Rohm Mod. 17 "Mississippi Derringer" .38 Special, Over/Under 2-Shot, 3-Inch Barrels, Bright Plated Finish, Fluted Barrel Assembly (Germany)
This German-made Rohm Mod. 17 "Mississippi Derringer" stands out as an over/under .38 Special with distinctive longitudinal flutes on its barrel assembly and a bright plated finish. Its two 3-inch barrels, break-open design with a forward hinge, and single-action operation make it a recognizable example of this compact derringer pattern.
The gun features an exposed hammer with a textured spur, a single trigger, and a fixed integral front blade sight. Factory roll marks include "CAL 38 SPECIAL" on the right barrel, "MADE IN GERMANY" on the left, and "Mississippi Derringer" on the top rib, highlighting its import branding and origin.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There is no locking mechanism to keep the barrel assembly in battery, so it does not lock closed. It cannot be safely fired in its current state. The hammer is able to cock and release. One grip panel is missing, with only the right-side panel present. Scratches and blemishes are visible on the exterior.
The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Right-side synthetic ivory-tone grip panel with molded checkering (installed)
This Mod. 17 uses an over/under two-barrel layout with a forward (muzzle-end) hinge. The break-open action facilitates loading two .38 Special cartridges and reflects the compact derringer format associated with this model.
The bright plated (nickel/chrome appearance) finish pairs with a fluted barrel assembly that runs longitudinally along both barrels, giving the upper unit a distinctive look. The frame and barrels carry a uniform plated appearance.
Operation is single-action only with a single trigger. The exposed hammer has a textured spur for positive thumb purchase. A small serrated sliding control is located on the left side of the frame behind the breech.
Sighting is straightforward, with an integral fixed front blade and no separate rear sight. Cream-colored synthetic grip panels with molded checkering were fitted from the factory.
Markings include "CAL 38 SPECIAL" on the right barrel, "MADE IN GERMANY" on the left, and "Mississippi Derringer" roll-marked on the top rib, confirming chambering, origin, and importer branding.