Doctor gun
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A doctor gun (sometimes abbreviated to Dr. gun) is an American slang term for any small, inexpensive firearm firing a small-caliber cartridge, usually of .22 Long Rifle caliber. In general use, it is not considered a pejorative term. These firearms are often considered "throwaway guns", suitable for one-time use only, often with reference to the Mafia's methods of execution of individuals.
The name is given because in its typical small-caliber form, a doctor gun is considered effective only if used like a medical doctor's examination tool and physically inserted into a body orifice (nostril, ear, etc.) of the victim before being fired.
The term is more common on the East Coast and Southern United States, and is rarely used in the Midwest or West Coast.
Similar terms include "Saturday night special" or "junk gun" (both pejorative), mousegun, and pocket pistol. A doctor gun is typically much less expensive and of lesser quality than a mousegun. Many "Saturday Night Specials" are available in .380 ACP or 9 mm caliber; only those in .22LR or .25 ACP, are usually considered to be doctor guns.
