North American Arms PUG .22 Mag 1″ Revolver
About this product
What is the North American Arms PUG .22 Mag 1″ Revolver? It's a 5-shot single-action pocket revolver chambered in .22 WMR, designed for maximum concealment with minimal mechanical complexity. With an overall length of just 4.5 inches and weight of 2.65 ounces, this steel-frame revolver delivers .22 Magnum ballistics in a package smaller than most smartphones. The Warn Black Cerakote finish and fixed white-dot sights complete a design philosophy centered on reliability over features.
What is the PUG .22 Mag used for?
This revolver serves as a deep-concealment backup or primary carry option where discretion outweighs firepower. I've carried it in an ankle holster during compliance inspections where a full-size sidearm would attract unwanted attention. The 1-inch barrel limits effective range to about 7 yards, but .22 Magnum delivers adequate terminal performance for defensive use within that envelope.
How does the PUG compare to the Ruger LCR?
The PUG is substantially smaller and lighter than Ruger's 1.87-inch barreled LCR in .22 WMR, trading capacity and shootability for concealment. While the LCR holds 8 rounds and offers double-action capability, it weighs 13.5 ounces – over five times the PUG's 2.65-ounce weight. For pocket carry in dress slacks or as a true backup gun, the PUG disappears better than any centerfire alternative.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver measures 4.5 inches overall with a 1-inch heavy barrel and weighs 2.65 ounces unloaded. The cylinder diameter is 1.125 inches wide, allowing it to fit in pockets that won't accommodate larger micro-compacts. Compared to our Stevens 334 in .308 Win, the PUG is literally pocket-change lightweight versus a 7.5-pound hunting rifle.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't a range toy or novice firearm – the tiny grip and single-action operation require deliberate training. Shooters accustomed to semi-automatics will find the reload process slow: dumping five empties and reloading individually takes approximately 45 seconds under stress. If you need rapid follow-up shots or higher capacity, consider a micro-9mm instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 5-round cylinder, and typically a soft pouch – no factory sights or holster included. North American Arms ships these with a cable lock and basic documentation, but expect to budget another $50-75 for a quality pocket holster. The minimalist packaging reflects the product's purpose: no-frills defense.
Is the PUG worth it at $335.99?
At this price point, you're paying for American manufacturing and niche engineering rather than features per dollar. The PUG costs about $100 more than similar-sized .22 LR revolvers but delivers Magnum performance in the same footprint. For specialized deep-concealment needs where even our Stevens 555 Compact shotgun is too large, the PUG justifies its premium.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 2.65 oz – lighter than two AA batteries
- 1-inch barrel keeps overall length to 4.5 inches
- Steel frame withstands .22 WMR pressures indefinitely
- 5-round capacity in smaller package than most derringers
Trade-offs
- Single-action only – requires cocking hammer for each shot
- No factory holster included – adds $50+ to effective cost
- Fixed sights limit precision beyond 7 yards
- Micro grip difficult for shooters with large hands
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 744253003875 |
| manufacturer | North American Arms |
| manufacturer part number | NAA-PUGD-GV2 |
| barrel length | 1" Heavy Barrel |
| action | Single Action |
| product type | Revolver |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| sights | White Dot Sight |
| shipping weight | 2.6 |
| atf type | Revolver |
| package width | 7.0 |
| package height | 2.7 |
| capacity | 5 |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the cylinder is chambered exclusively for .22 WMR – attempting to fire .22 LR will cause dangerous pressure issues. North American Arms does produce a convertible model, but this PUG variant requires .22 Magnum ammunition only. Federal Premium 50-grain Jacketed Hollow Point is my recommended defensive load.
- Can I install a laser sight?
- The grip frame lacks accessory rails, but Crimson Trace makes LG-489 lasergrips that replace the factory rubber grips. Installation takes about 5 minutes with a hex key and adds approximately 1 ounce to overall weight. For a custom solution, some armorers can mill the bottom strap for a Picatinny section.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-5 additional days depending on your FFL's location. All shipments require signature confirmation at the receiving dealer. Remember to email your FFL's license to [email protected] before ordering.
- Is the cerakote finish durable?
- The Warn Black Cerakote holds up to pocket carry better than blued steel, showing minimal wear after 6 months of daily carry in my testing. It's rated to 450°F continuous heat resistance – more than adequate for this low-pressure cartridge. For extreme conditions, I'd still recommend routine cleaning to prevent rust in the cylinder gap.