[willp58]

We have an American Derringer that is chambered for 45 long colt/.410.

It will chamber the 45 long colt shells but will not accept the .410 shells.

We have a box of new .410 Winchesters and they will just barely start in but will not chamber at all..

What is the problem?

[Badger Arms]

Well, there are two versions that I know of. If you have the 2 1/2" shells, they should work. Not entirely sure about the longer shells. They should go in further than what you describe, though. I'd suggest contacting the manufacturer to see what the problem is.

[foghornl]

Has it been fired a lot with .45's?

Could be the "short ammo crud build-up" issue similar to that which you sometimes get with firing .38Spl in .357Mag revolvers.

Could also be a .410 shotshell length question...2-1/2" vs. 3" shells

[1911Tuner]

Off-Topic...

I shot one of those things in .44 Magnum once upon a time. Two rounds was all it took.

For a close approximation of what it was like...raise your open hand
straight over your head. Now, just as hard as you can, slam it down on a sturdy table. That's about it...

Whew!

Tuner

[atlctyslkr]

I tried a 38 special derringer once and it really hurt. I can't imagine a 44 mag. I've thought about getting one that will hold 32 mag. I've got a 22 lr now but I doubt it will do much if I really needed it.