Diamondback Sidekick Civil Defense Blue 22 LR/22 WMR 4.5in – Reliable Nine-Shot Rimfire Revolver

Description

The Diamondback Sidekick Civil Defense Blue (model DB0500A251) is a nine-shot rimfire revolver with western lines, a 4.5 inch barrel and two cylinders, one for 22 LR and one for 22 WMR. The blue finish was designed with custom builder Jesse James, and it gives an affordable plinker a look you will not see at every range.

Diamondback Sidekick Civil Defense Blue Overview

Diamondback built the Sidekick to be a fun, practical rimfire that a new shooter can learn on and an experienced shooter can carry on the trail. It looks like a classic single action, yet it fires double action or single action and loads through a side-opening cylinder instead of a loading gate. The alloy frame keeps weight to about 32.5 ounces, which is heavy enough to soak up the small recoil of 22 LR and light enough for a day on your hip. Overall length is 9.875 inches.

Two Calibers in One Revolver

The Sidekick ships with a 22 LR cylinder and a 22 WMR cylinder. Swapping takes a few seconds and no tools: pull the cylinder assembly out, drop the other one in, and you are shooting a different cartridge. Cheap 22 LR is ideal for practice and teaching, while 22 Magnum gives noticeably more energy for pests and small game. Each cylinder holds nine rounds, which is a lot of shooting between reloads for a revolver.

Swing-Out Loading and Simple Controls

Instead of loading one chamber at a time through a gate like a traditional single action, the Sidekick uses a swing-out cylinder that opens to the side, so you can load and unload quickly and eject empties with the ejector rod. You can thumb the hammer back for a light single action pull or simply press the trigger for double action. A transfer bar safety keeps the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pressed.

Sights, Grip and Accuracy

The sights are a fixed blade front and a rear notch, which is simple and durable but not adjustable. Expect a 22 LR and a 22 WMR load to hit at slightly different points at 25 yards, so try both cylinders on paper before you hunt. The checkered black nylon grips fill the hand well for most shooters and resist moisture. This is a plinking and trail gun, not a target revolver, and it should be judged on that basis.

The Civil Defense Blue Finish

Civil Defense Blue is an applied coating in a deep steel-blue color created with Jesse James. It is a cosmetic choice rather than a traditional hot blued finish, so treat it like any coated gun: wipe it down after handling, use a nylon brush rather than steel when cleaning, and expect honest wear at the muzzle and cylinder edges with heavy use. The color pairs well with black or brown leather holsters made for 4.5 inch western revolvers.

Honest Caveats

The Sidekick costs far less than a Ruger or Smith and Wesson rimfire revolver, and you should not expect the same fit and polish. Some owners report a heavy double action pull and the need to clean the cylinders often, especially with dirty 22 LR. Keep the 22 WMR cylinder clean, because magnum brass can stick in a fouled chamber. Never load 22 WMR ammunition in the 22 LR cylinder or the reverse.

State Laws and Ownership

Handgun purchase rules differ from state to state. California, Massachusetts and some other states maintain handgun rosters or approved lists, and others require a permit, license or safety course before purchase. Check the current rules where you live, and ask your receiving FFL to confirm the transfer before you order.

Specifications

• Brand: Diamondback Firearms
• Model: Sidekick
• Manufacturer part number: DB0500A251
• UPC: 810035755871
• Calibers: 22 LR and 22 WMR (two cylinders included)
• Capacity: 9 rounds
• Action: double action and single action
• Barrel length: 4.5 inches
• Overall length: 9.875 inches
• Weight: 32.5 ounces
• Frame: alloy
• Finish: Jesse James Civil Defense Blue
• Grips: black checkered nylon
• Sights: fixed blade front, notch rear

Before You Buy

Federal law requires that this handgun ship to a licensed FFL dealer, where you will complete ATF Form 4473 and a background check. You must be 21 or older to buy a handgun from a dealer. Some states and cities add permits, waiting periods or handgun rosters, so confirm with your receiving FFL that this model can be transferred to you before you order.

Who It Is For

The Diamondback Sidekick Civil Defense Blue is a great fit for new shooters learning on a rimfire revolver, campers and hikers who want a light trail gun, and collectors who like western looks in an unusual color.

Buy the Diamondback Sidekick Civil Defense Blue at MAG5 Firearms

MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the Diamondback Sidekick Civil Defense Blue online and ship it to your local FFL dealer, or browse our full selection of firearms for more revolvers. For factory details, visit Diamondback Firearms.