Gunsmith Cats [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 3]

Gunsmith Cats: A Blast from the Past That Still Packs a Punch

If you’re into classic anime with a mix of high-octane action, sharp wit, and a dash of fan service, Gunsmith Cats is a must-watch—even if it’s criminally short at just three episodes. Released in 1995 by OLM, Inc. (the same studio behind Pokémon and Berserk), this OVA adapts Kenichi Sonoda’s manga into a compact but explosive ride through the dangerous streets of Chicago.

The Premise: Bounty Hunters with Attitude

The story follows Irene “Rally” Vincent, a sharpshooting badass, and her explosives-loving partner, “Minnie” May Hopkins. Together, they run Gunsmith Cats, a firearms store that’s as legally dubious as it is cool. Their lives take a turn when Bill Collins, an ATF agent, blackmails them into helping him take down a gun-running operation. What follows is a series of shootouts, car chases, and enough explosions to make Michael Bay jealous.

Fans on MyAnimeList have praised the show’s tight pacing and stylish execution. One user summed it up perfectly: “Tough chicks, gunfights, and classic cars… Love the art style as well!” Another added, “The comedy was good, the art style is great, pure aesthetic.”

Why It Stands Out

1. The Action: The gunfights are over-the-top but undeniably fun. Rally’s mid-air gun catch in the first episode is a standout moment, backed by a killer soundtrack that fans compare to Cowboy Bebop. One viewer joked, “The gunfights are high-key BS, but wtf am I expecting from a copy of American police action?”

2. The Characters: Rally and Minnie-May have fantastic chemistry. Rally’s cool-headed precision contrasts hilariously with Minnie-May’s chaotic love for explosives. Fans adore their dynamic, though some wish the blackmail angle didn’t dominate their relationship. “I hope their relationship moves away from this hostile phase,” one commenter noted.

3. The Setting: The American backdrop feels fresh for an anime, complete with classic cars and a gritty urban vibe. “Americanized anime always feels refreshing,” a fan remarked.

The Downsides

The biggest complaint? It’s only three episodes long. Many fans lamented the lack of more content, with one saying, “Sucks it’s only 3 episodes though.” Others pointed out the rushed pacing, with one user calling it “a little bit too fast.”

Final Verdict

Gunsmith Cats is a gem from the ’90s that still holds up today. It’s stylish, action-packed, and full of personality—even if it leaves you wanting more. As one fan put it, “Great first episode! The comedy was good, the art style is great… Sucks it’s only 3 episodes though.”

If you’re in the mood for a short but sweet dose of retro anime awesomeness, give Gunsmith Cats a shot. Just don’t blame us when you’re left craving more.

Rating: 4/5 – A near-perfect blend of action and charm, held back only by its brevity.

What do you think? Have you watched Gunsmith Cats? Drop your thoughts below!