Röhm RG-14

Röhm Gesellschaft · Pistol · Discontinued

Also known as: RG14, RG Industries RG-14

Overview

The Röhm RG-14 is an inexpensive double-action, six-shot revolver chambered in .22 Long Rifle, manufactured by the German firm Röhm Gesellschaft (and its U.S. arm, RG Industries). Built around a cast zinc-alloy frame with a steel barrel, cylinder, hammer and trigger, it was sold in 2-inch snub-nose and 3-inch barrel versions. To open the cylinder the shooter removes the ejector rod from the front of the cylinder, which then allows it to swing out. It is the archetypal 'Saturday night special' - a cheap, low-quality pocket revolver.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	430 g (15.2 oz)
Overall Length	130 mm (5.12")
Barrel Length	51 mm (2.01")
Action Type	Double Action
Firing Mechanism	Double Action
Trigger Type	Double Action
Magazine Capacity	6 rounds
Magazine Type	Rotary
Effective Range	10 m (11 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Right Hand
Frame Material	Zinc
Barrel Material	Steel
Finish	Blued

Calibers

.22 Long Rifle · primary — also known as .22 LR, 5.6x15mmR

Features

Firing modes: Repeating
Feed systems: Revolver Cylinder
Features: Fixed Sights, Removable Ejector Rod Cylinder Release, Swing Out Cylinder

Production

Mass-produced budget revolver imported into the United States by RG Industries of Miami, Florida

Origin

Country of origin: Germany

Notes

Frame is cast zinc alloy (Zamak), which limits durability. The unusual cylinder-release method (pulling the ejector rod) distinguishes it from conventional swing-out revolvers.

Background

An RG-14 loaded with exploding .22 ammunition was the gun John Hinckley Jr. used in his March 30, 1981 attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan, an event that helped fuel later U.S. legislation against cheap 'Saturday night special' handguns.