NAA Sidewinder 22 WMR 2.5″ Stainless 5rd Revolver

The NAA Sidewinder 22 WMR 2.5″ Stainless 5rd Revolver is the pocket powerhouse every collector needs to see. North American Arms took their proven mini-revolver platform and grafted on a swing-out cylinder — a first for the breed. You get the same classic single-action feel, but reloads go from fiddly pin-pushing to a quick push of the cylinder release. This .22 Magnum 5-shot packs serious pop into a stainless frame that disappears in a pocket or boot. It’s the evolution of the belly gun, and it’s ready to ride with you.

Manufacturer	North American Arms
Model	Sidewinder
Material	Stainless steel (barrel & frame)
Compatibility	.22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR)
Finish	Satin stainless steel
Weight	4.9 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Swing-Out Cylinder: Why it matters — no more fumbling with a base pin. Press the release, the cylinder swings left, and you load or unload in seconds. It’s the biggest upgrade to NAA’s mini-revolver line in decades.
• 2.5″ Stainless Barrel: Why it matters — that extra half-inch over the standard 1-5/8″ barrel gives you a real sight radius and bumps velocity. You get full .22 WMR performance from a package that still hides in a jeans watch pocket.
• Rosewood Bird’s-Head Grip: Why it matters — the bird’s-head shape lets your hand wrap naturally for control, and the rosewood adds a touch of class to a working gun. It’s as comfortable as it is handsome.
• Exposed Hammer: Why it matters — single-action means a light, crisp trigger pull every time. You cock the hammer manually, so there’s no long DA stack. It’s the same system that’s worked for over a century.
• 5-Round Capacity: Why it matters — five rounds of .22 Magnum is a serious deterrent. With the right ammo, you’re pushing 40-grain bullets at 1,400+ fps out of this barrel. That’s more than enough for close-range defense.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who appreciates mechanical innovation in a timeless format. It’s also for the shooter who wants a deep-cover backup that won’t snag or print. If you haunt gun shows looking for the oddball that actually works, the Sidewinder is your next find. It fits the guy who already owns an NAA Mini but wants the faster reload. It fits the woman who needs a purse gun that won’t malfunction. It fits anyone who trusts steel and wheelguns over plastic and strikers.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Swing-out cylinder is a genuine improvement — reloads are 3x faster than the original Mini.
• Pro: Stainless construction means no rust worries, even if you carry it in a sweaty pocket all summer.
• Con: The sights are fixed and minimal — a tiny front blade and a groove rear. You’ll want to practice to find your hold at 10+ yards.
• Con: Single-action only means you must manually cock the hammer for each shot. Under extreme stress, that’s an extra step to remember.

Comparison: NAA Sidewinder vs. Ruger LCR 22 WMR vs. Smith & Wesson 351C

Feature	NAA Sidewinder	Ruger LCR 22 WMR	Smith & Wesson 351C
Action	Single-action only	Double-action only	Double-action only
Capacity	5 rounds	8 rounds	7 rounds
Weight	4.9 oz	13.5 oz	11.9 oz
Barrel Length	2.5″	1.875″	1.875″
Cylinder Release	Swing-out (left)	Swing-out (left)	Swing-out (left)
Price Point	$400	$550	$700

The Ruger and Smith are heavier, hold more rounds, and offer double-action. But the NAA Sidewinder is half the weight and a third smaller. If deep concealment is your priority, the Sidewinder wins. If you want a belt gun, go Ruger or S&W.

FAQ

Is the NAA Sidewinder safe to carry with a round under the hammer?

Yes. The Sidewinder uses a transfer bar safety system (per NAA specs). The hammer does not contact the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled fully to the rear. You can safely carry all five chambers loaded.

Can I use .22 Long Rifle in this revolver?

No. The cylinder is chambered specifically for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). Do not attempt to fire .22 LR. The case dimensions are different, and .22 LR can cause a dangerous pressure spike or case rupture in a .22 WMR chamber.

What holsters fit the NAA Sidewinder with the 2.5″ barrel?

Most NAA Mini holsters designed for the 2.5″ barrel will work. Look for pocket holsters, ankle rigs, or belt slides from DeSantis, Uncle Mike’s, or Simply Rugged. The swing-out cylinder does not affect holster fit — the cylinder is enclosed inside the frame.

How do I clean the Sidewinder’s cylinder after shooting?

Open the cylinder by pushing the thumb release on the left side of the frame. Swing the cylinder out. Use a .22 caliber bore brush and solvent on a rod, or a Boresnake. Wipe the cylinder face and chambers with a patch. Re-oil lightly.

Does the Sidewinder come with a spare cylinder for .22 LR?

No. NAA offers the Sidewinder only in .22 WMR. If you want a convertible model, look at the NAA Black Widow or the Earl — those come with an extra .22 LR cylinder. The Sidewinder is dedicated to .22 Magnum for maximum power.

Why Buy From Us

• ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✅ 30-day returns
• ✅ Secure checkout

Check out more wheelguns in our Revolvers collection, or see all North American Arms models. For pocket carry options, browse Compact Firearms.

Last updated: April 2026