Description
The North American Arms 50th Black Pearl (model NAA-22M-50B) is one of two limited edition revolvers NAA built to mark fifty years of making mini revolvers. It is the classic 1-5/8 inch 22 Magnum mini with scroll engraving on the frame, a 50th Anniversary banner on the barrel and black pearl grips with a gold-tone medallion.
North American Arms 50th Black Pearl Overview
Underneath the decoration is the standard 22M: stainless steel, five rounds of 22 WMR, a 1.63 inch barrel, a half-moon front sight and single action operation. NAA does not publish a separate weight for the anniversary model, but the standard 22M is about 6.5 ounces and 5.13 inches long. A matching version with white pearl grips was also made.
Anniversary Details
The engraving covers the frame and cylinder area with scrollwork and the barrel carries a 50th Anniversary banner, details that set it apart from production stainless minis. The black pearl grips have a deep, swirled look and a round medallion. Because it is a limited run, expect it to hold more collector interest than a standard model.
Shoot It or Keep It
It is a fully functional revolver, and many owners do shoot theirs. Firing will leave carbon on the cylinder face and may cause light wear to the engraving and finish over time. If you are buying it as a keepsake, keep it unfired with the box and paperwork, which collectors generally prefer. Either way, record the serial number and keep a few photos for your insurance records.
Handling the 22M
The bird head grip fits two fingers, the hammer must be thumb-cocked for every shot and the spur trigger has no guard. Lower the hammer into a safety notch between chambers when loaded. 22 Magnum from this short barrel is loud and bright, so use hearing protection even outdoors.
Caring for Pearl-Style Grips
Pearl-style grips can scratch more easily than rubber or wood. Avoid harsh solvents and abrasive cloths on them. To clean the revolver, remove the grip panels first or keep cleaner away from them. Store the gun in a padded case or a soft pouch.
Ammunition
Only 22 WMR belongs in this cylinder; the gun ships without a 22 LR conversion cylinder. 22 Magnum costs more per round than 22 LR and supply has been inconsistent in recent years, so if you plan to shoot it, buy a few boxes of a load that runs reliably.
State Laws and Ownership
Check your state and local rules before you buy. Some states require a permit to purchase a handgun, others keep rosters of approved models that may not include NAA mini revolvers, and a few cities ban carry in places that surrounding areas allow. If you plan to carry it, your concealed carry permit rules apply exactly as they would to a full-size handgun.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: North American Arms, Provo, Utah
- Model: 50th Anniversary 22M, NAA-22M-50B
- UPC: 744253004032
- Caliber: 22 Magnum (22 WMR)
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel: 1-5/8 in. (1.63 in.)
- Overall length: about 5.13 in. (standard 22M)
- Weight: about 6.5 oz (standard 22M)
- Action: Single action
- Sights: Half-moon front, fixed
- Grips: Black pearl with medallion
- Finish: Stainless steel with 50th Anniversary scroll engraving
- Edition: Limited
Before You Buy
Federal law requires handgun buyers to be at least 21 years old to purchase from a licensed dealer. This revolver ships to your local FFL, where you fill out the ATF Form 4473 and pass the background check before taking it home.
Who It Is For
The North American Arms 50th Black Pearl is a great fit for NAA collectors, anyone marking a milestone of their own with a gift, and fans of engraved revolvers who want something rarer than a production model.
Buy the North American Arms 50th Black Pearl at MAG5 Firearms
MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the North American Arms 50th 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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