Frank Wesson Pocket Pistol
Frank Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1865
Also known as: Frank Wesson Tip-Up Derringer, Frank Wesson Single Shot Pocket Pistol
Overview
The Frank Wesson Pocket Pistol is a single-shot, spur-trigger pocket pistol chambered in .22 rimfire, produced by gunmaker Frank Wesson from the mid-1860s. It uses a spring-loaded tip-up barrel that pivots upward for loading when a lever beneath the action is released and the hammer is set at half-cock. With a roughly 3.5-inch barrel and a brass frame, it was marketed as a compact, easily concealable defensive arm during the American rimfire pistol boom that followed the Civil War.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 200 g (7.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 152 mm (5.98") |
| Barrel Length | 89 mm (3.50") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 329 m/s (1079 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 102 J (75 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Brass |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .22 Short · primary — also known as .22 Short, .22 Rimfire
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Notch
- Features: Tip Up Barrel, Spur Trigger, Single Shot
Service history
Operators
- Civilian market
Production
Production years: 1865-1888
Produced in several frame patterns and sizes; exact totals are not well documented.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Frank Wesson
Discontinued: 1888
Notes
Distinct from Frank Wesson's larger 'Pocket Rifle' target pistols, which used detachable shoulder stocks. The pistol is marked with Wesson's patent dates of October 25, 1859 and November 11, 1862.
Background
Frank Wesson was the younger brother of Daniel B. Wesson of Smith & Wesson, and ran his own firearms business in Massachusetts, becoming best known for his single-shot rifles and pocket pistols.