Diamondback Sidekick Revolver .22LR/.22WMR 5.5in 9rd
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual cylinders included — saves $75-100 versus competitors selling them separately
- Swing-out cylinder with simultaneous ejection — reloads 45 seconds faster than rod-ejection single-actions
- Weighs 32.5 oz — 4 ounces heavier than Heritage Rough Rider for better off-hand balance
Trade-offs
- Zinc-alloy frame — not suitable for sustained high-volume .22 WMR or hyper-velocity ammo
- Fixed front sight blade — obstructs most standard suppressor mounting without modification
- Proprietary frame dimensions — requires a specific holster, incompatible with common S&W K-frame models
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Diamondback Sidekick is a convertible double/single-action revolver chambered in both .22 Long Rifle and .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, shipped with two dedicated cylinders for each cartridge. This configuration offers practical versatility in a platform typically limited to one rimfire caliber, targeting recreational shooters and small-game hunters who value adaptability over ultimate precision. Its 5.5-inch barrel and 9-round capacity stem from a zinc-alloy frame, positioning it as a functional utility firearm rather than a match-grade or heavy-duty tool.
What is the Diamondback Sidekick used for?
The Sidekick is used for low-cost rimfire practice, small-game hunting, and introducing new shooters to revolver mechanics. Its dual-caliber capability allows a shooter to run inexpensive .22 LR for training before switching to the more potent .22 WMR cylinder for varmints, a process requiring a 15-second cylinder swap using the patented swing-out arm. The 32.5-ounce weight and straightforward fixed sights keep the platform simple for field use, though the zinc-alloy frame construction limits its suitability for sustained high-volume fire compared to our steel-framed Stevens 334 bolt-action rifles.
How does the Diamondback Sidekick compare to the Ruger Wrangler?
The Sidekick is a more mechanically versatile and capable field tool than the single-action-only Ruger Wrangler, which retails for roughly $50 less. While the Wrangler offers classic single-action operation and a robust steel frame, the Sidekick's swing-out cylinder and double-action capability allow for faster reloading and follow-up shots; the Sidekick ejects all nine spent casings simultaneously versus the Wrangler's one-at-a-time rod ejection, cutting reload time by an average of 45 seconds per cylinder. The Sidekick is better for shooters prioritizing modern functionality and caliber interchangeability, while the Wrangler suits those seeking traditional operation and a simpler mechanical profile.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Sidekick weighs 32.5 ounces unloaded, or approximately 36 ounces loaded with nine .22 WMR rounds. Its overall length is 10.25 inches from muzzle to the base of the grip, with a barrel length of 5.5 inches and a cylinder diameter of 1.48 inches. These dimensions make it slightly longer and 4 ounces heavier than the comparable Heritage Rough Rider, resulting in marginally better balance for off-hand shooting at the 25-yard line.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for precision competitors, heavy-volume suppressors hosts, or shooters requiring maximum durability under extreme conditions. The zinc-alloy frame, while corrosion-resistant due to its Midnight Bronze Cerakote, lacks the tensile strength of forged steel for extended high-pressure .22 WMR use and is not rated for a steady diet of hyper-velocity ammunition. For dedicated, high-round-count clay target shooting, a platform like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20-gauge provides more appropriate durability.
What's in the box?
The box includes the revolver pre-installed with the .22 LR cylinder, a separate .22 WMR cylinder, a polymer speedloader compatible with both cylinder types, a cable lock, owner's manual, and factory test target. Unlike many budget revolvers, it ships with both cylinders as standard—no separate purchase required—adding immediate value for the $292.99 price point.
Is the Diamondback Sidekick worth it at $292.99?
At $292.99, the Sidekick offers quantifiable value for a shooter who genuinely needs dual-caliber capability and a swing-out cylinder in a rimfire revolver. The inclusion of both cylinders represents a $75-100 value over competitors that sell them separately, while the double-action trigger provides a training analog for more serious centerfire defensive revolvers. If your use case is strictly single-action plinking with .22 LR, the $240 Ruger Wrangler is a more economical choice, but for a versatile field kit gun, the Sidekick's feature set justifies its price within a $50 margin.
Key attributes
| upc | 810035756076 |
| manufacturer | Diamondback Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | DB053CA071 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Midnight Bronze Cerakote |
| barrel length | 5.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 9 |
| color | Midnight Bronze |
| length | 5.5 |
| magazine included | 2 x 9-Round |
| model | Sidekick |
| package height | 6.5 |
| package width | 1.5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Yes |
| shipping weight | 3.05 |
| sights | Blade Front/Integral Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Sidekick compatible with a suppressor?
- The Sidekick is technically compatible with a .22 caliber suppressor, but it is not an ideal host. The fixed front sight blade will obstruct most standard suppressor mounting, requiring a tall aftermarket sight or an optic. Furthermore, the zinc-alloy frame and barrel threading (if present from the factory—this model typically is not threaded) are not designed for the sustained backpressure and added weight of a suppressor like the SilencerCo Sparrow.
- Does it fit standard S&W K-frame holsters?
- No, the Sidekick's 1.48-inch cylinder diameter and overall frame dimensions differ from the S&W K-frame, resulting in a poor fit in most dedicated K-frame holsters. For secure retention, you will need a holster specifically molded for the Diamondback Sidekick or a universal nylon holster designed for medium-frame revolvers with a 5-6 inch barrel.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipping to your chosen FFL dealer typically takes 3-7 business days from the warehouse departure, depending on your location. All firearms shipped by Ironclad Armory require a valid FFL dealer on file before processing, which adds 1-2 business days for verification. Expedited shipping is not available for firearms due to carrier regulations.
- Can I return it if it has a mechanical issue?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for mechanical defects within 30 days of purchase, provided the firearm is unfired and in its original packaging. For issues discovered after firing, you must contact Diamondback Firearms directly for warranty service, which typically involves a 4-6 week turnaround for evaluation and repair at their factory.
- Does this work with .22 Short or .22 CB Cap ammunition?
- The Sidekick will fire .22 Short and .22 CB Cap rounds in the .22 Long Rifle cylinder, but they may not cycle the double-action mechanism reliably due to lower power. For consistent double-action operation, you must use standard or high-velocity .22 LR rounds with a minimum velocity of 1,050 feet per second.