Derringers are the original concealed-carry sidearm: Tiny, single- or double-shot handguns have ridden in American waistcoats, boots and ladies' hand muffs for hundreds of years. Their simple, classic design and small size—many are smaller than a woman's hand—make the derringer a solid self-defense platform for those willing to accept that these guns aren't the most comfortable to shoot. However, most people don't really think of them as home-defense guns for those same reasons ... but the good folks at Bond Arms suggest that we give them another look, especially if we've already selected a derringer for our everyday carry (EDC) gun.
First, consider this: A Bond Arms derringer is small enough to fit into your robe pocket, so it can be by your side even when you are relaxing at home. After all, the derringer in your pocket is better than the shotgun in your basement when someone's breaking into your home. It also means that you'll need less training to ensure proficiency under extreme stress situations. After all, you're not going from the handgun to the long gun, and then back, depending on whether you're at home or out and about.
Then there's the ease-of-use factor. Bond Arms derringers' break-action design is easy to load, shoot, and reload; it doesn't jam like more complicated semi-automatic and pump-action firearms. The simplicity of derringer design means that pulling the the trigger will fire the gun every time.
Another concern that home defenders need to consider is "overpenetration," or the potential for a cartridge to go through multiple walls, endangering inhabitants. Pistol cartridges like the ones derringers shoot are far less prone to overpenetration than a rifle round (in general). With Bond Arms' .45LC/.410 bore chambering, you can go one further and load the derringer with birdshot, which is even safer for your family (but not for the attacker). 
Finally, despite their short barrels, Bond Arms' pistols are accurate and deliver precise shots at home defense distances. (Check out this review from our friends at American Rifleman!) The company chambers barrels in powerful cartridges including 10 mm, .45ACP, .357 Mag, 9 mm Luger, .45LC/410 bore shells and many more. Ammo makers load an assortment of self-defense projectiles for these cartridges. Want to know more? BondArms.com
