The Palm Pistol® is an ergonomically innovative single shot self-defense firearm chambered in .38 special that may be held in either hand without regard to orientation of the stock. It is an adaptive aid intended for seniors, disabled or others with grip limitations due to hand strength, manual dexterity or phalangeal amputions. The zero bore axis eliminates muzzle rise during firing and directs recoil forces directly into the palm. It can be fired using the thumb or combinations of other fingers.