The name "Welrod" comes from the custom of naming all clandestine equipment devised at Station IX in Welwyn Garden City starting with "Wel", e.g., "Welbike", "Welman". A document produced towards the end of World War II ensured that the right people were properly credited for their inventions at Station IX. This document reveals that the inventor of the Welrod was Major Hugh Reeves. He was also responsible for other important designs, including the sleeve gun, which was similar to the Welrod, though single shot and made to conceal up a sleeve.