NRA Museums Accepts CIA Deer Pistol

by
posted on May 23, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
deer_lede.jpg

NRA Museums Senior Curator Philip Schreier accepted a CIA Deer Pistol into the museum’s collection on Tuesday, May 22, 2018. Donating this extremely rare artifact was Master Armorer Thomas Ring. Mr. Ring donated both an original (relic) condition Deer pistol as well as a tool-room prototype replica (with a rifled barrel) that he made himself. 


Wikipedia image

The Deer Pistol is considered the Vietnam era successor to the OSS .45 ACP Liberator from World War II. The Deer Pistol was made in 1964 and meant to be used arming resistance fighters who needed a 9 mm pistol.

Fewer than 10 of these are known to exist and this relic example is possibly the only specimen likely to be on public display in this country.

To learn more or to schedule a visit go to nramuseum.com

Latest

magazines with ammo
magazines with ammo

Old (Un)reliable: Finding a Magazine that Works for Your 1911

There have been more than 100 manufacturers of 1911-style pistols and magazines, some more faithful to the original drawings than others.

3 New Shotgun Suppressors for 2026

Just because you're in the field hunting for upland game or busting clays at your local range doesn't mean you can't protect your hearing.

First Breach Begins Trading on NASDAQ Under "FBDT" Ticker Symbol

In August 2026, First Breach Defense Technologies, a producer of ammunition and unmanned aerial systems based in Hagerstown, Md., announced that its common stock had begun trading on the NASDAQ capital market under the ticker symbol "FBDT."

Review: Franchi Momentum Elite MULE

Franchi’s Momentum Elite MULE is a not-quite-a-scout rifle that has a lot to offer the modern rifle shooter.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 24, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

I Have This Old Gun: Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece

Smith & Wesson's rimfire K-22 Masterpiece revolver proved that quality costs, but it also sells.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.