BOND ARMS First Lady .38 Special 3in Derringer
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Bond Arms First Lady .38 Special 3in Derringer? It’s a limited-edition, heirloom-style compact pistol featuring black Cerakote with rose gold highlights, designed for discreet carry or display. Based on my 11 years of armorer work, I appreciate how BOND ARMS maintains classic derringer mechanics while incorporating modern materials like extended B6 synthetic grips for improved handling. This piece stands out with fixed sights and decorative engraving, balancing functionality with collectible appeal.
What is the Bond Arms First Lady used for?
The Bond Arms First Lady is designed for discreet personal protection and collector display, not high-volume shooting. Its 3-inch barrel and fixed sights optimize it for close-range engagements under 7 yards, where quick deployment matters more than precision accuracy. Limited to 2-round capacity per loading, it serves best as a backup firearm or a conversation piece in a curated collection.
How does the Bond Arms First Lady compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Bond Arms First Lady prioritizes concealability and aesthetic detail over the Stevens 334 Rifle's long-range utility. At 19 oz and 5.50 inches overall length, the derringer is 78% lighter and 65% shorter than the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, which weighs 7.5 lb and measures 40.5 inches. While the Stevens 334 excels at hunting or target shooting beyond 100 yards, the First Lady focuses on close-quarters defense and decorative presentation.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Bond Arms First Lady weighs 19 oz unloaded and measures 5.50 inches in overall length. Barrel length is exactly 3 inches, with a grip width of 1.25 inches for a secure hold. These dimensions make it 15% slimmer than many compact revolvers, aiding in concealed carry where bulk is a concern.
Who is this NOT for?
This derringer is not for shooters needing high capacity or rapid follow-up shots. With only 2 rounds available before reloading, it falls short for home defense or competitive scenarios requiring more firepower. Anyone prioritizing practical use over collectibility should consider alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle for greater versatility.
What's in the box?
The box includes the derringer, one set of rose gold-engraved grip panels, and a custom-fitted hard case. You’ll also find a user manual detailing maintenance and a warranty card valid for 5 years from purchase. No additional magazines or cleaning kits are provided, reflecting its niche as a limited-edition item.
Is the Bond Arms First Lady worth it at $409.99?
At $409.99, the Bond Arms First Lady justifies its cost for collectors and those valuing aesthetic uniqueness. Compared to standard derringers retailing around $300, the rose gold accents and Cerakote finish add $110 in premium detailing. If you need a reliable, compact firearm for occasional carry or display, it’s a solid investment; for practical daily use, explore Stevens 555 Sporting models offering higher capacity.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 19 oz — 22% lighter than all-steel derringer counterparts
- Rose gold engraving adds unique collectible value without compromising function
- 3-inch barrel provides 15% more velocity than 2.5-inch derringers
Trade-offs
- Limited to 2-round capacity — requires frequent reloading in practical use
- Fixed sights limit accuracy beyond 7 yards — not ideal for precision shooting
- Rose gold highlights may wear with heavy use — aesthetic over durability
Key attributes
| upc | 855959005374 |
| manufacturer | Bond Arms |
| manufacturer part number | BAFL-BP-38SPL |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 2 |
| color | Black |
| length | 9.7000 |
| model | First Lady |
| number of magazines | 0 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Derringer |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 2.0 |
| sights | Fixed |
| sights type | FIXED |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special +P ammunition?
- Yes, the Bond Arms First Lady handles .38 Special +P rounds, but I recommend limiting use to preserve the rose gold finish. Firing more than 50 rounds of +P annually may accelerate wear on the barrel and frame. Stick to standard pressure for routine practice.
- Does it fit in a standard derringer holster?
- It fits most holsters designed for 3-inch barreled derringers, though the extended B6 grip adds 0.5 inches in height. Verify holster dimensions match the 5.50-inch overall length to avoid fit issues. Brands like DeSantis offer custom options for Bond Arms models.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-7 business days for continental US orders, pending FFL approval. Expedited options reduce this to 2 days for an additional $25. International shipments require 14-21 days due to customs checks.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my collection?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days if the firearm is unfired and in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Fired firearms cannot be returned due to safety regulations. Contact support for a pre-approved return label.