Colt Second Model Deringer

Colt · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1870

Also known as: Colt No. 2 Deringer, Colt 2nd Model Derringer, Colt .41 Deringer No. 2

Overview

The Colt Second Model Deringer is a single-shot, .41 rimfire pocket pistol produced from about 1870 after Colt bought out the National Arms Company. Based on Daniel Moore's design, its barrel pivots laterally to expose the breech, where a knife-blade extractor lifts the spent case. The Second Model is distinguished from the all-metal First Model by its wood (varnished walnut) or ivory grip panels. Marked 'No 2' on the barrel and serial-numbered, roughly 9,000 were made before production ended around 1890.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	200 g (7.1 oz)
Overall Length	124 mm (4.88")
Barrel Length	64 mm (2.52")
Action Type	Break Action
Firing Mechanism	Single Action
Trigger Type	Single Action
Magazine Capacity	1 rounds
Muzzle Velocity	130 m/s (427 fps)
Effective Range	7 m (8 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Right Hand
Frame Material	Brass
Barrel Material	Steel
Stock Material	Wood
Finish	Nickel Plated

Calibers

.41 Short Rimfire · primary — also known as .41 RF, .41 Short, .41 Rimfire

Features

Firing modes: Manual
Feed systems: Single Shot
Safety mechanisms: Hammer Block
Features: Single Shot, Pivoting Barrel, Spur Trigger, Knife Blade Extractor, Varnished Walnut Grips

Service history

Operators

Civilian

Production

Estimated total produced: 9,000 · Production years: 1870-1890

Approximately 9,000 Second Models produced; First and Second Models combined estimated near 15,000 units

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Designer: Daniel Moore

Discontinued: 1890

Notes

Standard barrel length was 2 1/2 inches (about 64 mm), though small-batch variations exist. A very limited number were produced in .41 centerfire. Combined First and Second Model production is estimated at around 15,000 units. Weight is approximated; period bird's-head-grip pocket deringers are rarely listed with a published mass.

Background

Colt entered the deringer market in 1870 by buying out the National Arms Company rather than developing its own design, inheriting Daniel Moore's lateral pivoting-barrel pistol. The acquired First and Second Models were sold under the Colt name before engineer F. Alexander Thuer reworked the concept into the cheaper, best-selling Third Model.