Description
The North American Arms 22LLR Black Pearl is the long-barrel version of NAA’s 22 Long Rifle mini revolver, dressed in black pearlite grips as a Lipsey’s special run. The 1-5/8 inch barrel adds about half an inch over the standard mini, giving a bit more sight radius and velocity while keeping the gun about 4.5 inches long.
North American Arms 22LLR Black Pearl Overview
Model NAA-22LLR-GP-B is a five-shot, single-action stainless steel revolver with fixed sights and a spur trigger. The longer barrel makes the gun slightly easier to aim and adds a little muzzle weight that helps it settle between shots. Lipsey’s lists the weight only as 2.55 with no unit, so we recommend confirming the exact figure with NAA; comparable 1-5/8 inch 22 LR minis weigh under 5 ounces.
Why Choose the Longer Barrel
The extra half inch of barrel helps in two ways: velocity rises a little, which helps penetration, and the sight radius grows, which makes small aiming errors less costly. For most owners the 1-5/8 inch length is the best balance between pocket size and shootability. It still fits most NAA pocket and belt holsters made for the long-barrel 22 LR frame.
Pearlite Panels
The grips are a black pearlite synthetic with a shimmering, layered appearance. They are tougher than real pearl and resist chipping. Smooth panels look good but offer less traction than rubber, so a consistent grip matters. If you plan to shoot it a lot, keep a set of NAA rubber grips around for range days.
Safe Carry Habits
There is no trigger guard, so a holster that fully covers the spur trigger is required. Load all five chambers, then lower the hammer into a notch between chambers so the firing pin does not rest on a cartridge rim. Removing the cylinder to load and unload is part of owning an NAA, so practice with snap caps or an empty gun first.
At the Range
Thumb-cock, aim with the blade front sight and press the spur trigger straight back. Groups at 5 to 7 yards are realistic once you learn the gun. The longer barrel and tiny grip still mean you should keep strings short and focus on each shot. Clean the cylinder face and chambers after each session.
Ammunition
Use 22 Long Rifle ammunition only. High-velocity round nose loads tend to give the most reliable ignition and penetration from short barrels. Test several brands; rimfire quality varies, and some lots ignite better than others. Store ammunition dry and rotate carry rounds periodically.
Comparing NAA Barrel Lengths
NAA builds its 22 LR mini in 1-1/8 inch and 1-5/8 inch versions, plus larger frames like the Black Widow and Mini-Master with longer barrels and adjustable sights. The 1-5/8 inch gun splits the difference, adding little bulk over the shortest model while being easier to shoot. If you want the smallest possible package, the 1-1/8 inch model is better; if you want accuracy at 10 yards and beyond, consider one of the larger frames.
State Laws and Ownership
Federal, state and local laws all apply to this purchase. Roster states such as California, Massachusetts and Maryland restrict which handgun models can be sold, and grip-variant special runs may not be listed even when a similar model is. Most states require a permit for concealed carry, and some require a purchase permit too.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: North American Arms, Provo, Utah
- Model: Mini-Revolver, NAA-22LLR-GP-B (Lipsey’s special run)
- UPC: 744253002496
- Caliber: 22 Long Rifle
- Action: Single action
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel: 1-5/8 in.
- Overall length: about 4.5 in.
- Weight: listed by Lipsey’s as 2.55 (unit not stated)
- Material: Stainless steel
- Grips: Black pearlite
- Sights: Fixed
Before You Buy
Federal law requires handgun purchasers to be at least 21 years old to buy from a licensed dealer, and this revolver must ship to an FFL where you will complete the transfer and background check.
Who It Is For
The North American Arms 22LLR Black Pearl is a great fit for shooters who want the more shootable long-barrel NAA mini, collectors of special run grip options, and anyone seeking a stylish backup revolver.
Buy the North American Arms 22LLR Black Pearl at MAG5 Firearms
MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the North American Arms 22LLR Black Pearl online and ship it to your local FFL dealer, or browse our full selection of firearms for more revolvers. For factory details, visit North American Arms.
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