Rifleman Q & A: The Deringer Line

by
posted on March 1, 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. **
derringer.jpg

Q: I have this old gun with markings on the barrel’s rib, “DERINGER PHILADA. PATd JUNE 3, 1873.” Deringer is spelled with one “r.” It is a .22-cal., seven-shot, single-action, spur-trigger pocket revolver. The 3"-barrel tips up for cylinder removal and loading. The cylinder is fluted. The serial number is 15XX and is stamped on the curved butt of the frame. The barrel is blued and the frame appears to be nickel-plated. The bird’s head grips are smooth, dark wood. The front sight is a silver-looking blade, and the rear is a V-groove in the frame behind the hinge. The hammer is knurled and has case-hardened colors. I have not had success finding information on this pistol, and I am seeking help.

A: Henry Deringer, of the famous Deringer percussion pistol, died in 1868, but some of his relatives continued his firearm business for a few years and manufactured your metallic cartridge revolver. The pistols were virtual copies of the Smith & Wesson tip-up barrel revolvers of the time. Your revolver, with its rounded barrel, is of the Second Model made, and was manufactured from about 1875 until roughly 1879. Only about 6,500 of this model were produced, and your gun appears to be an excellent example.

--Charles W. Pate

Latest

Chiappa Big Badger 01
Chiappa Big Badger 01

New For 2025: Chiappa Big Badger

Chiappa's Little Badger has long been a popular, affordable, break-action survival rifle chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. Now, the design has been upsized into the Big Badger, available in several centerfire chamberings.

Preview: Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit

The U.S.G.I. canteen and cup are classic pieces of kit due to their efficient design and durable construction, and they are practically updated in the Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit.

Gun Of The Week: Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR

On this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the latest version of one of the most popular bolt-action rifle platforms out there. This is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 29, 2025

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

Bullpup Your AR-15: The A3 Industries Triad Modular Bullpup Chassis

This chassis kit provides a handy way for AR fans to try a bullpup carbine on for size.

Hillsdale College & The Shooting Sports

Hillsdale College has invested in the Second Amendment and the shooting sports in a way that few schools have. At its John A. Halter Shooting Sports Education Center, collegiate shotgun and action pistol teams compete and build their firearm-handling skills.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.