Deadshot’s Original Costume Deserves a Comeback

The original costume that Deadshot wore when he first fought Batman deserves to make a comeback in comics. Before he was the intimidating technological-savvy hitman that he is today, he wore a suit, top hat, and a domino mask. It was a simple look that showcased his ability to aim a gun and take hit a target.

Many members of Batman’s rogues gallery have changed through the years, some advancing with the technology of the real world. While Mr. Freeze initially wore green and pink tights, he eventually wielded armor that functioned as life support. Similarly, Batman has learned to rely on technology to fight crime, despite his proven skill using just his physicality and detective skills. Not many readers remember a time when the deadliest shot in Gotham City didn’t hide his face. However, Floyd Lawton began his career as a marksman without his full body armor.

When Deadshot was introduced in Batman #59 (1950), he didn’t have the recognizable costume that fans know from his time in the Suicide Squad. Deadshot wore a regular suit with a top hat and a domino mask, wielding a regular pistol. The minimalistic design emphasized his shooting skills, which the modern iteration of Floyd Lawton allegedly has as well. However, the modern Lawton seems to require an abundance of technology to do his job. Similar to various updated versions of Batman, Deadshot’s raw talent arguably hasn’t had much opportunity to shine with his costume’s weaponry.

As a way to prove his abilities, he could put back on a simple suit and a domino mask, and downgrade to a pistol. In a sense, it’s more intimidating what he can do without his technologically-savvy suit. Although there have been a range of costumes which Lawton has worn through his history, he is most known for wearing a mask that hides his full face. The costume isn’t very discreet, as it draws more attention to him than a regular suit would. A top hat might look suspicious in today’s world, but it wouldn’t look as concerning as a man in Deadshot’s signature suit.

With his line of work as a hitman in the Gotham underworld, discrepancy should be a priority. Considering his skillset, he shouldn’t require sophisticated gadgetry to do his job. Armor might make sense for Batman or Deathstroke, but if Deadshot is capable of hitting someone from a far distance, it’s an unnecessary look.

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