Compact, deliberate, and built for shooters who demand reliability in a minimal package — the Sidewinder earns attention the moment you pick it up. It blends old-school single-action mechanics with modern manufacturing and a practical feature set that makes it an ideal choice for serious collectors, backpacking hunters, or anyone who wants a backup that won’t weigh down a kit.
NORTH AMERICAN ARMS SIDEWINDER
What the SIDEWINDER brings to the table
The SIDEWINDER is a Derringer-style, five-shot swing-out cylinder revolver chambered for .22 Magnum. It’s offered in several barrel lengths and configurations, but the core characteristics that make it stand out are its compact footprint, stainless finish, wood grips, and fixed sights. The model lineup includes 1.5″, 2.5″, and 4″ barrel options, and select variants include a .22 LR conversion cylinder for economical practice.
This particular listing reflects the 2.5″ barrel configuration, stainless finish, single-action operation, five-round capacity, wood grips, and fixed sights — a combination that balances concealability, shootability, and visual appeal. The MSRP shown for this configuration is $366.99, and you can view product details and pricing directly on the shop page.
Design and mechanical features
At its heart the SIDEWINDER is a single-action revolver. The five-shot swing-out cylinder makes loading straightforward and faster than fixed-cylinder derringers. The fixed sights are low-profile for snag-free carry but still provide a consistent sight picture for point-and-shoot accuracy inside typical engagement distances. The stainless finish improves durability and corrosion resistance for outdoor use, while the wood grips add a classic touch and a secure hand feel.
Barrel options and the conversion advantage
One of the clever aspects of the lineup is the availability of a .22 LR conversion cylinder in the SWC variants. The family breaks down roughly like this:
- NAA-SW / NAA-SWC — 1.5″ barrel (SWC includes a .22 LR conversion)
- NAA-SW-250 / NAA-SWC-250 — 2.5″ barrel (SWC-250 includes a .22 LR conversion)
- NAA-SW-4 / NAA-SWC-4 — 4″ barrel (SWC-4 includes a .22 LR conversion)
For shooters who want to stretch practice budgets, the .22 LR conversion cylinder allows you to run inexpensive ammo while preserving the recoil and terminal characteristics of .22 Magnum for carry or hunting. It’s a practical two-caliber approach: train with .22 LR, carry or use .22 Mag when the need arises.
Ballistics and ammo considerations
.22 Magnum offers markedly higher velocity and energy than .22 LR, especially from a 2.5″ or longer barrel. That translates to flatter trajectories and better performance on small game or in emergency defensive situations where shot placement is the priority. Expect more felt recoil than .22 LR, but still very manageable compared to larger handgun calibers. If your primary goal is practice and marksmanship, use the SWC conversion cylinder with .22 LR to save costs and reduce wear on the main cylinder.
Use cases: where the SIDEWINDER excels
Its compact size and five-shot capacity make the SIDEWINDER an excellent choice for:
- Backcountry hunters needing a lightweight sidearm for small predators and field finishing.
- Collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate precise machining and classic aesthetics.
- Those looking for a discreet backup that fits easily in a pack, jacket pocket, or small holster.
Because it’s single-action with fixed sights, the pistol rewards deliberate, practiced shooting. It’s not a high-capacity, rapid-fire defensive platform, and that should guide your expectations and training plan.
Handling, accuracy, and ergonomics
From the grip to the trigger, the SIDEWINDER feels intentionally designed. The wood grips provide a comfortable interface and enough texture for a secure hold without being abrasive. The single-action trigger allows for a crisp break, which paired with the fixed sights and predictable recoil, yields solid accuracy within 25–50 yards for shooters who practice decent fundamentals.
Maintenance and longevity
Stainless steel construction keeps maintenance simple: regular cleaning of the barrel and cylinder, periodic lubrication of the crane/swing-out mechanism, and attention to the timing and lock-up will keep this revolver running reliably for years. Using the .22 LR conversion for routine practice reduces wear on the .22 Mag cylinder and frame, extending the overall life of the firearm.
For parts and servicing, North American Arms is a well-known name in the compact revolver market, and their parts support and aftermarket accessories are established, which helps for long-term ownership.
How it fits in your kit and buying guide
At a price point of $366.99 for the 2.5″ stainless model, the SIDEWINDER is an affordable way to add a specialized compact revolver to your collection. Factor in the cost of a spare conversion cylinder if you plan to practice with .22 LR, plus quality holster options and a safe transport case. If you want the best value for practice, look for SWC variants that include the conversion cylinder so you get two calibers in one package.
Check current availability and ensure you’re selecting the barrel length and conversion option that match your intended use. The product page maintains up-to-date stock info and will take you to the retailer for purchase.
View product details and pricing
Final tactical notes
The SIDEWINDER is a specialized tool: compact, accurate for its size, and versatile thanks to optional conversion cylinders and multiple barrel lengths. If you want a lightweight, reliable five-shot revolver chambered in .22 Magnum with the option to practice on a budget using .22 LR, this model family deserves a close look. It’s not a universal solution, but for the right mission profile — backpacking, small-game field use, or a serious backup piece — it pairs strong mechanical design with sensible ergonomics.
If you’re ready to add this compact precision revolver to your gear, check availability and purchase details on the shop page where you’ll be directed to the retailer to complete your order.
People Also Ask
What makes this product stand out from competitors?
This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Is this product suitable for beginners?
Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.
What warranty or support is available?
The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.
How does this compare to similar products in its price range?
This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.
What maintenance is required?
Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.
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