Selected Handgun Detail

American Derringer
Model 1
American Derringer Pistol Model 1 .30 Carbine Variant-1
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1.2-in
Length:4.82-in Height:3.35-in
Barrel:3-in Weight:15-oz
1 Variant
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (110 grain bullet)137060
  • Recoil Factor (110 grain bullet)14.16 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity2 rounds
  • ConcealabilityExcellent
  • Defense Factor54%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.30 Carbine
Action:2-barrel
Trigger:single-action (SA)
Safety:manually operated hammer block
Magazine:2-round
Frame:stainless steel
Grip:rosewood
Sights:blade front
Notes:breech loaded over/under barrels
Manufacturer
American Derringer Corporation
More Info
About the Gun

The Model 1 series is based on the Remington over/under design patented by William Elliot in 1865. The frame and barrel block are constructed entirely from stainless steel. This double-barrel derringer provides two shots with automatic barrel selection. It includes a manually operated hammer-block safety that disengages automatically when the hammer is cocked.

Production

This firearm was introduced in 1980. Current production status is unknown.

Market value
Last updated: 2/1/2026

The MSRP for a new version of this gun is approximately $700. The market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $500-$550.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .30 Carbine
Alias: .30 M1 Carbine
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:110 grains
MV:1246 ft/sec ME:379 ft-lbs
Analysis

The Model 1 is offered in a wide range of calibers, with more than 60 options historically available through custom orders. Common chamberings include rimfire rounds such as .22 LR and .22 Magnum for low-recoil practice or plinking. Centerfire pistol calibers cover .32 Auto, .380 ACP, .38 Special (including +P), .357 Magnum, .44 Special, .44 Magnum, and .45 Colt. The .45 Colt/.410 Bore combination remains one of the most requested configurations, allowing use of 2.5-inch .410 shotshells alongside .45 Colt cartridges for defensive versatility in the standard double-barrel setup. Availability of specific calibers depends on current production and custom requests, with the stainless steel construction accommodating these without dimensional changes.

User Rating
1 User Ratings
1 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
American Derringer
By 30carbine on 08 Jul 2023
An absolute beauty, the ergonomics are excellent for such a small piece. The recoil is about double of my Blackhawk and Automag III but it is definitely manageable. It’s my preferred concealed carry weapon and rounds out my .30 Carbine collection.