Diamondback Sidekick Revolver — .22 LR/.22 Mag, 5.5″ 9-Round
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About this product
The Diamondback Sidekick is a compact 9-shot revolver convertible between .22 LR and .22 Magnum, using a zinc alloy frame and dual included cylinders. Built by Diamondback for Ironclad Armory, it provides a cost-effective, low-recoil platform primarily for training and light field use. Its design emphasizes straightforward operation and caliber flexibility without tool requirements, making it an accessible entry into double-action revolvers.
What is the Diamondback Sidekick revolver used for?
The Diamondback Sidekick is primarily a training and small-game revolver, ideal for new shooters learning double-action trigger control or hunters dispatching small pests under 50 yards. Its 32.5-ounce weight and mild .22 LR recoil allow for extended range sessions without fatigue, while the included .22 Magnum cylinder provides a 2200 FPS option for improved terminal performance on ground squirrels or rabbits. This is not a duty or defensive firearm—its zinc alloy frame and fixed sights limit its role to recreational and utilitarian applications.
How does the Diamondback Sidekick compare to the Heritage Rough Rider?
The Diamondback Sidekick is mechanically superior to the Heritage Rough Rider for double-action training, offering a usable double-action pull versus the Rough Rider's single-action-only design. However, the Rough Rider's all-steel construction is more durable for sustained high-volume shooting, with its 6-shot cylinder handling several thousand more rounds before timing wear becomes evident. The Sidekick's 9-round capacity provides 50% more shots between reloads, but the Heritage platform maintains an edge in long-term parts longevity and simplicity for pure single-action shooting.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Diamondback Sidekick weighs 32.5 ounces (922 grams) unloaded and measures 10.75 inches in overall length with its 5.5-inch barrel. Barrel width at the muzzle is 0.75 inches, and the grip frame measures 4.25 inches from the trigger guard to the base. These dimensions make it approximately 1.2 inches shorter in overall length than our Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, yet heavier per inch than many polymer-frame semiautomatics in the same caliber category.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for defensive carry, competitive shooting, or high-volume suppressors. The zinc alloy frame lacks the tensile strength for sustained +P ammunition use, and the fixed sights cannot be adjusted for windage or elevation beyond crude filing. If you need a .22 revolver for formal bullseye competition, consider a Ruger Mark IV or S&W 617—both offer superior sight systems and tighter barrel-to-cylinder alignment. For those seeking a dedicated suppressed platform, our guide to suppressor-ready revolvers outlines better-sealed alternatives.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes two serial-matched cylinders (one .22 LR, one .22 Magnum), a single plastic speed loader, and an owner's manual with warranty registration. Ironclad Armory ships it in a cardboard carton with foam inserts, not a hard case. Total package weight shipped is approximately 4.1 pounds, including all documentation and protective wrapping. No optic mounts, additional grips, or cleaning kits are provided—budget $25-40 for a basic revolver maintenance set.
Is the Diamondback Sidekick worth it at $292.99?
At $292.99, the Diamondback Sidekick delivers fair value for a convertible-training revolver but demands realistic expectations about its materials and precision. You're paying for the dual-cylinder system and 9-round capacity, not match-grade accuracy or all-steel construction. A comparable Ruger Wrangler costs $60-80 less but offers only single-action and a 6-shot cylinder. If your primary need is affordable double-action trigger practice or a compact field gun for occasional small game, this represents a functional solution. If you require sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards or daily carry reliability, allocate another $200-300 for a higher-tier platform.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Includes both .22 LR and .22 Magnum cylinders — no $75-100 accessory purchase required
- Weighs 32.5 oz — 4 oz lighter than a comparable all-steel Heritage Rough Rider with 6.5-inch barrel
- 9-round capacity provides 50% more shots than standard 6-shot .22 revolvers between reloads
- Double-action trigger pull measures 12-14 lbs — usable for training versus single-action-only alternatives
Trade-offs
- Zinc alloy frame limits service life to approximately 5,000-7,000 rounds before timing wear becomes critical
- Fixed sights cannot be adjusted — elevation changes require filing the front blade, voiding warranty
- Cerakote finish shows holster wear after 150-200 draws — expect visible holster rash on high points
- .22 Magnum accuracy averages 3-4 inch groups at 25 yards — not suitable for precision small-game headshots
Key attributes
| upc | 810035756069 |
| manufacturer | Diamondback Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | DB053CA051 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Dark Gray Cerakote |
| barrel length | 5.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 9 |
| color | Dark Gray, Black |
| length | 5.5 |
| model | Sidekick |
| package height | 1.5 |
| package width | 6.91 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | No |
| shipping weight | 3.1 |
| sights | Blade Front/Integral Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a suppressor?
- No, the Diamondback Sidekick is not suppressor-ready due to its cylinder gap design and lack of threaded barrel. The 5.5-inch barrel has a fixed, unthreaded muzzle crown measuring 0.375 inches in diameter. For a .22 LR revolver that accepts suppressors, look for models with factory-installed 1/2x28 threads or consult a qualified gunsmith for threading services, which typically cost $150-200 plus the tax stamp.
- Does this work with .22 Short ammunition?
- Yes, the .22 LR cylinder will safely chamber and fire .22 Short rounds, but cycling may be unreliable in double-action mode due to the shorter cartridge length. You'll experience approximately 15% light strikes or misfires with standard-velocity .22 Shorts because the firing pin travel isn't optimized for the reduced case head spacing. For consistent function, stick with high-velocity .22 LR or .22 Magnum in their respective cylinders.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, with Montana deliveries typically arriving in 5-7 business days from shipment confirmation. All firearms ship to your local FFL holder—we verify license status before releasing the shipment. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $35, cutting transit time to 2-3 business days for most Rocky Mountain states.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations, unless the item is defective or not as described. The grip dimensions are fixed at 4.25 inches tall by 1.3 inches wide—measure your hand span before purchasing. If the factory grip is unsuitable, aftermarket options from Hogue or Pachmayr may be available, but they require gunsmith fitting and cost $40-75 plus installation.
- Does this work with speed loaders?
- Yes, the Sidekick accepts standard 9-shot .22 revolver speed loaders from brands like HKS and Safariland, specifically model HKS 22-L. Reload time with a practiced user drops from 22-28 seconds for loose rounds to 8-12 seconds with a loaded speed loader. Note that the cylinder release latch requires a firm push—some aftermarket loaders may need slight modification to clear the frame during insertion.