized Roy Weatherby. Arguably the most innovate firearms designer of the last half of the 20th century, Weatherby’s namesake rifles were as gorgeous as they were functional. His cartridges were faster and more powerful than standard fare. Hunting magazines held photos of Weatherby in exotic places, using revolutionary firearms to take charging Cape buffalo. Hollywood heavies on “The American Sportsman” used his products often. The first time I handled a Weatherby rifle is as vivid in my mind as my first slow dance. My appreciation for the man...