Derringers are likely the most misunderstood guns of all
They are like a long bladed knife when used to preserve life and as a fun gun they're a blast to shoot!
The barrels a er almost never centered the same but at 5 ft or less it matters little. One needs to simply shoot towards C/M and run!
Lifesavers is all they ever will be.
The .22 RF at least equals the old .44 RF in energy anms of preformanced out penetrates it too. The larger CF caliners above .25 are near equal to a Like caliber revolver in preformance. Mlly .38 Cobra has barrels equal to my Chief and is near or better because of the lack of a barrel gap.
They are small and hard to shoot the Chief is more accurate for at least that reason...
However due to their historical appeal, TV and Movie coverage they remain high on the list of highly concealable weapons. The fantis of Paladin and Bat Nast ersonally blasting the bad guys from a hideout gun also rates high in folks minds!
Truth be told my .38 Cobra weighs just about as much as my Chief and is nearly the same size! Plus the Chief holds more ammo.
Nevertheless my little .22 RF Davis is so small that carrying it in a pocket dosen't bog ya down and is nearly invisible in a pocket
The security of having at least 2 shots to fend off snakes and feral dogs is comforting.
One needs understand the mechanics of shooting a Derringer though! It's definitely a 2 handed gun. Cocking due to heavy hammer Springs and tight Safety's take both hands to operate.
Firing even a .38 takes both hands to control recoil. In most cases reloading is out of the question too.
The best way to use a Derringer is not to show it till ready to shoot! ,
The benefit of the gun is surprise and a decently placed shot, two if you get the chance.
If you want a play Derringer get a .22 because of the versatility of ammo.
If you'really considering Social Work, buy a 9mm or 38
Larger calibers are totally uncontrolable, period!
I own a .22 and a
38 and shoot both frequentlly, at least if called upon I am familiar with them
I shoot only solid bullets NO shot because it spreads top quickly and has no power. A solid will at least roll a snake over and stun it with a near miss,affording a second try.
. For 2 legged Vermont solids are the only option!
Yep Derringers do have a place but you need to know their limitations.
I'll always have at least one in my battery.
Dave