The invention features improved fluid deflection techniques for a pendent-type fire-protection sprinkler head. A first deflecting surface facing generally upward is positioned in the path of fluid emerging from the body of the sprinkler and includes a portion spaced to circumferentially redistribute the fluid to improve uniformity of distribution and deflect at least some of the fluid generally outward. A second deflecting surface positioned radially outward and away from the first deflecting surface receives and controls the distribution of a portion of the outwardly moving water from the first surface; the path of emerging fluid from the sprinkler head body to the first deflector surface extends through an interior opening in the second deflector surface; and the second surface is separated from the first surface by a circumferentially unobstructed region so that the circumferential distribution of the fluid leaving the first surface is not divided as it moves between the first and second surfaces. The dependent structure that supports the first deflecting surface is such that it causes a disturbance in the flow before the flow reaches the first deflecting surface and the first deflecting surface is effective in redistributing the fluid to reduce the uneveness in circumferential distribution which is a result of the disturbance.