The North American Arms Earl Hogleg .22 WMR 6″ 5-Rd Stainless is a compact single-action revolver built for shooters who want a reliable trail gun or a deep-concealment piece that doesn’t compromise on punch. Chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum, this little wheelgun packs a serious punch for its size, and the exposed hammer keeps things old-school. I’ve carried one on backpacking trips and it disappears in a pocket holster, ready for small game or just plinking. The stainless finish and rosewood grips give it a classic look that’s tough enough for daily abuse.
| Manufacturer | North American Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Earl 1860 “Hogleg” |
| Material | Stainless steel (frame, barrel, cylinder) |
| Compatibility | .22 Winchester Magnum (.22 WMR) ammunition |
| Finish | Stainless (satin) |
| Weight | Approximately 8.5 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Heavy Octagonal 6″ Barrel: This barrel profile adds weight up front for steadier aim and better recoil control—something you’ll appreciate when you’re stretching out to 50 yards with .22 WMR.
- 5-Shot Cylinder in .22 WMR: Five rounds of .22 Magnum give you enough power for small-game hunting or defensive backup without the bulk of a larger caliber. It’s a sweet spot for a pocket revolver.
- Exposed Hammer: You get single-action precision—cock it manually for a crisp trigger pull. That’s a huge advantage for accuracy over a shrouded hammer design.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Corrosion-resistant and low-maintenance. This gun laughs at rain, sweat, and humidity—perfect for an EDC piece that lives in your pocket or pack.
- Rosewood Grips: These wood panels provide a secure hold and a classic look that stands out from the plastic-grip crowd. They also help soak up a bit of the .22 WMR snap.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the EDC enthusiast who wants a lightweight, no-fuss backup gun that’s easy to carry every day. It’s also ideal for hikers, campers, and fishermen who need a reliable snake or small-game gun that won’t weigh down a belt or pack. If you’re into historical-style firearms with modern reliability, the Earl Hogleg fits right in.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Ultra-lightweight (8.5 oz), stainless for low maintenance, accurate 6″ barrel, classic single-action trigger, affordable price point under $350.
- Cons: The exposed hammer can snag on clothing during a fast draw—practice your pocket carry technique. Also, the .22 WMR has more recoil than .22 LR, so new shooters might flinch at first.
Comparison vs. Similar Revolvers
| Feature | NAA Earl Hogleg .22 WMR | Ruger LCR .22 WMR | Smith & Wesson 43C .22 LR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 WMR | .22 WMR | .22 LR |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 8 rounds | 8 rounds |
| Action | Single-action (exposed hammer) | Double-action (enclosed hammer) | Double-action (enclosed hammer) |
| Weight | 8.5 oz | 13.5 oz | 11.9 oz |
| Barrel Length | 6″ | 1.875″ | 1.875″ |
| Price (approx.) | $335 | $600+ | $500+ |
The Earl Hogleg is lighter and more affordable than both, but the Ruger LCR offers a faster double-action trigger and higher capacity. The Smith & Wesson 43C is a great .22 LR option but lacks the magnum punch. For the price, the NAA is a solid value.
FAQ
Is the North American Arms Earl Hogleg .22 WMR suitable for concealed carry?
Yes, it’s designed for deep concealment. At 8.5 oz and just over 6 inches overall, it fits in a pocket holster or an ankle rig. The exposed hammer requires training to avoid snags, but many carriers prefer the single-action accuracy for defensive use.
What kind of accuracy can I expect from the 6″ barrel?
With the heavy octagonal barrel, you can expect 2-3 inch groups at 25 yards from a rest using quality .22 WMR ammo. That’s excellent for a pocket revolver—better than most snub-nosed .22s.
Can I shoot .22 LR through this revolver?
No, the cylinder is chambered for .22 WMR only. .22 LR rounds will not fit properly and could be dangerous. Stick with .22 Winchester Magnum ammunition for safe operation.
What holsters work best for the Earl Hogleg?
Look for holsters specifically for NAA single-action revolvers with a 6″ barrel. Many pocket holsters from brands like Uncle Mike’s or DeSantis fit. The slim profile also works with universal revolver pouches.
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Browse more options in our Revolvers and Concealed Carry categories. Last updated: April 2026.






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