BTJ DA .38 Special Over/Under DAO Pistol, 3-inch Stainless Dual Barrels, Hamden CT (1980s)
This Connecticut-made BTJ DA in .38 Special is a scarce over/under, double-action-only pistol from the mid-1980s. Built with a 3-inch stainless steel dual-barrel cluster and a hammerless internal action, it fires sequentially from two barrels. Production in .38 Special was limited to roughly 7,800 units, making this an appealing piece for collectors seeking a compact, American-made example with direct lineage to the High Standard DAO derringer.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are markings from previous handling and use. Please refer to the pictures for close detail.
What's Included
- Brown suede leather pocket holster
The BTJ DA is a tip-down break-action design with an over/under dual-barrel cluster measuring 3 inches. A left-side latch releases the action for loading and unloading, and a manual transverse extractor assists with case removal. The pistol fires sequentially from its two barrels and has a capacity of two rounds.
This model uses a double-action-only, hammerless (internal) mechanism with a smooth trigger pull. A frame-mounted sliding thumb safety provides a positive on/off control on the frame. Sights are integral, with a top trough for alignment and an integral front step and rear trough.
Construction details include stainless steel barrels and a matte stainless-colored frame finish paired with checkered wood grip panels. The overall configuration is compact and straightforward, emphasizing durable materials and simple operation.
Marked "BTJ HAMDEN, CT. U.S.A.", this pistol was produced in the United States during the 1980s. Production in .38 Special was done in small numbers (around 7,800), and the design descends from the High Standard DAO derringer, preceding the later American Derringer DA38 line—context that adds clear historical interest for collectors.