Description
The North American Arms Black Widow 22LR (NAA-BWL) is the 22 Long Rifle version of NAA’s larger Black Widow mini-revolver. It has a 2 inch heavy vent barrel, a five-shot stainless steel cylinder, fixed Marble Arms sights and an oversized black rubber grip, making it far easier to shoot well than the pocket-size minis.
North American Arms Black Widow 22LR Overview
NAA says its Black Widow evolved from the 22 Magnum mini frame, adding a heavy vent barrel, a bull cylinder, oversized black rubber grips with the Black Widow logo and Marble Arms sights. On this model the cylinder is chambered for 22 LR, which keeps recoil and noise low and ammunition cheap. Distributor data lists a 2 inch barrel, 5.88 inch overall length and fixed sights. Lipsey’s weight entry for this UPC reads “2.80” with no unit, which is not usable; NAA lists its Black Widow models at about 8.9 ounces, and this one should be close to that.
Bigger Than a Mini, Still Small
The Black Widow is roughly half again as long as a 1-1/8 inch mini and noticeably heavier, but it still fits a coat pocket or a small belt holster. The extra size goes where it matters: a full grip for three fingers, a longer sight radius and more weight to soak up recoil. Many owners use it as a trail gun or a backup that they can actually shoot accurately at 10 to 15 yards.
Fixed Marble Arms Sights
Instead of the small half-moon blade on standard minis, the Black Widow uses low-profile sights from Marble Arms. The fixed version on this model is snag-resistant and needs no adjustment, though you may need to choose a load whose point of impact matches the sights. An adjustable-sight version exists for owners who want to fine-tune elevation.
Why Choose 22 LR Here
22 Long Rifle is the cheapest centerfire-free way to practice, and in a 2 inch barrel it is pleasant enough for new shooters. If you want more power, NAA also builds the Black Widow in 22 Magnum and in a convertible version with both cylinders. For plinking, small game and training, the 22 LR version is the economical choice.
Handling and Safety
Like every NAA single action, the cylinder is removed to load and unload. After loading, lower the hammer into one of the half notches between chambers so it does not rest on a live rim. The sheathed spur trigger has no guard, so use a holster that covers it fully when carrying.
Maintenance
The vent rib and bull cylinder collect powder residue, especially with dirty rimfire ammunition. Clean the chambers and barrel with a 22 caliber brush, wipe the cylinder face and forcing cone, and oil the base pin lightly. Rubber grips can be cleaned with mild soap and water but should be kept away from harsh solvents.
State Laws and Ownership
Before ordering, confirm that your state allows dealers to transfer this model. Roster states such as California and Massachusetts, permit states such as New Jersey and New York, and cities with their own handgun rules can block or delay a sale. A five-round capacity avoids magazine limits, but carrying the revolver concealed still requires a license in many states, and some locations ban carry entirely.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: North American Arms, Provo, Utah
- Model: Black Widow, NAA-BWL
- UPC: 744253000393
- Caliber: 22 Long Rifle
- Action: Single action
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel: 2 in. heavy vent
- Overall length: 5.88 in.
- Weight: about 8.9 oz (NAA Black Widow line; distributor figure unclear)
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Grip: Oversized black rubber, Black Widow logo
- Sights: Fixed Marble Arms low profile
Before You Buy
Federal law requires handgun purchasers to be at least 21 years old to buy from a licensed dealer. This revolver ships to your local FFL, where you complete the transfer paperwork and background check before taking it home.
Who It Is For
The North American Arms Black Widow 22LR is a great fit for shooters who want an NAA revolver they can shoot comfortably and accurately, hikers and campers looking for a light 22 LR trail gun, and new shooters learning on an inexpensive cartridge.
Buy the North American Arms Black Widow 22LR at MAG5 Firearms
MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the North American Arms Black Widow 22LR 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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