NAA Ranger II 22 WMR 2.5″ 5-Shot Stainless Revolver
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.5 oz unloaded — over 50% lighter than most compact steel-frame revolvers.
- Stainless steel frame and cylinder resist corrosion far better than carbon steel models.
- 5-inch overall length allows concealment in spaces unsuitable for larger firearms.
- Break-open action with star ejector clears all 5 spent cases in roughly 3 seconds.
Trade-offs
- Single-action only requires manually cocking the hammer for every shot, slowing follow-up shots.
- Fixed bead front sight offers minimal precision for targets beyond 7 yards.
- Rosewood boot grips provide minimal purchase; small-handed shooters may still find them slick.
- No included lockable hard case — storage and transport require a separate purchase.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The North American Arms Ranger II 22 WMR 2.5'' 5-Shot Stainless Revolver is a top-break, single-action mini-revolver chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum, engineered for discreet personal carry and close-quarters utility. It represents a specific evolution within the NAA product line, focusing on a stainless steel construction and a historically styled break-open action. This model prioritizes mechanical simplicity and a minimal footprint over high capacity or long-range precision.
What is the North American Arms Ranger II used for?
The Ranger II is engineered for two specific roles: as a deeply concealable, mechanical last-resort defensive firearm and as a compact utility tool for close-range pest control. Its 2.5-inch barrel and 5-round cylinder make it legal in many jurisdictions where larger handguns are restricted. It serves shooters who prioritize an absolute minimum footprint and the reliable mechanical action of a single-action revolver over semi-automatic capacity or rapid reloading.
How does the North American Arms Ranger II compare to a derringer-style pistol?
The Ranger II provides a more mechanically robust and safer handling experience than most derringers, such as those from Bond Arms. Where a modern derringer uses a break-open action, the Ranger II adds a fully enclosed revolving cylinder, which isolates each chamber and offers a more positive, consistent trigger pull. The Ranger II is superior for its fully supported chamber design and enclosed hammer, reducing the risk of an accidental discharge from a snagged hammer spur.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Ranger II weighs 7.5 ounces unloaded and measures 5 inches in overall length. Its cylinder is 1.25 inches in diameter, and its profile thickness is 0.875 inches at the grip frame. These specific dimensions result in a package that's approximately 30% smaller in volume than a compact .380 semi-automatic like the Ruger LCP, making it uniquely suited for pocket or ankle carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for anyone seeking a primary defensive firearm for home defense or as a duty weapon. It is a poor choice for new shooters learning marksmanship fundamentals, as its 2.5-inch barrel and rudimentary fixed sights make it challenging to shoot accurately beyond 7 yards. Anyone requiring more than five rounds without reloading, or a faster action than single-action, should look at compact semi-automatics like the models in our Stevens 334 rifle series for a more capable platform.
What's in the box?
The firearm ships with the revolver, one set of rosewood boot grips, and a zip-up Cordura storage pouch. Unlike many competitors, NAA does not include a hard plastic lockable case, a cleaning rod, or spare grips. The minimalist packaging reflects the product's utilitarian design philosophy; you receive the core mechanical instrument and its most basic protective covering.
Is the North American Arms Ranger II worth it at $517.99?
At $517.99, the Ranger II's value is tied directly to its specialized niche and stainless steel construction. For that price, you are paying for precision machining of a very small, high-tolerance stainless steel frame and cylinder assembly. You are not paying for accessories or modern ergonomics. If your requirement is the absolute smallest, most mechanically simple, and most durable stainless steel .22 WMR revolver available, the price is justified. For a more general-purpose firearm at a similar price point, consider a Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun.
Key attributes
| upc | 744253003288 |
| manufacturer | North American Arms |
| manufacturer part number | NAA-22M-R250 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 2.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 10.2000 |
| model | Ranger II |
| package height | 2.7 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Notched Cylinder |
| shipping weight | 2.6 |
| sights | Bead Front |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the .22 WMR cylinder compatible with .22 Long Rifle ammunition?
- No, the Ranger II's cylinder is chambered and headspaced exclusively for the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire cartridge. Firing .22 Long Rifle (LR) in this chamber is dangerous and can cause case failures and excessive pressure. You must use .22 WMR ammunition only.
- Does it fit in a standard pocket holster designed for a j-frame?
- No, its dimensions are significantly smaller. The Ranger II requires a holster specifically designed for NAA mini-revolvers. Its 5-inch overall length and sub-1-inch width mean most J-frame holsters will be too large, allowing the firearm to shift excessively.
- How long does shipping to an FFL typically take?
- For in-stock items, processing and shipment to your chosen FFL dealer typically occurs within 3-5 business days after order verification. The final delivery transit time depends on the carrier and location, usually adding 2-7 additional business days.
- Can I return it if I don't like the trigger pull?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns or exchanges on firearms due to personal preference, including trigger feel, which is a function of the single-action design. Returns are only processed for items that are defective or not as described from the factory.
- Does this work with a Crimson Trace LaserGrip?
- No, Crimson Trace does not manufacture a LaserGrip for the NAA Ranger II frame. The rosewood boot grips are not designed for aftermarket electronic modules. Your sighting options are limited to the factory-fixed bead front sight.