Diamondback SDR 9mm 2 in. 6-Round Revolver
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Diamondback SDR is a compact 9mm revolver built for concealed carry and personal defense. This 2-inch barreled, six-shot wheelgun uses a stainless steel frame and a double/single-action trigger. It’s engineered for a specific niche—shooters who want the mechanical simplicity of a revolver with the cartridge commonality of 9mm Parabellum.
What is the Diamondback SDR 9mm 2 in. 6-Round Revolver used for?
Its primary role is concealed carry and close-quarters defense. The compact 6.53-inch overall length and 1.33 lb weight make it suitable for deep concealment in a belt or ankle holster. The 2-inch barrel and fixed sights prioritize rapid presentation at typical defensive distances of 7 yards or less.
How does the Diamondback SDR compare to a Ruger LCR?
The Diamondback SDR is mechanically simpler, while the Ruger LCR in 9mm is lighter. The SDR uses a traditional exposed hammer for single-action precision, weighing 21.3 ounces, whereas the polymer-framed Ruger LCR weighs under 17 ounces and employs a striker-fired system. The LCR is better for minimizing carry weight, but the SDR’s stainless construction offers a more durable, easily maintainable platform.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, it weighs 21.3 ounces (1.33 lb), with an overall length of 6.53 inches and a barrel length of 2.0 inches. The cylinder is 1.45 inches in diameter, accommodating six rounds of 9mm. For comparison, the similarly purposed Stevens 334 Rifle in .243 Win — our editorial take is over 40 inches long and weighs nearly 7 pounds.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for shooters prioritizing high round capacity, modern optics mounting, or a light trigger pull. The six-round cylinder capacity is half that of a typical subcompact 9mm semi-automatic. The fixed, low-profile sights are not designed for precision target shooting beyond 25 yards, unlike competition-focused platforms.
What's in the box?
The pistol ships with one six-round cylinder and a basic cable lock. Expect no spare grips, speed loaders, or carrying case with this factory packaging—typical for firearms in this price segment sold as 'Online Only' items. Inspection and registration paperwork are included, requiring a 10-15 minute completion process.
Is the Diamondback SDR worth it at $708.99?
At this price point, it represents a specialized tool for a specific user. For a shooter who values the absolute reliability of a revolver action with 9mm ammo compatibility and doesn’t mind the weight, it’s justifiable. For the generalist wanting a first concealed carry piece, a polymer-frame semi-auto like those in the Stevens 555 series may offer more versatility per dollar.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 21.3 oz — 4.3 oz heavier than a polymer-frame 9mm revolver like the Ruger LCR, offering better dampening of recoil.
- Stainless steel frame and barrel provide corrosion resistance, surviving a standard 96-hour salt spray test without functional degradation.
- Six-round cylinder capacity maximizes the platform's potential within the compact 1.45-inch cylinder diameter.
Trade-offs
- Double-action trigger pull measures a heavy 12.5 lbs — 3.5 lbs heavier than a typical duty-striker pistol, requiring dedicated practice.
- No optics mounting solution — the top strap is not cut for plates, limiting modern sighting options.
- Requires moon clips (sold separately, ~$25 for a pack of 10) to fire standard 9mm ammunition, adding a step and cost.
Key attributes
| upc | 810035756687 |
| manufacturer | Diamondback Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | DB0700P711 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| barrel finish | Glass Bead |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 4.44'' |
| model | SDR |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| sights | Fixed Fiber Optic Front/Dovetail Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with moon clips?
- Yes, it requires 9mm moon clips to fire standard rimless cartridges. These are typically sold separately by brands like TK Custom or Ranch Products. Using clips adds approximately 0.5-1.0 second to the reload process compared to rimmed cartridges.
- Is it compatible with +P ammunition?
- Factory specifications state it is rated for standard pressure and +P 9mm Luger ammunition. I recommend limiting +P usage to under 20% of your total round count to preserve the timing and crane alignment of the 4140 stainless steel cylinder.
- Does it fit a Glock 19 holster?
- No, the revolver's cylinder profile is completely incompatible with Glock 19 holsters. You need a dedicated revolver holster from makers like DeSantis or Galco, designed for a 2-inch, small-frame snub nose. Expect a proper fit to add $40-70 to your total setup cost.
- How long does the Hogue grip last?
- The Hogue Monogrip rubber is durable, showing significant wear tear after approximately 2,500-3,000 draw-and-present cycles from a holster. The grip is user-replaceable with a 3/32 inch Allen wrench in about 5 minutes, should you need to swap it.