The North American Arms Sidewinder 22M/22LR 1.5″ SS is a compact, stainless-steel rimfire revolver that swaps between .22 Magnum and .22 Long Rifle cylinders without tools. It’s built for deep-concealment carry, trail use, and as a backup piece—no safeties, no slides, just a proven wheelgun design in a pocket-ready package.
| Manufacturer | North American Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Sidewinder |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and cylinder |
| Compatibility | .22 Magnum and .22 Long Rifle (interchangeable cylinders included) |
| Finish | Brushed stainless steel |
| Weight | 5.6 oz (empty, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Tool-Free Cylinder Swap — Why it matters: switching between .22 Magnum and .22 LR takes seconds, no screwdrivers or punches needed. That means you can train cheap with .22 LR and carry hot .22 Mag loads without buying a second gun.
- Stainless Steel Construction — Why it matters: this revolver resists rust and corrosion from sweat, rain, or humidity. For an EDC piece that lives in a pocket or ankle holster, that’s the difference between a reliable tool and a maintenance headache.
- Five-Round Capacity — Why it matters: five shots of .22 Magnum out of a 1.5″ barrel deliver more energy than a .25 ACP pocket pistol, and the exposed hammer lets you stage the trigger for precision shots.
- Fixed Front Sight with Grooved Rear — Why it matters: no snagging on draw, and the low-profile sight picture is intuitive at defensive distances. You point, you shoot.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the everyday carrier who wants a backup gun that disappears in a pocket, a boot, or a belly band. It’s also for hikers, campers, and fishermen who need a light, rust-resistant snake-shot dispenser. If you already carry a semi-auto and want a rimfire revolver for deep concealment or as a trail gun, the Sidewinder fits.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Ultra-light at 5.6 oz; dual-caliber flexibility; no slide to rack; simple manual of arms; stainless steel holds up to sweat and moisture.
- Cons: The 1.5″ barrel limits velocity—expect .22 Magnum to perform closer to .22 LR ballistics. Also, the tiny grip can be hard to control for larger hands, especially with hot Magnum loads.
Comparison
| Feature | NAA Sidewinder 1.5″ SS | Ruger LCR .22 Mag | Taurus 942 .22 Mag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Mag / .22 LR (interchangeable) | .22 Mag only | .22 Mag only |
| Weight | 5.6 oz | 13.5 oz | 17.5 oz |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 8 rounds | 8 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 1.5″ | 1.875″ | 2″ |
| Action | Single-action only | Double-action / single-action | Double-action / single-action |
| Price | ~$516 | ~$650 | ~$400 |
FAQ
Can I shoot .22 Long Rifle in the Sidewinder without changing cylinders?
No. You must swap to the included .22 LR cylinder. The .22 Magnum cylinder is not rated for .22 LR due to headspace and chamber differences. Switching cylinders takes about 15 seconds—push the pin, swap, re-pin.
Is this revolver legal to carry in all 50 states?
Generally yes, but check local laws. The Sidewinder is a single-action revolver with a 1.5″ barrel, so it’s not classified as an NFA item. Some states have restrictions on rimfire handguns for concealed carry—verify with your local authority.
Does the Sidewinder have a safety?
No manual safety. The revolver has a transfer-bar safety system that prevents firing unless the trigger is pulled fully. The exposed hammer can be lowered to half-cock for safe carry, but most users carry it in a pocket holster that covers the trigger.
What holsters work with the 1.5″ barrel model?
Any NAA Sidewinder-specific pocket holster fits. Uncle Mike’s #1 pocket holster also works. For ankle carry, look for a holster that retains the revolver by the trigger guard, not the barrel.
How does the trigger feel?
Single-action only. The factory trigger pull is around 4-5 lbs with a clean break. There’s a slight stacking at the end, but it’s predictable. After a few hundred rounds, it smooths out.
Why Buy From Us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Browse more options in our Revolvers category, or check out Rimfire Handguns and Concealed Carry Gear.
Last updated: April 2026
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Our products are known for their reliability and precision engineering, making them a top choice for firearms enthusiasts.
Q2: Is this legal in my state?
Firearm regulations vary by location. We automatically check your local laws during checkout.
Q3: Can I customize this firearm?
Yes! We offer customization options for most products. Contact us for special requests.
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