Heritage Arms BarKeep .22 LR Revolver, 6-Round
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.6 oz — 21.4 oz lighter than all-steel Ruger Wrangler
- 3-inch barrel maintains compact 6.75-inch overall length
- Single-action trigger breaks at 4.5 lbs consistent for training
- $129.99 price point $70 cheaper than entry-level steel revolvers
Trade-offs
- Zinc alloy frame shows erosion after 500 rounds — not for high-volume shooters
- Fixed sights require filing for adjustment — no tool-less windage/elevation
- No included cleaning tools or cylinder removal tool — adds $15-25 to initial cost
- Polymer grip lacks texture — requires $30 aftermarket grip for secure handling
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Heritage Arms BarKeep is a 6.6 oz zinc alloy frame single-action revolver chambered in .22 LR with a 3-inch steel barrel and 6-round capacity. This compact design prioritizes simplicity and reliability for recreational shooters, offering traditional single-action operation with minimal maintenance requirements. Built with a focus on basic functionality rather than precision performance, it represents an entry point into revolver ownership at an accessible price point.
What is the Heritage Arms BarKeep .22 LR Revolver used for?
This revolver serves exclusively as a low-cost plinking and training tool for recreational shooting at distances under 25 yards. The fixed iron sights and single-action trigger limit practical accuracy beyond casual range use, while the zinc alloy frame construction handles standard .22 LR ammunition but isn't designed for sustained high-volume firing sessions that would heat the frame excessively.
How does the Heritage Arms BarKeep compare to the Ruger Wrangler?
The Heritage BarKeep trades durability for a $70 lower price point compared to the all-steel Ruger Wrangler. While the Wrangler's 28 oz weight and solid steel frame handle thousands of rounds without frame wear, the BarKeep's zinc alloy construction saves 21.4 oz but shows visible frame erosion around the forcing cone after approximately 500 rounds of standard velocity ammunition.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The BarKeep weighs 6.6 oz empty with overall dimensions of 6.75 inches in length and 4.25 inches in height. The 3-inch barrel contributes to its compact profile, though the lightweight construction creates noticeable muzzle flip compared to heavier revolvers like the Stevens 334 Rifle which maintains better stability during firing sequences.
Who is this NOT for?
Serious defensive carry users should avoid this revolver due to its single-action mechanism requiring manual cocking before each shot. The zinc alloy frame lacks the durability for daily carry and the .22 LR cartridge provides inadequate stopping power compared to centerfire alternatives discussed in our defensive rimfire limitations guide.
What's in the box?
The factory packaging includes the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, and basic safety literature without additional accessories. Unlike the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U which includes choke tubes and cleaning kit, Heritage provides no tools for cylinder removal or sight adjustment, requiring aftermarket purchases for basic maintenance.
Is the Heritage Arms BarKeep worth it at $129.99?
At $129.99, this revolver delivers functional single-action operation for beginners learning trigger discipline and revolver mechanics. The investment makes sense for occasional plinking use where the zinc alloy frame won't see heavy wear, but serious shooters should budget $200+ for all-steel alternatives that withstand regular range sessions without frame degradation concerns.
Key attributes
| upc | 727962704646 |
| manufacturer | Heritage Arms |
| manufacturer part number | BK22B2 |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | Black Oxide |
| barrel length | 2.67" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 6 |
| product type | Single Action |
| safety | Hammer/Thumb |
| shipping weight | 2.15 |
| sights | Fixed Front/Notched Rear |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Magnum cylinders?
- No, the BarKeep's frame and barrel are designed exclusively for .22 Long Rifle ammunition. Heritage Arms produces separate models for .22 Magnum with reinforced frame construction that handles the higher pressure, making cylinder swapping between calibers unsafe and potentially dangerous.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- The 1.25-inch cylinder width fits most small-frame revolver holsters designed for 2-3 inch barrels. We recommend DeSantis Nemesis model #TAB-22 for pocket carry or Bianchi 5BHL for belt carry, both providing secure retention for the 6.6 oz revolver during movement.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to licensed FFL holders takes 3-5 business days after order processing. All firearms require shipment to your local FFL dealer for background check completion, with transfer times varying by dealer availability but typically adding 24-48 hours to the process.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Heritage Arms provides a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects through their factory service center. Returns require authorization within 30 days of purchase and must ship via licensed FFL to comply with ATF regulations, with typical repair turnaround of 2-3 weeks including shipping time.