North American Arms The Earl 22 WMR 4″ Stainless 5rd

If you’re a city dweller who values a deep concealment piece that can still reach out and touch something at 50 yards, the North American Arms The Earl 22 WMR 4″ Stainless 5rd is a serious option. This is a single-action mini-revolver chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum, built around a removable 5-shot cylinder. The 4-inch octagonal stainless barrel and frame give it that 1860-style vibe, but the modern materials and compact dimensions make it practical for apartment dwellers who need a discreet carry piece for pest control or casual target shooting. The rosewood boot grip feels solid in the hand, and fixed sights keep it simple. Per North American Arms specs, this revolver is designed for experienced users who understand manual safety and single-action operation.

Manufacturer	North American Arms
Model	The Earl
Material	Stainless steel (frame and barrel)
Compatibility	.22 Winchester Magnum (WMR) ammunition
Finish	Brushed stainless
Weight	Approx. 8.2 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• 4-Inch Octagonal Barrel: Why it matters: The longer barrel gives you better velocity and accuracy than a snub-nose, making it viable for small-game hunting at urban range distances.
• Removable 5-Shot Cylinder: Why it matters: Quick reloads without speedloaders — swap cylinders in seconds for a fresh five rounds, ideal for sustained plinking sessions.
• Rosewood Boot Grip: Why it matters: Provides a secure hold even with sweaty hands, and the compact profile prevents printing under a T-shirt or light jacket.
• Single-Action Trigger: Why it matters: Predictable, crisp break for accurate shots — but requires manual cocking, which is a safety advantage for experienced carriers.
• Stainless Construction: Why it matters: Resists rust from humidity in tight urban storage spots like nightstands or gloveboxes.

Who It’s For

This revolver is built for the urban CCW holder who wants a backup piece or a deep-concealment option that doesn’t scream ‘gun.’ Apartment dwellers looking for a pest-control tool for raccoons or rats in the alley will appreciate the .22 WMR’s punch. Experienced shooters who don’t mind single-action discipline will find it a reliable companion for range days or trail walks. It’s not for beginners — the manual safety and small grip require familiarity.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Extremely lightweight (8.2 oz) — you’ll forget it’s in your pocket.
• Pro: .22 WMR hits harder than .22 LR, making it more effective for small threats.
• Pro: Vintage aesthetic turns heads at the range.
• Con: Single-action only — slow to get on target under stress compared to a double-action revolver or semi-auto.
• Con: Fixed sights are basic; no windage or elevation adjustment for precision work.

Comparison vs. Competitors

Feature	North American Arms The Earl	Ruger LCR .22 WMR	Taurus 942 .22 WMR
Action	Single-action	Double-action	Double-action
Capacity	5 rounds	8 rounds	8 rounds
Weight	8.2 oz	13.5 oz	22 oz
Barrel Length	4 inches	1.875 inches	2 inches
Price (approx)	$292	$500+	$350+

FAQ

Is the North American Arms The Earl legal in my state?

Generally, yes — it’s a revolver, so no magazine capacity restrictions apply. But check local laws on .22 WMR ammo and concealed carry. We ship to all 50 states.

How do I load the cylinder?

The cylinder is removable — press the cylinder pin forward, slide the cylinder out, load each chamber, then reinsert. Single-action only, so cock the hammer after loading.

Can I use .22 LR in this revolver?

No — it’s chambered strictly for .22 Winchester Magnum (WMR). Using .22 LR can cause dangerous pressure issues. Stick to the specified caliber.

Is this revolver good for self-defense?

It can work as a backup or deep-concealment piece, but .22 WMR is less effective than 9mm or .38 Special. Use it for pest control or plinking — not primary defense.

Trust & Delivery

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

Looking for more? Check out our Revolvers, CCW Gear, or Ammunition categories.

Last updated: April 2026