The NAA The Wasp .22 WMR Mini-Revolver — 5-Round Stainless is a pocket-sized powerhouse that bridges the gap between a backup gun and a collector’s curiosity. Chambered for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, this single-action five-shooter packs serious punch in a frame that disappears into a jeans watch pocket. North American Arms has been perfecting these mini-revolvers for decades, and the Wasp represents a refined evolution—vented rib barrel, skeletonized hammer, and grippy rubber stocks that make this tiny stainless steel revolver shootable and reliable. If you’re a collector who appreciates the engineering that goes into a firearm that fits on a keychain but fires magnum loads, the NAA The Wasp .22 WMR Mini-Revolver — 5-Round Stainless belongs in your rotation.
| Manufacturer | North American Arms (NAA) |
|---|---|
| Model | The Wasp |
| Material | Stainless Steel (frame & cylinder) |
| Compatibility | .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
| Weight | 6.8 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Vented Rib Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: Reduces muzzle flip and helps dissipate heat during rapid strings, keeping your sight picture on target when every shot counts.
- Skeletonized Exposed Hammer — WHY IT MATTERS: Lighter hammer fall means faster lock time, and the skeletonized design prevents snagging when drawing from a pocket or holster—critical for a defensive mini-revolver.
- Black Pebbled Rubber Grips — WHY IT MATTERS: Provides a positive, non-slip hold even with sweaty hands or in wet conditions, taming the .22 WMR’s snap without adding bulk to the grip frame.
- Fixed Front Sight — WHY IT MATTERS: No moving parts means zero chance of sight shift, giving you a consistent, repeatable point of aim for the close-quarters engagements this platform is designed for.
- 5-Round Cylinder in Stainless — WHY IT MATTERS: The stainless cylinder resists corrosion and maintains headspace integrity over thousands of rounds, ensuring reliable ignition with hot magnum loads.
Who It’s For
The Wasp is for the collector who understands that small doesn’t mean fragile. It’s for the gun show regular who wants a conversation piece that also functions as a legitimate deep-concealment backup. It’s for the shooter who appreciates that a single-action revolver demands deliberate, careful handling—and rewards that discipline with extreme portability. If you already own a full-size .22 and want something that rides in a boot or a shirt pocket, this is your piece.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Truly pocket-sized—disappears in a jeans watch pocket or an ankle holster.
- Pro: Stainless steel construction means no rust worries, even if carried against sweaty skin.
- Pro: .22 WMR hits harder than .22 LR, offering real defensive capability in a tiny package.
- Con: Single-action only—requires manual hammer cocking for each shot, which slows follow-ups under stress.
- Con: Fixed sights are basic; not ideal for precision target work beyond 10 yards.
Comparison: NAA The Wasp vs. Competitors
| Feature | NAA The Wasp .22 WMR | Zev Technologies OZ9C | Timney Alpha Glock Trigger |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Single-Action Revolver | Striker-Fired Pistol | Trigger Upgrade (Striker) |
| Caliber | .22 WMR | 9mm | 9mm/.40/.357 |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 15+1 | N/A (trigger only) |
| Weight (unloaded) | 6.8 oz | 24 oz | 2.3 oz |
| Best Use | Deep concealment / backup | Duty / competition | Trigger upgrade for Glock |
While the Zev OZ9C is a full-size competition/duty pistol and the Timney Alpha is a trigger upgrade, neither matches the Wasp’s extreme portability. The Wasp is in a class of its own for those who need a firearm that fits in a coin pocket.
FAQ
Is the NAA The Wasp safe to carry with a round under the hammer?
Yes, but only if you use the hammer notch safety position (half-cock) or carry with an empty chamber under the hammer. NAA recommends carrying with the hammer down on an empty chamber, or using the safety notch between chambers. Always follow the manual.
Can I use .22 Long Rifle in the Wasp?
No. The Wasp is chambered specifically for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). Do not attempt to fire .22 LR—the case length is different, and .22 LR will not seat properly in the cylinder, potentially causing dangerous pressure issues.
Does the Wasp come with a holster?
No, it ships without a holster. However, NAA offers a variety of pocket holsters and belt holsters designed specifically for the Wasp. Many aftermarket makers also produce leather and kydex options for this model.
How do I load and unload the Wasp?
To load: pull the hammer to half-cock, rotate the cylinder to align a chamber with the loading gate on the right side of the frame, insert a cartridge, and rotate to the next chamber. Repeat for all five. To unload: open the loading gate, push the ejector rod (located under the barrel) to push spent cases out one at a time.
Is the Wasp legal in my state?
Because the Wasp is a revolver with a barrel length under 3 inches, some states have restrictions on concealed carry or possession. Check your local laws before ordering. We ship to all 50 states where legal.
Why Buy from Us?
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Browse more in our Revolvers category, or check out Concealed Carry gear and .22 Caliber Firearms.
Last updated: April 2026




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