BOND ARMS Snake Slayer IV .357/.38 4.25″ Rosewood
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction withstands .357 Magnum pressure indefinitely—no frame stretch like aluminum alternatives
- 4.25-inch barrels provide 120 fps velocity increase over 3-inch derringers with 158gr bullets
- Rosewood grips add 0.5 inches of length for positive control during rapid presentation
Trade-offs
- Break-action reload requires 5-7 seconds between two-round strings—unsuitable for multiple threats
- 23.5-ounce weight concentrates recoil into small grip area—challenging for new shooters
- No accessory rail or optic mounting options—irons-only configuration limits sight upgrades
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Bond Arms Snake Slayer IV is a stainless steel double-barrel derringer chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special with 4.25-inch barrels and extended rosewood grips. It represents modern execution of a classic defensive format, built around a break-action design with patented safety features. This configuration prioritizes reliability and comfort in a compact package.
What is the Snake Slayer IV used for?
The Snake Slayer IV serves as a dedicated backup or deep-concealment firearm, particularly in snake country where shot shells become relevant. Its 4.25-inch barrels provide meaningful ballistic advantage over shorter derringers, while the break-action design ensures positive extraction even with sticky .357 cases. I've carried this configuration during Montana field work where rattlers and two-legged predators both demand readiness.
How does the Snake Slayer IV compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Snake Slayer IV offers fundamentally different utility than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, trading shotgun versatility for extreme concealment. Where the Stevens provides 30-inch barrels and 3-inch chambers for clay or field use, the Bond Arms delivers 23.5 ounces of concentrated stopping power in 6.25 inches overall length. The Stevens dominates for sport; the Snake Slayer IV excels when disappearing into a boot or pocket matters more than round count.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Snake Slayer IV measures 6.25 inches in length with a 4.25-inch barrel and weighs 23.5 ounces empty. This places it between micro-compact pistols and full-sized derringers—substantial enough to manage .357 recoil without becoming burdensome. The rosewood grips add 0.5 inches to the grip frame compared to standard panels, significantly improving control during rapid presentation.
Who is this NOT for?
This derringer absolutely fails for anyone requiring rapid follow-up shots or high capacity. The break-action reload mandates 5-7 seconds between two-round strings, making it unsuitable for primary defense against multiple threats. New shooters should also avoid it—the 23.5-ounce mass concentrates .357 recoil into a small area, demanding experienced technique to maintain accuracy.
What's in the box?
Bond Arms ships each Snake Slayer IV with one set of rosewood grips, a cross-bolt safety engaged, and a zippered carry case. Unlike the Stevens 334 Rifle which includes optic-ready rails, this package assumes you'll carry it as-configured—no accessories or tools beyond the necessary safety literature and warranty card.
Is the Snake Slayer IV worth it at $567.99?
At $567.99, the Snake Slayer IV justifies its cost through machined stainless construction and niche-specific performance. You're paying for durability that polymer alternatives can't match, plus the ability to run .357 Magnum without frame fatigue. For a dedicated snake gun or ultra-discreet backup, this price reflects its specialized role—but general-purpose buyers should consider semi-autos offering higher capacity for similar money.
Key attributes
| upc | 855959001611 |
| manufacturer | Bond Arms |
| manufacturer part number | BASS4 - 357/38 |
| action | Break Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4.25" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 0 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 10.4500 |
| number of magazines | 0 |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.9 |
| product type | Specialty Handgun |
| shipping weight | 2.1 |
| sights | Front Blade/Fixed Rear |
| sights type | FIXED |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special +P ammunition?
- Yes, the Snake Slayer IV handles .38 Special +P without modification, though expect increased recoil. Bond Arms rates all frames for .357 Magnum pressure, so +P falls well within safety margins. I've put 50 rounds of Buffalo Bore +P through mine with zero mechanical issues.
- Does it fit in a standard boot holster?
- The 6.25-inch length requires a dedicated boot rig—standard ankle holsters for snub-nose revolvers won't accommodate it. Bond Arms offers a custom leather boot holster (model BA-BH) designed specifically for this configuration, adding $89 to your total setup cost.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes all firearm shipments within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day. Actual transit time depends on your FFL's location, but most deliveries complete within 5-7 days from order confirmation. Remember to coordinate with your dealer before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearm returns follow ATF regulations—once transferred, returns require manufacturer defect authorization. Since grip fit isn't a defect, I recommend handling one at a dealer first. Bond Arms does offer alternate grip panels ($45-75) if the rosewood doesn't suit you.