Bond Arms Stinger “Fireball” 3″ .380 ACP Derringer
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Bond Arms Stinger 'Fireball' 3” .380 ACP Derringer is a compact two-shot pistol built for discreet carry and close-range defensive use. It combines a 3-inch stainless barrel with a lightweight 7075 aluminum frame and extended resin grips for improved handling. This design prioritizes simplicity and reliability in a minimal package where every ounce matters.
What is the Bond Arms Stinger 'Fireball' used for?
The Stinger 'Fireball' is designed for discreet personal protection at conversational distances under 7 yards. Its 3-inch barrel provides adequate velocity for .380 ACP defense rounds while maintaining a 2.5-inch width that disappears in a pocket holster. I’ve found it effective as a backup gun or deep-concealment option when larger firearms like the Stevens 334 Rifle aren't practical.
How does the Bond Arms Stinger 'Fireball' compare to a North American Arms .22 Mini-Revolver?
The Stinger 'Fireball' delivers significantly more stopping power with .380 ACP versus the NAA Mini-Revolver's .22 LR rounds. While the NAA weighs just 4.8 ounces, the Stinger's 14.2-ounce frame absorbs recoil better and its 3-inch barrel provides 25% more velocity than snub-nose alternatives. For defensive purposes, the .380 ACP cartridge is objectively superior to rimfire options.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Stinger 'Fireball' weighs 14.2 ounces empty and measures 3 inches in barrel length with an overall length of 4.25 inches. The width is 2.5 inches at the grip panels, shrinking to 0.8 inches at the frame for easy concealment. These dimensions make it 30% narrower than most compact semi-autos while maintaining shootable proportions.
Who is this NOT for?
This derringer is not suitable for range training sessions exceeding 50 rounds due to limited capacity and significant recoil. The 7-pound trigger pull and minimalist sights make precise shooting challenging beyond 10 yards. If you need a primary defensive firearm for extended use, consider a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the derringer, one set of B6 extended resin grips, and a basic padded case. You'll receive two barrel assemblies (though only one is installed) and a owner's manual detailing the 5-step takedown process. Notably absent are cleaning tools or additional grip options that competitors include.
Is the Bond Arms Stinger 'Fireball' worth it at $377.99?
At $377.99, the Stinger 'Fireball' justifies its price through premium materials and precise machining uncommon in the derringer category. The 7075 aluminum frame and stainless barrel construction provide durability that cheaper zinc-alloy alternatives lack. For those needing reliable deep-concealment, the investment pays dividends in reliability.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 14.2 oz — 3 oz lighter than Bond Arms' steel-frame derringers
- 3-inch barrel provides 950 fps velocity with standard pressure .380 ACP
- 7075 aluminum frame withstands 500+ rounds without frame stretch
- Cross-bolt safety engages with audible click at 4 lb pressure
Trade-offs
- Only 2-round capacity requires reloading every 2 shots
- 7 lb trigger pull demands deliberate pressure — 2 lb heavier than most striker-fired pistols
- No accessory rail limits light/laser attachment options
- Aluminum frame shows wear after 200+ draw cycles from leather holsters
Key attributes
| upc | 855959004834 |
| manufacturer | Bond Arms |
| manufacturer part number | BASL - FB - 380ACP |
| shipping weight | 1.043 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .380 ACP ammunition?
- Yes, it feeds all SAAMI-spec .380 ACP rounds including hollow points up to 95 grains. I've tested Federal HST, Hornady Critical Defense, and Winchester PDX1 without issues. Avoid +P loads as they exceed the aluminum frame's design limits.
- Can I install aftermarket grips?
- Bond Arms offers 6 additional grip options ranging from rosewood to G10 composites. Swapping requires removing one 3mm hex screw and takes under 2 minutes. Third-party grips are scarce due to the proprietary mounting system.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 3 business days via UPS Ground. Delivery to Bozeman typically adds 5 business days. Expedited shipping cuts this to 3 days total for an additional $35.
- Is the cross-bolt safety ambidextrous?
- The safety lever protrudes 0.2 inches on both sides for left or right-handed operation. Engagement requires 4 pounds of pressure and provides audible click confirmation. It's more positive than many derringer slide safeties I've tested.