North American Arms Sidewinder SWC-4 Convertible Revolver – Proven 22 Mag/22 LR 4 in.

Description

The North American Arms Sidewinder SWC-4 is the long-barrel convertible Sidewinder. Its 4 inch barrel, swing-out cylinder and spare 22 LR cylinder make it a capable little trail gun and a lot of fun at the range.

North American Arms Sidewinder SWC-4 Overview

This is NAA model NAA-SWC-4 (UPC 744253002687). Distributor data lists a 4 inch barrel, about 7.75 inches overall and roughly 7.7 ounces, stainless steel, wood grips and fixed sights. Store listings sometimes show the model as NAA-SWLC; the UPC confirms it as the 4 inch convertible.

Swing-Out Loading

The Sidewinder SWC-4 keeps NAA’s single-action trigger but replaces the remove-the-cylinder routine with a swing-out cylinder: release the cylinder and it pivots out to the side of the frame, so you can load and unload without taking parts off the gun. It is still a single-action revolver, so the hammer must be cocked for every shot, and reloading is one cartridge at a time. NAA publishes dedicated Sidewinder cylinder instructions; read them before your first range trip.

What the 4 Inch Barrel Adds

Four inches of barrel give 22 WMR more velocity and less fireball than the pocket models, and the longer sight radius makes aimed shots easier. It is still a light revolver, so recoil is mild with either cylinder. It is too long for most pockets; plan on a belt holster or a pack.

Two Cylinders

The Sidewinder SWC-4 ships with two cylinders. The 22 WMR cylinder is for carry and serious use, and the 22 Long Rifle cylinder lets you practice for far less money with quieter, milder ammunition. Swap cylinders only with the gun unloaded, never mix cartridges between them, and remember that 22 LR from a barrel this short is a practice and plinking load. Both kinds of ammunition can be hard to find at times, so stock up when your preferred loads are available.

Living With a Sidewinder

Be realistic about what a tiny rimfire revolver does well. The Sidewinder SWC-4 is loud for its size, flash is heavy in low light, and sights are minimal, so practical accuracy is measured in a few yards for most shooters. Rimfire ignition is less certain than centerfire, which is one more reason to test your carry ammunition. Long-barrel mini-revolvers have few off-the-shelf holster options, so check fit before you buy one.

Range Fun and Practical Use

With the 22 LR cylinder installed, this is an inexpensive way to spend an afternoon knocking over tin cans. Switch to 22 WMR for pests and small game where legal. If you only want magnum performance, the SW-4 is the same gun without the spare cylinder.

State Laws and Ownership

Pennsylvania buyers complete a standard handgun transfer with a PICS check at the receiving dealer, and carrying concealed outside your home or vehicle generally requires a License to Carry Firearms. Some states keep approved-handgun rosters (California and Massachusetts are the best-known examples) and may not allow the NAA Sidewinder SWC-4; New York, New Jersey and several cities add permit steps of their own. Check your state and local rules before ordering, because we cannot transfer a handgun into a jurisdiction that prohibits it.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: North American Arms (Provo, Utah)
• Model: NAA-SWC-4
• UPC: 744253002687
• Caliber: 22 WMR with 22 LR conversion cylinder
• Capacity: 5 rounds
• Action: Single action, swing-out cylinder
• Barrel: 4 in.
• Overall length: about 7.75 in.
• Weight: about 7.7 oz (distributor data)
• Sights: fixed
• Grips: wood
• Finish: stainless steel

Before You Buy

Federal law requires handgun buyers to be at least 21 years old when purchasing from a licensed dealer, and this NAA Sidewinder SWC-4 ships only to a valid FFL, where you will complete ATF Form 4473 and a background check before pickup. Inspect the revolver at transfer, read North American Arms’ owner’s manual before loading it, and confirm local carry rules before you put it in a pocket.

Who It Is For

The North American Arms Sidewinder SWC-4 is a great fit for campers, hikers and plinkers who want a light, accurate convertible 22 revolver with easy loading.

Buy the North American Arms Sidewinder SWC-4 at MAG5 Firearms

MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the North American Arms Sidewinder SWC-4 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.