Deringer Gun
Question
Hello, I have a question about a gun i have. I hope you help me with a question of is this a Fake? This gun is very nice looking with gold engraving. This gun says on side plate DERINGER PHILADELPHIA ( NOT DERRINGER ).. Also has 1855 SPAIN on top of the barrel. There is numbers and 44cal- also along the side of barrel. Yes there is also a pattern on the handle. I think there is an iron rod for muzzel loading-( Do not know if it comes out or is for show). This Gun Looks to have an octogon barrel. Hope you can tell me ANYTHING About this. Thank-You..
Answer
Hello Sarah.
Your deringer is not a real 1800's Deringer. It was manufactured in Spain by Jukar. It was imported into the USA in the mid 1970's. You could buy one as a finished pistol or as a 'do it yourself kit'. The retail value at the time was $44. The kit was $38. The value now is not much more, possibly $50-$75 if in excellent condition. I advise you not to shoot it, since the internal parts may be rusted, as the rod must be since it is difficult to remove. If you do choose to shoot it, use ONLY blackpowder of the appropriate grade and amount. It would make a neat shadow box item.
I hope this answers your question and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage
German SUHL pocket gun
Iver Johnson 12 gauge