North American Arms Recluse 2in .22 WMR 5-Round Stainless
About this product
The North American Arms Recluse 2in .22 WMR 5-Round Stainless is a single-action-only, stainless steel pocket revolver designed for discreet carry and immediate close-quarters deployment. As a firearms specialist focused on Title II and NFA compliance, I evaluate tools like this for their mechanical precision within specific regulatory and practical constraints. This revolver occupies a niche between novelty firearms and practical defensive tools, with design choices that reflect its intended role.
What is the North American Arms Recluse used for?
The Recluse is used for discreet, backup personal protection in legally permissible jurisdictions, not as a primary defensive or target firearm. Its 5-round .22 WMR capacity and 2-inch barrel make it effective only at conversational distances—think under 7 yards—where its single-action trigger allows for deliberate, aimed fire if time permits. This is a get-off-me gun, a final option when concealment is paramount and engagement distance is measured in feet, not yards, suitable for situations where a hunting rifle or full-sized handgun would be impossible to carry.
How does the North American Arms Recluse compare to a Ruger LCR .22 Magnum?
The Recluse is mechanically simpler and more compact, but the Ruger LCR in .22 Magnum is a more capable and versatile defensive tool. The Ruger LCR features a double-action-only trigger, a 1.87-inch barrel (comparable), but holds 8 rounds, offering 60% more capacity than the Recluse's 5-round cylinder. The LCR's polymer frame also makes it approximately 3-4 ounces lighter, reducing carry weight significantly for all-day comfort, though the Recluse offers superior corrosion resistance with its all-stainless construction.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 14.8 ounces unloaded and measures 5.1 inches in overall length with a cylinder width of 1.3 inches. Its 2-inch barrel keeps the profile minimal, and the 5.1-inch length is critical—this keeps it under the typical threshold that many jurisdictions use to define "concealable" firearms, a key compliance point. The width is dictated by the five-round stainless swing-out cylinder, which is 0.2 inches narrower than a typical six-shot .38 Special cylinder, aiding concealment.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for new shooters, recreational plinkers, or anyone seeking a primary home-defense or hunting sidearm. The single-action-only mechanism requires manually cocking the hammer for each shot, a skill that degrades under stress and is impractical for rapid engagement. The .22 WMR, while potent from a short barrel, lacks the consistent terminal performance of larger calibers like .38 Special or 9mm. If your needs involve clay shooting or longer-range work, a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U would be a far more appropriate tool.
What's in the box?
The revolver ships with a single 5-round stainless steel cylinder, a padded plastic hard case, a basic cable lock, and the owner's manual with NAA's warranty information. You will not find speed loaders, additional grips, or a cleaning kit—this is a bare-bones package reflecting the tool's purpose. The manual includes specific warnings about the use of .22 WMR ammunition, which generates higher pressures than .22 LR, a critical distinction for safety.
Is the North American Arms Recluse worth it at $485.99?
At $485.99, the Recluse is worth it only for a very specific user who prioritizes maximum stainless steel durability and minimalist size above all other considerations. You are paying for milled stainless construction and a unique, ultra-compact swing-out cylinder design that is more complex and costly to manufacture than a simple break-top. For most shooters seeking a .22 Magnum revolver for carry, a polymer-framed, higher-capacity double-action model around the same price point offers better value and utility.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- All-matte stainless steel construction provides complete corrosion resistance for belt or pocket carry in all conditions.
- Weighs 14.8 oz unloaded — nearly 2 oz lighter than a comparable all-steel S&W Model 43C in .22 LR.
- 5-round swing-out cylinder allows for safer unloading than a fixed-cylinder design, without needing a loading gate.
- 2-inch barrel and 5.1-inch overall length meet most legal definitions for a concealable firearm, simplifying compliance checks.
Trade-offs
- Single-action-only (SAO) mechanism requires manual hammer cocking for every shot, slowing follow-up shots significantly under stress.
- .22 WMR ammunition averages $0.35-$0.50 per round — 70% more expensive than .22 LR for practice, increasing training cost.
- Adjustable sights are minimal and difficult to acquire quickly in low light due to the short sight radius.
- No option for aftermarket grip panels; you are limited to the factory oversized rubber grip for ergonomics.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 744253004025 |
| manufacturer | North American Arms |
| manufacturer part number | NAA-RECLUSE |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| model | Recluse |
| product type | Single Action Only |
| sights | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Long Rifle ammunition?
- No, the Recluse is chambered specifically for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) and should not fire .22 Long Rifle (LR) cartridges. The .22 WMR case is longer and operates at significantly higher pressure—approximately 24,000 PSI versus 14,000 PSI for .22 LR. Firing .22 LR in this chamber can cause dangerous pressure issues and is a direct violation of the manufacturer's safety warnings.
- Does it fit in a standard pocket holster?
- Yes, its dimensions (5.1" L x 1.3" W) allow it to fit most small-frame revolver pocket holsters designed for the 2-inch barrel category. I recommend a dedicated holster from brands like DeSantis or Sticky Holsters that provides a consistent trigger guard cover. The oversized rubber grip provides purchase but can slightly increase print-through in thin pants, so holster selection is critical for optimal concealment.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearm orders within 2 business days, with an additional 3-5 business days for carrier transit to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. The total timeline from order to FLL notification is typically 5-7 business days, not including the time required for your FFL to conduct the mandatory NICS background check before transfer. Always contact your FFL for their specific transfer procedures and fees before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, all firearm sales are final once the transfer is completed at your FFL due to federal regulations surrounding serialized items. You can inspect the firearm at your FFL before completing the background check and paperwork—if you reject it at that point, it can be returned to Ironclad Armory, but you will forfeit any shipping fees. It is imperative to handle a similar model beforehand or confirm grip dimensions if hand fit is a primary concern.
- Does this work with a concealed carry permit?
- Yes, where legally permitted, it qualifies as a concealable firearm and requires a valid state-issued concealed carry weapons (CCW) permit or equivalent for lawful concealed carry. You must comply with all state and local laws regarding caliber restrictions, capacity (5 rounds is legal in most jurisdictions), and approved firearm rosters. I always advise consulting with a local firearms attorney or your issuing agency to confirm compliance before carrying any firearm.