In the immediate aftermath of the American Civil War, a new civilian-friendly firearm emerged from Remington. Dubbed the Model 95, this was a two-shot single-action pistol that fired rimfire, blackpowder .41-caliber rounds. With about 70 years in production and over 150,000 manufactured, it represents one of Remington's all-time most popular firearms.
" Technically, it's called the Remington Model 95, but it's been known as the 'Elliot Pistol' or the 'Double Derringer,' since its inception in 1866. And it's probably one of the pistols that when you say the word 'derringer,' this is the pistol that comes to mind," NRA Museum Director Phil Schreier said. "I hate to overuse the word, but it's an iconic pistol of the cowboy and Old West era."
Small single-shot pistols that shot blackpowder rounds had been around for quite some time prior to the manufacture of the Model 95, but this was among the first that offered the user a second round. Carried for personal protection by Old West madams, barkeeps, and citizens, the Model 95 delivered a hefty thump downrange ... as well as to the shooter. In this great video from our friends at American Rifleman, you'll learn all about why this little "pocket pistol" was so popular for so long.
