Remington Over Under Derringer

by Kevin Callahan

Title

Remington Over Under Derringer

Artist

Kevin Callahan

Medium

Painting - Watercolor

Description

This little gun was one of the most pictured and picturesque firearms of the Old West. Remington Model 95 over-under double-barreled derringers were manufactured from 1866 until 1935. This model is in the most popular .41 rimfire. These derringers were often featured as the last resort of the gambler, saloon girl, pimp, or hero to settle a score. They would suddenly appear from pockets, sleeves, garters, and even bowler hats to be used with frightening results. The first shot going unerringly into the opponent rendering them dead on the spot. The truth is that while many were made and purchased few were actually fired in anger. Topping it off by the fact that one might better hit their opponent by throwing the gun to more accurate effect. Though the guns have been derided by gun writers as very underpowered, I have never heard of a volunteer who asked to stand in front when the trigger was pulled.

The gun was the only over-under derringer manufactured in those days. Production began in 1866 (or 68), there were 4 models made over the years until production ceased in 1935 (or 40). It is believed that there were 150,000 over-under model 95 derringers sold before manufacturing ceased. The one pictured here is a second model and as such is a pretty early one. Serial numbers are confusing because Remington restarted the numbers with new models and batches. The number on this gun is 75 and as a second model it was probably made in the 1870s or very early 1880s as there were only 7,000 model ones sold. In the Sears catalog of 1889 the guns were listed at $5.40.

What is unique about this one you may ask? Well as I began researching for facts about the gun I used the opportunity to fully inspect it. That is when I noticed the left grip panel. The grips are checkered hard rubber. The left panel has the checkering entirely worn off. What could that mean? I conclude that the little pistol had so much handling by its owner it was worn through usage. The owner was left handed at any rate, quite possibly a gambler or a bouncer who had need of lots of practice drawing and perhaps brandishing of his weapon. Another gun mystery never to be solved.

Uploaded

December 30th, 2013

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