SK Guns®, the Nation's only series-driven, limited-edition manufacturer of custom firearms, is proud to announce Los Niños Héroes de Chapultepec as the 2026 SHOT Show Gun of the Year. This limited-edition production is limited to only one of 200 Colt 1911s chambered in .38 Super.
The Los Niños Héroes de Chapultepec pistol pays tribute to the six Mexican military cadets who, in 1847, sacrificed their lives defending Mexico City's Chapultepec Castle during the Mexican-American War. The bravery of these six cadets – Juan de la Barrera, Agustín Melgar, Fernando Montes de Oca, Vicente Suárez, Francisco Márquez and Juan Escutia – has become a symbol of national honor and patriotism in Mexico.
"While the certain details of this battle are muddy, the legacy of Los Niños lies with what they represent in Mexican culture," said Simon Khiabani, owner and founder of SK Guns. "The actions of these brave heroes symbolize loyalty, courage and the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their nation. It has become a core element of the national identity, reminding future generations that acts of courage and honor can resonate far beyond their moment in time."
The left side of the gun's slide frames the six cadets with a scroll of flowers indigenous to Mexico. These flowers represent hope and national pride, dignity and creative resilience with inner strength. The rear panel features the iconic Colt serpent logo in 24k gold.
Featured on the right side of the gun's slide is the Altar a la Patria monument in Chapultepec Park in Mexico City. This monument was built in commemoration of the Niños Héroes, and is engraved in 24k gold with a flower scroll border mirroring that of the left side.
The top of the slide replicates the Chapultepec Castle, with its name and year engraved in 24k gold. The back showcases a period-accurate Mexican Eagle and the engraving "Battalon Activo De San Blas" (translated: "San Blas Active Battalion") to commemorate the Mexican infantry unit that the cadets were assigned to.
This limited-edition pistol not only serves as a piece of art that honors a significant moment in Mexican history. Collectors and enthusiasts can appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship and historical significance embodied in each piece.
Los Niños Héroes de Chapultepec will begin shipping from April 2026.
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About SK Guns/SK Customs
SK Guns has changed the future in being the industry's only series driven custom, limited-edition, production of manufactured collectible firearms. The SK Guns® brand has taken the next step to further deliver its vision on what custom limited-edition means by being "Uniquely Custom®".
The team of master engravers, expert finishers, historians and master gunsmiths dedicate themselves to every detail within our brand of SK Customs® production lines of custom firearms. To learn more about the company's past, current and future products, visit skguns.com.