North American Arms 22MDLX LDLX .22 Mag 5-Shot Revolver 1.13″
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The North American Arms 22MDLX LDLX is a compact single-action .22 Magnum revolver designed for concealed carry backup roles with a 1.13" stainless barrel and 5-round cylinder weighing just 6.20 ounces. This ultra-compact platform delivers Magnum terminal performance in a package smaller than most smartphones, built with traditional exposed hammer operation and rosewood grips for shooters who value mechanical simplicity and discretion. Its 4.63" overall length and single-action trigger make it one of the most concealable centerfire-capable revolvers on the market.
What is the North American Arms 22MDLX LDLX used for?
This revolver serves as a deep-concealment backup weapon or minimalist pocket carry option for experienced shooters who understand its ballistic limitations. The 1.13" barrel produces velocities around 900-950 fps with .22 WMR ammunition, making it effective only at contact distances under 7 yards where its fixed half-moon sights become irrelevant. I'd recommend Federal Premium 40gr JHP loads for maximum terminal effect from this short barrel, though shot placement remains absolutely critical given the small caliber.
How does the North American Arms 22MDLX LDLX compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The NAA revolver delivers extreme portability at the cost of ballistic performance, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides hunting-capable power with 20" barrel ballistics. Where the Stevens 334 generates over 2,600 fps muzzle velocity with 150gr ammunition for ethical deer hunting at 200+ yards, the NAA's 1.13" barrel struggles to achieve adequate expansion even with premium defensive loads. Choose the NAA for discreet personal protection where concealment trumps power, and the Stevens for hunting or longer-range applications where shot placement isn't measured in inches.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 6.20 ounces empty and measures 4.63" long × 2.38" high × 0.87" wide with rosewood grips installed. This makes it approximately 58% lighter than most polymer-frame micro-compact pistols like the Ruger LCP II (11.6 oz) and slim enough to disappear in a front pocket holster. The cylinder diameter measures 1.06" across with a 0.87" frame width, allowing it to fit in watch pockets or minimalist ankle rigs where even subcompact automatics would print noticeably.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is unsuitable for new shooters, those seeking home defense capability, or anyone expecting modern semi-automatic features. The single-action operation requires manually cocking the hammer before each shot, adding approximately 1.5 seconds to subsequent shots compared to double-action revolvers. The tiny sights and minimal grip surface make accurate shooting beyond 7 yards challenging without extensive practice, and the .22 WMR cartridge lacks the stopping power of even minimal centerfire defensive rounds like .380 ACP.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one 5-round cylinder, and basic documentation without accessories or cleaning tools. Unlike the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun which includes choke tubes and shims, NAA provides only the bare essentials—you'll need to purchase aftermarket holsters, speed loaders, and cleaning equipment separately. Expect to invest another $75-120 in essential accessories like a DeSantis Pocket-Tuk holster and Tuff Products Quick Strips for practical carry.
Is the North American Arms 22MDLX LDLX worth it at $698.99?
At nearly $700, this revolver commands premium pricing for its niche role as an ultra-concealable backup weapon. The investment buys exceptional stainless steel craftsmanship and unique engineering rather than practical ballistic performance, making it worthwhile only for specific use cases where deeper concealment than micro-9mm pistols provides is necessary. Compared to a $400 Ruger LCR in .38 Special, you're paying $300 more for 71% less weight and significantly reduced power—a trade-off that makes sense only for certain professional or medical constraints.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.20 oz—54% lighter than most steel-frame snub noses
- 1.13" barrel enables deep concealment in pockets or ankle rigs
- Polished stainless construction resists corrosion better than blued models
- 5-round capacity matches larger revolvers in minimal package
Trade-offs
- Single-action only requires manual hammer cocking before each shot
- .22 WMR produces only 130-150 ft-lbs energy from 1.13" barrel
- No accessory rail for lights or lasers—purely mechanical sights
- Rosewood grips show wear quickly with daily carry—plan $45 for replacements
Key attributes
| upc | 744253000539 |
| manufacturer | North American Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 22MDLX |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | Polished |
| barrel length | 1.13" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| sights | Half Moon |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the 22MDLX LDLX is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) cartridges. Attempting to fire .22 Long Rifle ammunition will cause dangerous pressure issues and possible cylinder damage due to the shorter cartridge length and different chamber dimensions. Stick with CCI, Federal, or Hornady .22 WMR loads rated for short barrels.
- Does it fit in a pocket holster?
- Yes, the 4.63" length and 0.87" width allow it to fit most compact pocket holsters designed for micro pistols. I recommend the DeSantis Nemesis model #TCD-111 for optimal concealment, which adds only 0.15" to the overall width. The 6.20 ounce weight prevents noticeable sag in dress slacks or jeans pockets during all-day carry.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses takes 3-5 business days after the mandatory 3-day waiting period for handgun transfers. All firearms ship via FedEx Priority Overnight with adult signature required, with tracking provided within 24 hours of order processing. Rural deliveries may add 1-2 additional days depending on local carrier routes.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms sales are final once the transfer is completed at your FFL dealer, as required by federal law. We recommend handling similar NAA models at local dealers before purchasing—the 2.38" grip height accommodates 2-finger hold only, with pinky clearance being the most common fitment issue for shooters with larger hands.