Collectible Remington .41 RF Black Powder “Vest Pocket” Deringer Pistol

Remington Pistol – Vest Pocket Pistol

Manufacture: 1865–1888 – Caliber: .41 Rimfire – Feature: Original condition

History

Designed primarily for urban use, the elegant and lightweight Remington Pocket Pistol—also known as the "Handle Deringer"—was manufactured between 1865 and 1888, with a total production run of approximately 15,000 units across all calibers (.30, .32, and .41 Rimfire). Simple to operate, it is loaded by cocking the hammer and then tilting up the top plate. The system offers a safety advantage: the hammer cannot be fired while the loading plate is open. The .41 Rimfire version was the most widely produced model, accounting for about 14,000 units, while the .30 and .32 calibers made up the remainder of production.

Our Model

This elegant Remington Vest Pocket in .41 RF retains a fine original appearance, featuring a light tone consistent with a period silver finish. The metal parts show some signs of age but no significant corrosion. The markings, though finely engraved on the top of the frame, remain clearly visible. Cocking and opening operate smoothly, and the firing action is crisp. The 3 ¾-inch barrel, chambered in .41 Rimfire, has a grey bore with distinct rifling and signs of use consistent with its age, yet it remains fully functional. The original wooden grips are well-preserved and perfectly fitted.

A typical post-Civil War American pocket pistol with understated charm, which would make a natural addition to a collection of antique firearms.

The weapon comes with its official classification certificate (Category D), issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.