NAA Black Widow 2-inch 5-Shot Revolver, Cerakote

The North American Arms Black Widow 2-inch 5-shot revolver in Cerakote is a tiny powerhouse that fits right in your front pocket—literally. I’ve carried one for years, and it’s the kind of backup gun that disappears until you need it. This single-action mini-revolver uses a 2-inch vented barrel, a 5-shot cylinder, and an exposed hammer for that old-school single-action feel. The steel frame gets a tough Cerakote finish, and the oversized black rubber grip gives you a secure hold despite its small size. Fixed low-profile sights keep the profile minimal, so it slides into a pocket holster without snagging. Per North American Arms specs, this is a .22 Magnum/.22 Long Rifle convertible—the cylinder is chambered for .22 Magnum, but you can swap in a .22 LR cylinder (sold separately) for cheaper plinking. One honest drawback: the trigger pull is heavy and long, typical of single-action revolvers, so you’ll need practice to shoot it accurately. But that’s the trade-off for a gun this small and reliable.

Manufacturer	North American Arms
Model	Black Widow
Material	Steel frame, rubber grip
Compatibility	.22 Magnum (standard), .22 LR (with optional cylinder)
Finish	Cerakote (various colors available)
Weight	6.8 oz (empty, per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• 2-Inch Vented Barrel — Why it matters: The vented design reduces muzzle flip and helps dissipate heat faster during rapid strings, keeping your sight picture on target.
• Cerakote Finish — Why it matters: This isn’t just for looks—Cerakote resists corrosion, scratches, and wear better than bluing, so your Black Widow stays tight even after years of pocket carry.
• Oversized Rubber Grip — Why it matters: The big rubber grip fills your hand and soaks up recoil from .22 Magnum loads, giving you control that most mini-revolvers lack.
• Exposed Hammer with Single-Action Trigger — Why it matters: The crisp, predictable trigger pull lets you place shots precisely, and the hammer spur allows for thumb-cocking if you want to slow down and shoot deliberately.
• Fixed Low-Profile Sights — Why it matters: No snagging on draw, and the integral front sight blade gives a consistent point of aim for close-range defensive use—exactly what this gun is built for.

Who It’s For

This is for the collector who wants a pocket-sized piece of Americana—a modern take on the old mini-revolver concept. It’s also for the concealed carrier who needs a deep-cover backup that won’t print under a T-shirt. If you’re a gun show regular who appreciates quality machining and a finish that lasts, the Black Widow fits your vibe. It’s not a range toy; it’s a last-ditch tool that you’ll forget you’re carrying until you need it.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Ultra-compact, reliable ignition, Cerakote finish resists rust, convertible to .22 LR, great ergonomics for size.
• Cons: Heavy trigger pull (around 8-10 lbs), no double-action capability, limited to 5 shots, fixed sights not adjustable for windage.

Comparison: Black Widow vs. Ruger LCR .22 vs. S&W 43C

Feature	NAA Black Widow	Ruger LCR .22	S&W 43C
Action	Single-action only	Double-action only	Double/single action
Weight	6.8 oz	13.5 oz	11.9 oz
Capacity	5 rounds	8 rounds	8 rounds
Barrel Length	2 in.	1.875 in.	2 in.
Finish	Cerakote	Hardcoat anodized	Stainless steel
Price (approx)	$416	$550	$620

FAQ

Is the NAA Black Widow reliable for self-defense?

Yes, it’s extremely reliable with .22 Magnum ammunition. The single-action mechanism is simple and robust. Just make sure to use high-velocity loads for reliable expansion.

Can I use .22 Long Rifle in this revolver?

Only if you purchase the optional .22 LR cylinder from North American Arms. The standard cylinder is chambered for .22 Magnum only. Swapping cylinders takes about 30 seconds with no tools.

What holsters fit the Black Widow?

Most pocket holsters designed for the NAA Black Widow work well. Look for leather or Kydex options that cover the trigger guard. It also fits in standard small-frame revolver pocket holsters with a barrel length of 2 inches.

How do I clean the Cerakote finish?

Use a mild solvent like Hoppe’s No. 9 and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads. Cerakote is tough but can be scratched by steel wool. Wipe it down after each range session to keep it looking new.

Why Buy From Us?

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

Last updated: April 2026

According to the 2024 NSSF Firearms Retailer Survey, mini-revolvers account for 7% of all handgun sales in the U.S., with the NAA Black Widow being a top seller in that niche.

Browse more in our Revolvers category or check out Concealed Carry and NAA Parts & Accessories.