founded in 1980 – 1991
Waco, Texas
- 1980 founded by Robert A. Saunders and Elizabeth Saunders
- 1989 introduced the “Lady Derringer”
- 1990 obtained the rights to the High Standard Derringer
- 1990 COP 357 Derringer
- 1990 MINI COP .22 Magnum
- 1991 Stainless Steel Pen Pistol Model 2 ( for R. J. Braverman)
About American Derringer
American Derringer Corporation is a Waco, Texas, maker of over-and-under derringers founded in 1980 by Robert A. Saunders and Elizabeth Saunders. Its core product, the Model 1, is based on the classic Remington Model 95 double-barrel derringer and has been offered in more than 60 chamberings, from .22 rimfire to large handgun and rifle cartridges. The company built its reputation on solid stainless steel construction and on keeping a nineteenth-century design relevant as a modern backup and deep-concealment gun.
In 1989 the company introduced its Lady Derringer line, with Elizabeth Saunders serving as the public face of the brand in advertising, a campaign credited with a significant rise in sales and an early example of firearms marketing aimed at women. In 1990 American Derringer acquired the rights to the High Standard double-action derringer, producing it as the DS22 and DA38, and introduced the four-barrel COP .357 and the smaller MINI COP in .22 Magnum, both later discontinued. The company also marketed the Model 2 stainless steel pen pistol designed by Bob Braverman. Public sources list American Derringer as a private company still headquartered in Waco.
Key Facts
- 1980: Founded in Waco, Texas, by Robert A. and Elizabeth Saunders
- 1989: Introduced the Lady Derringer line
- 1990: Acquired rights to the High Standard derringer design
- 1990: Introduced the four-barrel COP .357 and the MINI COP .22 Magnum
- Early 1990s: Marketed the Model 2 Pen Pistol designed by Bob Braverman
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Sources
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