North American Arms 22MGBG Mini-Revolver .22 WMR 1.63″ 5-Shot
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 4.60 oz - 60% lighter than a Ruger LCP
- 1.63″ barrel enables deep concealment in pocket or ankle rigs
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion better than blued alternatives
- 5-round cylinder provides one more shot than typical derringers
Trade-offs
- Single-action only requires cocking hammer before each shot - adds 2 seconds to follow-up shots
- 1.63″ barrel reduces .22 WMR velocity by approximately 300 fps compared to 4″ barrels
- Miniature sights are difficult to acquire quickly - effective range limited to 7 yards
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The North American Arms 22MGBG Mini-Revolver .22 WMR 1.63″ 5-Shot is a single-action stainless steel mini-revolver engineered for deep concealment and close-range defensive use. Chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, this 4.60-ounce firearm represents one of the smallest commercially available centerfire-capable handguns on the market. Its 1.63-inch barrel and 4-inch overall length prioritize minimal footprint over ballistic performance, making it a tool for specific scenarios rather than general-purpose shooting.
What is the 22MGBG Mini-Revolver used for?
This revolver is designed exclusively for deep concealment and emergency defensive use at distances under 7 yards. The single-action operation and 5-round capacity dictate a deliberate, close-quarters engagement philosophy, not rapid fire. I consider it a last-resort tool for situations where even a micro-compact semi-auto like a Ruger LCP would print noticeably.
How does the 22MGBG compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The 22MGBG is fundamentally different from the Stevens 334 in both purpose and capability—the Stevens is better for hunting and precision at 100+ yards. While the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester delivers effective energy at 200 yards, the 22MGBG's .22 WMR drops significantly past 25 yards. Choose the Stevens for hunting; choose the NAA for concealment where no other firearm fits.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 4.60 ounces empty and measures 4 inches in overall length with a 1.63-inch barrel. The cylinder diameter is 1.125 inches, and the boot grip adds approximately 0.75 inch to the backstrap. These dimensions allow it to disappear in a pocket holster or ankle carry rig with minimal printing.
Who is this NOT for?
This firearm is not for new shooters, recreational plinkers, or anyone seeking a primary defensive weapon. The miniature sights, heavy double-action-only pull (where applicable), and limited capacity make it impractical for training or extended range sessions. If you need a general-purpose .22, look at a Stevens 555 shotgun for versatility.
What's in the box?
The factory packaging includes the revolver, one 5-round cylinder, and typically a padded zip case. Some distributors include a basic cable lock, but holsters and speedloaders are aftermarket purchases. Expect documentation but no spare grips or tools—this is a no-frills delivery focused on the hardware itself.
Is the 22MGBG worth it at $292.99?
At $292.99, this revolver justifies its cost only if you require maximum concealability in a centerfire-capable format. The precision machining and stainless construction account for the price point compared to polymer-framed alternatives. For the niche user who needs deep concealment, it's priced appropriately; for everyone else, it's an expensive novelty.
Key attributes
| upc | 744253001543 |
| manufacturer | North American Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 22MGBG |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 1.63" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 WMR |
| capacity | 5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| sights | Half Moon |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the 22MGBG is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR). Attempting to fire .22 Long Rifle cartridges will result in malfunctions and potential safety issues due to chamber dimension differences. Always verify caliber markings on the barrel before loading.
- Does it fit in a standard pocket holster?
- Yes, its 4-inch overall length and 1.125-inch cylinder diameter allow it to fit most miniature revolver holsters from brands like DeSantis or Barsony. Specific models designed for North American Arms mini-revolvers will provide the best retention and concealment profile.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to your selected FFL dealer typically takes 3-5 business days after order processing. All firearms ship with required ATF documentation and must be received by a licensed dealer for background check completion before transfer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms sales are generally final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. We recommend handling similar models at a local dealer before purchase. Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day warranty against manufacturing defects, but fit is subjective and not grounds for return.