American Derringer

They seem to be weirdly in, and out, of business and, have been for years. Can’t quite figure them out.

Not much is going to break on one. I’ve owned several, still own one.

I think it’s a great modern interpretation of the classic derringer.

I’d get another.

I read in a book that they were sued because a gun dropped and fired wounding a cop. Said cop sued and they could not stay in business fighting the legal costs. They do put together some guns based on existing parts inventory. The owner has come on forums but I haven't seen that in years.

Certainly, I do not see new guns or a table (as they used to have at) at Texas gun shows. That's all I know and its veracity is unknown. Just relaying what I read.

They're cool and iconic but my M1 was a bear to deploy with any kind of speed or surety. Nevertheless, because they're cool and iconic they probably have greater resell appeal than the Browning. In your shoes, I'd make the trade, sell the derringer, and get a pocket .380 for my last ditch gun.

I've had an American Derringer M1 in 45/410 since 1991. Traded it once, got it back, put elephant ivory grips on it. Overall it's a great little novelty gun. I won't get rid of it. But, it gets shot and carried less than any other gun I own.

Positives: Cool design, can shoot a .410 field load and makes a good snake gun for woods walks. The 45 LC is a proven stopper.

Negatives: Slow to get into action. Limited to 2 shots before reloading. Heavy compared to other pocket options. Not very accurate at other than close personal distance. Has awkward heavy trigger pull.

If you're not getting it for the cool novelty factor, keep what you got.

Cump said:

Does any one know if they are supposed to be drop-safe like the bonds?

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They have a cross bolt safety. You lower the hammer on it, when you cock it has a spring release.

I have had several Derringers. Not fun to shoot. Slow to get into action.

The only one I liked was a High Standard 22 magnum. It is a double action. Fast to shoot and fairly accurate

You can still buy parts from them, so I'd say they're still in business (I just did.). The business was started by Robert Saunders, who later passed away. It is run now by his wife, Elizibeth. I don't think she's a spring chicken though and when she decides to retire or passes I would think that could well be the end of ADC.

The safety is excellent in design and execution and ease of use.

My .45 ACP/AR weighs one pound loaded. These days there are many lighter pocket pistols, but not in a real caliber. This is a very strong derringer (they made them in .44 Mag/ .45 Winchester Mag) and mine is loaded with a 260 grain Keith at a measured 900 feet.

I like 'em, but of course your mileage may vary.


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