Guns I Probably Shouldn’t Want, But Do: Bond Arms Snake Slayer

I’m also going to need a long duster jacket, wide-brimmed hat, and a sexy facial scar.

Shut up and take my money.

Once upon a time, if you wanted to carry a concealed handgun, you carried a derringer. Simply designed with either a single or double barrel, these itty-bitty one- or two-shot guns were carried by men and women alike as protection against danger that walked on four legs, two legs, or–in today’s case in point–none. Although the world of concealed carry is now dominated by small revolvers and even smaller semi-autos, the old-school cool of the derringer persists. And that’s part of why, despite the fact that I already have more concealable handguns than I need, I still want the Bond Arms Snake Slayer.

The other reason I want this gun is that, err, I’m a little “ambivalent” on the subject of snakes. Referring to a gun, ammo load, or brand of shovel as a “snake slayer” is a really good way to get me to sit up and take notice. Now that I’ve taken notice, however, I’m warming to the idea of this little two-shot derringer chambered for both .357 Mag. and .38 Special…or even .45 Colt/.410.  On the one hand, I can’t help but wince at the thought of the recoil; on the other hand, how cool would that thing look in my hand? It features a stainless-steel double barrel and frame, as well as a patented rebounding and locking hammer, which jumps back and locks to safety after firing. An extended rosewood grip with the Snake Slayer emblem etched into the surface, along with unique snakeskin-patterned checkering will surely have people admiring me…er, my gun.

For those shooters who like options without too much extra expense, the barrels are easily swapped out with additional barrels available from Bond Arms, including one in .22 caliber. Regardless, all Snake Slayers feature a cross-bolt safety, retracting firing pins, a full trigger guard, and a spring-loaded cammed-locking lever.

The barrel is 3.5 inches long topped with a front blade and fixed rear sights and can accommodate casings and shells from 2.5 inches long up to 3 inches long. The overall length of the gun is 5.5 inches, and the overall weight is 22 ounces. The Snake Slayer retails for $603. Click here for more information.