Frank Wesson Superposed Derringer
Frank Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1868
Also known as: Frank Wesson Superposed Pistol, Frank Wesson Swivel-Breech Derringer, Frank Wesson Watch Fob Pistol, Frank Wesson Two-Shot Superposed Pistol
Overview
The Frank Wesson Superposed Derringer is a compact two-shot superposed (over-under) rimfire pocket pistol built in Worcester, Massachusetts, from the late 1860s to about 1880. Its twin barrels rotate on a central axis (a swivel-breech mechanism) so each is fired in turn by a single spur-trigger, single-action hammer. Offered in several frame sizes, the smallest '.22 Short 'Watch Fob' model measured under four inches overall and was carried as a discreet last-ditch defensive pistol.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 145 g (5.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 89 mm (3.50") |
| Barrel Length | 44 mm (1.73") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 240 m/s (787 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 55 J (41 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 5 m (5 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 45 m (49 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Conventional |
| Frame Material | Brass |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Rosewood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .22 Short · primary — also known as .22 Short Rimfire, .22 RF Short
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Fixed Twin Barrels, Manual Breechloading
- Safety mechanisms: Half-Cock Hammer Notch
- Features: Superposed Over-Under Twin Barrels, Swivel-Breech / Rotating Barrel Loading, Spur Trigger, Bird'S-Head Grip, Gold Bead Front Sight, Watch-Fob Ring Hammer (Small Frame)
Production
Estimated total produced: 3,000 · Production years: 1868-1880
Fewer than 3,000 produced across all frame sizes and calibers.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Frank Wesson
Discontinued: 1880
Notes
The small-frame .22 rimfire version is known as the 'Watch Fob' model, identified by its ring-topped hammer. Larger frames were chambered for .32 and .41 rimfire. Barrels are marked 'FRANK WESSON WORCESTER. MASS.' with patent dates.
Background
Frank Wesson, younger brother of Smith & Wesson co-founder Daniel B. Wesson, produced a range of small tip-up and swivel-breech arms from his Worcester shop. His superposed derringer answered the era's demand for an easily concealed two-shot 'muff' or vest-pocket pistol, competing with the ubiquitous single-shot Deringer and the Remington double derringer.