DBF SIDEKICK 22LR/WMR 4.5″ 9RD GRY
About this product
The DBF Sidekick 22LR/WMR 4.5" 9RD GRY is a nine-shot, swing-out cylinder revolver capable of firing both .22 Long Rifle and .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire cartridges. This dual-caliber platform provides shooters with a versatile and cost-effective option suitable for multiple contexts, from range training to small-game harvesting. The 4.5-inch barrel and gray polymer frame balance handling for a wide range of applications.
What is the Sidekick used for?
The Sidekick is used primarily as a low-recoil, versatile training and utility firearm. Its dual-cylinder design allows a shooter to practice fundamentals with affordable .22LR ammunition and switch to the more potent .22 WMR for serious pest control or rimfire small-game hunting at distances under 30 yards. The 9-round capacity and single/double-action trigger offer flexibility for deliberate target work and faster follow-ups.
How does the Sidekick compare to the Heritage Rough Rider?
The DBF Sidekick is a mechanically superior option for shooters prioritizing rapid caliber swapping. Where the Heritage Rough Rider requires a full cylinder swap with a tool, the Sidekick's swing-out cylinder allows nine .22LR or .22 WMR cases to be ejected simultaneously, enabling a caliber change in under 10 seconds. The Heritage, however, typically offers a lower entry price point and more traditional single-action operation.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Sidekick weighs 24.5 ounces unloaded, with an overall length of 9.5 inches and a barrel length of 4.5 inches. This weight is distributed in a compact package with a grip-to-muzzle dimension of 4.5 inches, making it suitable for medium-sized hands and field carry in a holster. The cylinder width is 1.4 inches, contributing to its slim profile for a nine-shot revolver.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for shooters seeking a dedicated, high-capacity self-defense tool or precision long-range rimfire performance. While .22 WMR offers defensive capability, modern micro-compact pistols in calibers like .380 ACP offer higher capacity and more reliable terminal ballistics. For precision shooting beyond 50 yards, a dedicated bolt-action like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win is a far more capable platform.
What’s in the box?
A complete Sidekick kit includes the loaded revolver with one 9-round .22LR cylinder installed, a dedicated 9-round .22 WMR cylinder stored separately, a standard speed loader, and a security lock. The package does not include a cleaning kit or a dedicated hard case, so buyers should budget an additional $25-40 for those essentials. The total shipped weight of the box is approximately 4.5 pounds.
Is the Sidekick worth it at $292.99?
At $292.99, the Sidekick offers good value as a mechanical introduction to revolvers and dual-caliber versatility. You are paying for the convenience of a quick-change cylinder system which is more robust than many budget competitor designs. If your primary use is simple plinking with .22LR, a single-caliber revolver costs less, but for a shooter who wants one frame to handle both rimfire roles, this price is competitive for the feature set.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- True dual-caliber capability — swap from .22LR to .22 WMR in under 10 seconds via swing-out cylinder
- Holds 9 rounds per cylinder — 3 more than many 6-shot .22 revolvers on the market
- Weighs 24.5 oz — manageable for all-day carry compared to steel-frame revolvers over 30 oz
- 4.5-inch barrel provides sight radius suitable for accurate shooting out to 30-40 yards
Trade-offs
- No optic-ready mounting system — iron sights only, limiting upgrade potential
- Polymer frame construction lacks the heft and durability of an aluminum or steel frame under heavy .22 WMR use
- Trigger pull in double-action mode measures a heavy 12-14 lbs, requiring dedicated practice for smooth operation
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 810035755352 |
| manufacturer | Diamondback Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | DB0500A051 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Dark Gray Cerakote |
| barrel length | 4.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 9 |
| color | Dark Gray, Black |
| length | 5.5 |
| model | Sidekick |
| package height | 1.7 |
| package width | 6.8 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Hammer |
| shipping weight | 3.05 |
| sights | Blade Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Sidekick compatible with .22 Short or .22 CB Cap ammunition?
- No, the Sidekick's chambers are specifically cut for the longer case lengths of .22 Long Rifle and .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire. Attempting to fire shorter cartridges like .22 Short or CB Caps can cause extraction and ignition issues. Stick to standard velocity or high-velocity .22LR and .22 WMR for reliable function.
- Does it fit standard small-frame revolver holsters?
- Yes, the Sidekick's frame and 4.5-inch barrel profile are designed to fit holsters made for small-frame revolvers like the Ruger Wrangler or similarly sized single-actions. Verify the specific holster model accommodates a cylinder width of 1.4 inches. A universal nylon or leather paddle holster for this size class will typically work.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Ironclad Armory requires any functional returns to be processed through their licensed dealer network or direct customer service within 30 days of purchase, with the original packaging and all components. They will issue an RMA number for inspection; do not ship a firearm directly without authorization. Expect the evaluation process to take 10-14 business days.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- No, the DBF Sidekick is not designed for suppressed use. The barrel does not have threaded muzzle, and the cylinder gap inherent to all revolvers would vent gas and sound directly sideways, negating most of a suppressor's benefit. For suppressed .22LR training, you need a pistol or rifle with a threaded barrel, like many dedicated .22 target models.