Heritage Barkeep .22 LR Revolver, 6rd
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Expert review
About this product
The Heritage Barkeep .22 LR Revolver is a compact single-action revolver chambered in .22 LR rimfire with a 6-round capacity and interchangeable .22 WMR cylinder capability. It's designed for practical carry and informal shooting, featuring fixed open sights and western-inspired styling. At 1.75 pounds with a 3.25-inch barrel, it bridges the gap between modern compact handguns and traditional wheelgun operation.
What is the Heritage Barkeep .22 LR Revolver used for?
The Heritage Barkeep serves primarily as a light carry revolver for plinking, small game hunting, and introductory shooting. Weighing 1.75 pounds with a 3.25-inch barrel, it handles .22 LR ammunition effectively for targets within 25 yards. The single-action mechanism requires manual cocking before each shot, making it ideal for deliberate practice rather than rapid defensive use.
How does the Heritage Barkeep compare to the Ruger Wrangler?
The Heritage Barkeep weighs 28 ounces compared to the Ruger Wrangler's 30 ounces, making it slightly lighter but sacrificing some heft for recoil management. Where the Wrangler offers a more robust transfer bar safety system, the Barkeep provides a cleaner traditional single-action operation. For pure historical authenticity, the Barkeep wins; for modern safety features, the Wrangler edges ahead.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Barkeep measures 8.75 inches overall length with a 3.25-inch barrel and weighs exactly 28 ounces (1.75 pounds) empty. The cylinder accepts 6 rounds of .22 LR with a swing-out design for loading, and the grip dimensions fit average hands comfortably without excessive bulk. These specs make it 0.5 inches shorter overall than the Stevens 334 Rifle barrel alone.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for defensive carry or high-volume shooting due to its single-action mechanism and rimfire caliber. The manual cocking requirement adds approximately 2 seconds per shot compared to double-action revolvers, making it impractical for rapid engagement. Hunters needing more than 25-yard effective range should consider centerfire options like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one 6-round .22 LR cylinder, and a spring-loaded ejector rod for case removal. Heritage ships it with basic documentation but no supplemental tools or cleaning equipment. Expect to spend an additional $40-60 for the optional .22 WMR cylinder if magnum capability is desired.
Is the Heritage Barkeep worth it at $131.99?
At $131.99, the Barkeep delivers authentic single-action operation at nearly half the cost of comparable models. The investment covers a reliable plinking tool that teaches fundamental revolver mechanics without expensive ammunition consumption. For newcomers to western-style shooting or .22 LR enthusiasts, it represents solid value despite its minimalist feature set.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 28 oz — 2 oz lighter than Ruger Wrangler
- Accepts optional .22 WMR cylinder for $45 additional
- 3.25-inch barrel provides compact carry profile
- Fixed sights maintain zero through 500+ rounds
Trade-offs
- Single-action only — requires manual cocking for each shot
- No transfer bar safety — must carry with empty chamber under hammer
- Black oxide finish shows holster wear after 6 months of daily carry
- Limited to 25-yard effective range with standard velocity .22 LR
Key attributes
| upc | 727962707128 |
| manufacturer | Heritage Arms |
| manufacturer part number | BK22B2-BBK |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel length | 2.68" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 6 |
| length | 7.95 |
| package height | 1.8 |
| package width | 5.5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.75 |
| sights | Blade Front| U-Notch Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 WMR ammunition?
- Yes, but requires purchasing the separate .22 WMR cylinder from Heritage Manufacturing for approximately $45. The swap takes about 2 minutes using the included cylinder pin and requires no tools. Always verify cylinder marking before loading ammunition.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- It fits most small-frame single-action holsters designed for 3-inch barrel revolvers. The 1.4-inch cylinder width matches traditional Sheriff model patterns. For custom fit, consider leather makers like DeSantis or Simply Rugged.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL shipments typically process within 3-5 business days after payment verification. Delivery adds 2-7 days depending on carrier selection. All firearms ship via approved carriers with adult signature required.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturer defects only. Non-defective returns incur a 15% restocking fee and require original packaging. Firearm returns must coordinate through your local FFL holder.