California Arms Co 20ga "Defiance" Pistol-Shotgun

Published on November 9, 2018
Duration: 8:38

The California Arms Co. 'Defiance' is a rare 20-gauge pistol-shotgun from the late 1920s, produced in San Francisco. Unlike competitors, it was purpose-built with an all-metal construction, featuring a cast aluminum grip and a unique barrel release. Originally unregulated, it's now classified as a Short Barreled Shotgun (SBS) under the NFA.

Quick Summary

The California Arms Co. 'Defiance' is a rare 20-gauge side-by-side pistol-shotgun from the late 1920s, designed as an 'anti-bandit' weapon. It featured unique all-metal construction, a cast aluminum grip, and was marketed for both buckshot and tear gas. Today, it's classified as a Short Barreled Shotgun (SBS) under the NFA.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Defiance Pistol-Shotgun
  2. 01:08Marketing and Tear Gas Use
  3. 02:15Mechanical Design and Construction
  4. 03:33Firing Mechanism and Features
  5. 05:34Legal Status and Handling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California Arms Co. 'Defiance' pistol-shotgun?

The 'Defiance' is a rare, late-1920s 20-gauge side-by-side pistol-shotgun manufactured by California Arms Company in San Francisco. It was designed as an 'anti-bandit' weapon and is similar in concept to the Ithaca Auto & Burglar.

What made the Defiance pistol-shotgun unique in its marketing?

The Defiance was uniquely marketed for use with both buckshot and tear gas cartridges. California Arms Co. collaborated with Lake Erie Chemical Company to develop specific 20-gauge tear gas rounds for this firearm.

How was the Defiance pistol-shotgun mechanically different from its contemporaries?

Unlike firearms like the Ithaca Auto & Burglar which used modified shotgun parts, the Defiance was purpose-built with an all-metal construction, featuring a solid cast aluminum grip and a unique button for barrel release.

What is the current legal status of the Defiance pistol-shotgun?

Produced before the National Firearms Act of 1934, the Defiance is now classified as a Short Barreled Shotgun (SBS) under the NFA and requires proper registration.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →