North American Arms The Earl 3 inch 5-Shot Revolver
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The North American Arms The Earl 3 inch 5-Shot Revolver is a compact single-action mini-revolver blending 1860s aesthetics with modern stainless steel construction for reliable recreational shooting. With its 3-inch octagonal barrel and 5-round capacity, it delivers period-accurate styling in a package that functions as well as it looks. This firearm ships with an extra cylinder and rosewood grips, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate historical design without sacrificing durability.
What is the North American Arms The Earl 3 inch 5-Shot Revolver used for?
The Earl is primarily used for recreational target shooting and close-range plinking due to its compact size and single-action operation. Its 3-inch barrel and fixed sights make it suitable for indoor ranges or backyard setups under 15 yards, while the stainless construction ensures it holds up to frequent use without corrosion. This revolver isn't designed for defensive carry, as its small frame and limited capacity prioritize aesthetics over practicality.
How does the North American Arms The Earl 3 inch 5-Shot Revolver compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Earl excels in compact recreational shooting, whereas the Stevens 334 Rifle in the .308 Win is better for hunting and longer-range accuracy. The Earl weighs 14.5 ounces and fits in a pocket, while the Stevens 334 weighs 6.8 pounds and requires a sling or case for transport. If you value historical charm and portability, choose the Earl; for power and precision at 200+ yards, the Stevens dominates.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Earl weighs 14.5 ounces and measures 6.2 inches in overall length with a 3-inch barrel height of 1.1 inches. Its cylinder diameter is 1.25 inches, and the rosewood grips add minimal bulk for a total width of 1.4 inches. These dimensions make it one of the smallest revolvers on the market, ideal for discreet storage or casual range sessions.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for anyone seeking a defensive firearm or high-capacity shooting. Its 5-round cylinder and single-action mechanism require manual cocking, which slows follow-up shots compared to modern semi-autos like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun. New shooters might find the fixed sights and small grip challenging, and hunters will lack the power needed for game beyond small pests.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one extra removable cylinder, a loading tool, and a basic manual. You get two cylinders total, allowing for quicker reloads during extended range trips, though no case or cleaning kit is provided. The rosewood grips come pre-installed, and all components are stainless steel to resist wear.
Is the North American Arms The Earl 3 inch 5-Shot Revolver worth it at $313.99?
At $313.99, the Earl offers fair value for collectors and history buffs who prioritize aesthetics over performance. Its stainless construction and dual cylinders justify the price for niche use, but practical shooters might prefer a Stevens 334 — our editorial take for similar cost with greater versatility. If you want a conversation piece that functions reliably, it's worth the investment; if you need a workhorse, look elsewhere.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 14.5 oz — 40% lighter than a standard J-frame revolver
- Includes two stainless steel cylinders for 10 total rounds ready to load
- 3-inch octagonal barrel provides historical accuracy and improved balance
- Stainless construction resists corrosion even with frequent use
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights limit accuracy beyond 15 yards — not adjustable for windage or elevation
- Single-action only requires manual cocking, slowing follow-up shots by 2-3 seconds
- Rosewood grips lack texture — may slip during rapid fire without added traction
- No included case or cleaning tools — adds $20-30 to initial setup cost
Key attributes
| upc | 744253001970 |
| manufacturer | North American Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 18603C |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 10.2000 |
| model | Earl |
| package height | 2.7 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.3 |
| sights | Post Front |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Magnum cylinders?
- No, the Earl is designed exclusively for .22 Short and .22 Long Rifle cartridges, not .22 Magnum. North American Arms offers separate models for Magnum calibers, so verify your ammo type before purchase. Using incorrect ammunition can cause malfunctions or damage.
- Does it fit in a pocket holster?
- Yes, its 6.2-inch length and 14.5-ounce weight allow it to fit most small pocket holsters designed for mini-revolvers. Brands like DeSantis or Galco offer options specifically for NAA frames. Ensure the holster accommodates the octagonal barrel profile for a secure fit.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items, plus FFL processing time which varies by state. Ironclad Armory uses FedEx for firearms, and you'll receive tracking once your local dealer accepts the transfer. Delays can occur during high-demand periods like holidays.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms are non-returnable due to federal regulations, but Ironclad Armory allows exchanges within 14 days for unopened accessories. If the grip size is unsuitable, consider aftermarket options from Altamont or similar vendors. Measure your hand span against the 1.4-inch grip width before buying.