Rip Snorter

The Rip Snorter pinball machine, released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in the early 1950s, exemplifies the classic Americana-themed electro-mechanical pinball machines of the post-war era. With its western-themed artwork and naming convention typical of the period, this machine captured the public's fascination with cowboy culture that dominated American entertainment at the time.

The machine featured the characteristic elements of early 1950s pinball design, including mechanical score reels, pop bumpers, and the signature Gottlieb build quality that made them an industry leader during this period. The playfield likely incorporated the standard features of the era: kick-out holes, rollover switches, and wire roll-under returns, all operating through purely mechanical means.

While specific production numbers are not well-documented, Rip Snorter represents an important transition period in pinball history, as manufacturers were beginning to introduce more complex scoring mechanisms and playfield features. The western theme would have resonated strongly with audiences during the golden age of TV westerns and frontier entertainment, making it a likely success in locations ranging from bars to drugstores across America.