The Diamondback Sidekick 9-Round Revolver 5.5″ Silver/Black is a carry-friendly rimfire wheelgun that splits the difference between a pocket pistol and a trail gun. This double/single-action nine-shooter runs on .22 LR or .22 WMR with the included two-cylinder setup, giving you a full reload in the same footprint as a five-shot J-frame. The 5.5-inch barrel and Cerakote two-tone finish keep it balanced on the belt, while the laminate grips and alloy frame tame muzzle flip without adding bulk. For EDC guys who want a revolver that holds more than six and doesn’t weigh you down, this is a solid pick.
| Manufacturer | Diamondback |
|---|---|
| Model | Sidekick |
| Material | Alloy frame, steel barrel and cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .22 LR / .22 WMR (interchangeable cylinders) |
| Finish | Cerakote silver/black two-tone |
| Weight | Approx. 31 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Interchangeable 9-Round Cylinders – WHY IT MATTERS: Swap between .22 LR for cheap range days and .22 WMR for small-game hunting or defense loads, all without tools. That’s 18 rounds of rimfire on your belt if you carry a spare cylinder.
- 5.5-Inch Barrel with Fixed Sights – WHY IT MATTERS: The longer sight radius gives you a natural point of aim at 15–25 yards, and fixed sights mean nothing snags during a draw. It’s a practical setup for a field revolver that still fits an OWB holster.
- Laminate Wood Grips – WHY IT MATTERS: They fill the hand without being fat, and the texture stays tacky even with sweaty palms. No rubber stickiness, no slip — just a solid purchase for repeat shots.
- Alloy Frame with Cerakote Finish – WHY IT MATTERS: Keeps the weight down for all-day carry, and the Cerakote resists rust and holster wear better than blued steel. The silver/black two-tone also hides pocket lint and range grime.
- Double/Single-Action Trigger – WHY IT MATTERS: DA for a controlled first shot or fast follow-ups, SA for precision when you’re plinking or hunting. It gives you two trigger personalities in one gun.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits the EDC guy who wants a rimfire backup that holds more than a J-frame. It’s also for the hiker or trapper who needs a lightweight sidearm for snakes, rabbits, or sign-cutting. If you train with .22 to save money but still want a revolver that feels like a centerfire, the Sidekick delivers.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: 9-round capacity in a compact revolver, dual-cylinder versatility, alloy frame for easy carry, laminate grips for low maintenance, affordable price point.
- Cons: The fixed sights are basic — no windage or elevation adjustment, so you’ll need to hold over at longer ranges. Also, the cylinder gap is tighter than some other rimfire revolvers, so keep it clean to avoid binding.
Comparison: Diamondback Sidekick vs. Zev Technologies OZ9 vs. Ruger Wrangler
| Feature | Diamondback Sidekick | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Ruger Wrangler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 9 rounds (.22 LR) | 17+1 (9mm) | 6 rounds (.22 LR) |
| Action | Double/Single | Striker-fired | Single-action only |
| Weight | ~31 oz | ~24 oz | ~30 oz |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches | 4.49 inches | 4.62 inches |
| Price | $377 | $1,100+ | $250 |
| Best For | EDC / field work | Competition / duty | Plinking / budget |
FAQ
Does the Diamondback Sidekick come with both cylinders?
Yes — it ships with a .22 LR cylinder and a .22 WMR cylinder. Both are pre-fitted and drop in without tools. Just open the loading gate, push the cylinder pin, and swap.
Is the Sidekick legal to carry in all states?
Because it’s a rimfire revolver with a 5.5-inch barrel, it meets federal legal requirements for concealed carry in most states. But check your local laws — some states have restrictions on .22 WMR ammunition or magazine capacity (though revolver cylinders aren’t typically counted as detachable magazines).
Can I mount a red dot on the Sidekick?
No — the fixed sights are milled into the barrel and frame, and there’s no rail or optic cut. This is a traditional iron-sight revolver. If you want a dot, you’ll need to have a gunsmith machine a mount.
How does the trigger pull compare to a Ruger Wrangler?
The Sidekick has a double-action pull around 8–10 lbs (smooth but heavy) and a single-action pull around 3–4 lbs (crisp). The Ruger Wrangler is single-action only at about 4 lbs. So the Sidekick gives you more options but a heavier DA stroke.
What holsters fit the Diamondback Sidekick?
Most generic revolver holsters for a 5.5-inch barrel and 0.9-inch cylinder width work. Brands like DeSantis, Galco, and Simply Rugged offer leather and Kydex options. Check that the holster is wide enough for the cylinder — the Sidekick’s cylinder diameter is about 1.4 inches.
Buy with Confidence
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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