Make: National Arms Co.
Model: No. 1 Deringer
Serial Number: 6054
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1865-1870
Caliber: .41 Short Rimfire
Action Type: Single Action, Single Shot, Pivot Barrel
Barrel Length: 2 1/2"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a slot in the hammer spur.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is integral to the silver-plated brass frame. The grip has checkered panels on the back and on each side. The frame retains much of its silver plate with some areas worn through to the brass. There are some tiny nicks and minor scratches. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grip is in Fine condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Silver-Plated Brass & Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is well defined. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates about 5/10.
Overall Condition: This derringer retains about 55% of its metal finish. The barrel has mostly gone to an even patina, showing scattered surrface oxidation. The frame has some finish loss, but retains much of its silver plate. There are some scattered minor nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Very Good-plus condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this derringer. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards..
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The first large-caliber metallic cartridge derringer, Moore’s Patent Fire Arms Co. produced the No. 1 Deringer from 1860-1865. The design would be taken over by National Arms Co. and produced through 1870 when it would in turn be bought by Colt. The design is simple, compact, yet has significantly more punch than contemporary .22 derringers.
This example is in Very Good-plus condition as Antique, retaining much of its original finish and strong mechanics. These little guns are quite collectible and this will make a neat example of the National Arms Co. production pieces between a Moore's and Colt. Please see our photos and good luck!
