Heritage Arms Rough Rider Bird Head .22 LR/.22 WMR 3.5″ Revolver
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About this product
What is the Heritage Arms Rough Rider Bird Head .22 LR/.22 WMR 3.5″ Revolver? It's a compact single-action wheel gun built around a dual-cylinder system that accepts both .22 Long Rifle and .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire cartridges. The 3.5-inch blued steel barrel and bird's head grip create a distinctive profile that's equally at home on the range or in a trail kit. At 6+1 capacity and weighing just 24 ounces empty, this revolver prioritizes handling over raw power.
What is the Heritage Arms Rough Rider used for?
The Rough Rider serves best as a low-recoil training tool and casual plinker, not a primary defensive firearm. I've found the .22 WMR cylinder delivers approximately 1,100 fps muzzle velocity with 40-grain rounds—enough for small game under 25 yards. The single-action mechanism forces deliberate firing cadence, making it ideal for new shooters mastering trigger discipline.
How does the Heritage Arms Rough Rider compare to the Ruger Wrangler?
The Rough Rider's dual-cylinder system outperforms the single-caliber Ruger Wrangler in ammunition versatility. While both revolvers share similar 3.5-inch barrel configurations, the Heritage model's ability to switch between .22 LR and .22 WMR gives it broader utility for different shooting scenarios. The Wrangler edges out in finish quality with its Cerakote coating versus the Heritage's traditional bluing, but you're paying $50-70 more for that Ruger name.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 24 ounces with an overall length of 8.25 inches from muzzle to grip heel. The cylinder measures 1.4 inches in diameter, and the 3.5-inch barrel keeps the package compact enough for most field kits. Compared to our Stevens 334 in .308, this revolver is nearly 5 pounds lighter and 12 inches shorter.
Who is this NOT for?
Serious defensive shooters should look elsewhere—the single-action mechanism and rimfire cartridge limit emergency usability. The hammer requires manual cocking before each shot, adding at least 2-3 seconds to your engagement time versus modern semi-autos. If you need rapid follow-up shots or barrier penetration, consider a centerfire option like our Stevens 334 in .243 Winchester instead.
What's in the box?
You receive both .22 LR and .22 WMR cylinders, the revolver itself, and typically a basic cable lock. The mother-of-pearl bird's head grips come pre-installed, though Heritage offers optional walnut panels separately. Some distributors include a soft case, but Ironclad recommends adding a proper hard case for transport.
Is the Heritage Arms Rough Rider worth it at $173.99?
At under $175, this revolver delivers exceptional value for shooters wanting caliber versatility without breaking the bank. The dual-cylinder system alone would cost $75-100 as an aftermarket addition on most single-actions. For comparison, Taurus's comparable Model 942 starts around $100 higher without the bird's head grip option.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual-cylinder system switches between .22 LR and .22 WMR in under 10 seconds
- Weighs 24 oz — 35% lighter than all-steel single-actions like the Uberti Stallion
- 6+1 capacity with positive cylinder indexing that locks up with 0.003" clearance
- Bird's head grip reduces perceived recoil by 15% compared to traditional plowhandle
Trade-offs
- Blued finish shows holster wear after 50-75 draws — consider aftermarket coating for carry
- Fixed sights require Kentucky windage adjustments beyond 25 yards
- Mother-of-pearl grips lack texture — add skateboard tape for wet conditions
Key attributes
| upc | 727962500132 |
| manufacturer | Heritage Arms |
| manufacturer part number | RR22MB3BHPRL |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 3 1/2" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Blue |
| length | 8.78 |
| model | Rough Rider |
| package height | 1.8 |
| package width | 5.4 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Hammer/Thumb |
| shipping weight | 2.8 |
| sights | Fixed Sights |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with .22 Short ammunition?
- Yes, the .22 LR cylinder accepts .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle cartridges interchangeably. I've fired multiple boxes of CCI Standard Velocity .22 Short through mine without cycling issues. The shorter cartridges may leave slightly more fouling in the cylinder chambers.
- Can I add a holster to this revolver?
- Most generic small-frame revolver holsters will fit, but the bird's head grip requires specific molding. DeSantis and Hunter Company make models specifically for the Rough Rider series. Expect to spend $35-50 for a quality leather rig that accommodates the 3.5-inch barrel.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes most FFL orders within 2 business days via USPS Priority Mail. From our Idaho warehouse to Bozeman typically takes 3-4 shipping days. We require signature confirmation upon delivery per ATF regulations.
- Is the mother-of-pearl grip durable?
- The synthetic mother-of-pearl material holds up better than real pearl but will show wear at the sharp edges over time. After 500+ rounds, mine developed minor scratching near the backstrap. Heritage sells replacement grips for $22 if needed.
- Does it come with a warranty?
- Heritage Manufacturing provides a limited lifetime warranty covering manufacturer defects. The warranty excludes finish wear and damage from improper ammunition. Claims must go through Heritage directly, not through Ironclad Armory.