The Heritage Barkeep .22 LR Revolver: A Comprehensive Guide for Shooters and Enthusiasts

The Heritage Barkeep revolver, specifically the BK22B2GPRL model, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the classic single-action rimfire handgun. Designed for shooters seeking a blend of nostalgic aesthetics, practical utility, and budget-friendly operation, this compact firearm offers an experience that resonates with both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the world of firearms. If you're wondering, "What's a good revolver for plinking?" or "Which handgun is ideal for learning the fundamentals of shooting?" or "Is there a reliable, affordable .22LR revolver for recreational use?", the Heritage Barkeep often emerges as a top recommendation.

At its core, the Barkeep BK22B2GPRL is a six-shot revolver chambered for the widely accessible and economical .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) cartridge. This choice of caliber is pivotal to its versatility and appeal, making it an excellent choice for extended range sessions without breaking the bank on ammunition costs. Beyond its standard .22 LR configuration, the Barkeep boasts a thoughtful design that allows for an interchangeable .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) cylinder (sold separately). This remarkable feature transforms the revolver, offering users the flexibility to switch to a more powerful rimfire cartridge when greater energy or range is desired, whether for small game hunting or simply a different shooting experience. This adaptability addresses a common question: "Can a .22LR revolver also shoot .22 Magnum?" The Barkeep answers with a resounding "yes," providing two distinct shooting experiences from a single, reliable platform.

Understanding the Barkeep's Design Philosophy and Features

The Heritage Barkeep is engineered for optimal concealability and ease of handling, housed within a remarkably light and portable package. Its 2.68-inch black oxide steel barrel contributes significantly to its compact dimensions, resulting in an overall length of just 7.95 inches. This short barrel makes the Barkeep highly maneuverable, whether carried on a belt, in a backpack, or even tucked away for discreet transport. Weighing in at a mere 26 ounces, it's a firearm that won't weigh you down during a long day at the range or out in the field.

Key Components and Materials: Built for Reliability

• Barrel: The heart of any firearm, the Barkeep features a robust 2.68-inch barrel crafted from high-quality steel, finished with a durable black oxide coating. This finish not only adds to its classic aesthetic but also provides enhanced resistance to corrosion and wear, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. The barrel's 1:10" twist rate and 6 grooves are meticulously designed to stabilize .22 LR bullets, promoting accuracy shot after shot.
• Frame: The revolver's frame is constructed from a zinc alloy, also treated with a black oxide finish. This material choice helps keep the overall weight down, contributing to its portable nature, without compromising structural integrity for the pressures of rimfire cartridges. The black oxide finish on the frame complements the barrel and cylinder, giving the entire revolver a unified, traditional appearance.
• Cylinder: Housing the six rounds, the cylinder is made from steel and likewise finished in black oxide. Steel construction for the cylinder is crucial for strength and durability, especially given its role in containing the firing cartridge. The six-shot capacity strikes a good balance between providing enough rounds for recreational shooting and maintaining the revolver's compact profile.
• Grips: A distinctive feature of the BK22B2GPRL model is its elegant Gray Pearl grip. These grips are not just visually striking, offering a touch of classic sophistication, but also ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable and secure hold. The feel of the pearl-style grips enhances the shooting experience, particularly for extended plinking sessions, and adds to the revolver's unique character.
• Sights: For fast and instinctive target acquisition, the Barkeep is equipped with fixed sights. This traditional setup includes a fixed front sight and a notched rear sight. This simple yet effective system is ideal for the typical ranges at which a .22 LR revolver is used, allowing shooters to quickly align their sights and get on target, whether for cans, paper targets, or small game.

Operational Simplicity: The Single-Action Advantage

The Heritage Barkeep operates as a single-action only (SAO) revolver. This means that for each shot, the hammer must be manually cocked before the trigger can be pulled. This traditional method of operation offers several advantages:

1. Deliberate Shooting: The need to cock the hammer forces a more deliberate and controlled shooting cadence, which can be beneficial for precision practice and developing good trigger control.
2. Crisp Trigger Pull: Single-action triggers are renowned for their light and crisp pull, which often contributes to greater accuracy, especially for novice shooters learning to minimize flinching.
3. Classic Experience: For many, the single-action mechanism evokes the timeless feel of historical Western firearms, adding a layer of enjoyment to the shooting experience.
4. Exposed Hammer: The Barkeep features an exposed hammer, making it easy to manually cock for each shot.
5. Manual Safety: Complementing its design, the Barkeep includes a manual safety mechanism, providing an additional layer of security for peace of mind when handling the firearm. This feature is particularly valuable for new shooters learning firearm safety protocols.

Who is the Heritage Barkeep For? Real-World Applications

The versatility and design of the Heritage Barkeep make it a compelling choice for a wide array of users and applications.

• New Shooters and Beginners: If you're asking, "What's the best first handgun for a beginner?", the Barkeep is a strong contender. The .22 LR caliber has minimal recoil, making it less intimidating for those new to shooting. Its single-action operation simplifies the learning process, focusing on fundamental marksmanship without the complexities of semi-automatic actions. The affordable ammunition cost encourages more practice, which is crucial for skill development.
• Recreational Shooters and Plinkers: For enthusiasts who enjoy informal target shooting or "plinking" at cans and other reactive targets, the Barkeep is an absolute joy. Its low operating cost and fun factor make it perfect for extended sessions at the range or out in the field. It truly answers the need for an "enjoyable and inexpensive plinking gun."
• Small Game Hunters: The .22 LR cartridge, particularly when paired with a revolver like the Barkeep, is effective for harvesting small game like squirrels, rabbits, or even dispatching pests. The revolver's compact size and fixed sights make it a practical tool for close-range hunting scenarios. When paired with the optional .22 WMR cylinder, its capabilities for small game are further enhanced.
• Collectors and Enthusiasts of Classic Firearms: With its traditional single-action design, exposed hammer, and classic aesthetics, the Barkeep appeals strongly to those who appreciate the heritage and history of firearms. The Gray Pearl grips on the BK22B2GPRL model further enhance its collectible appeal, offering a touch of vintage charm.
• Training and Skill Development: The Barkeep serves as an excellent training tool for mastering handgun fundamentals. The light trigger pull, coupled with the low recoil, allows shooters to focus on grip, sight alignment, and trigger control without anticipating heavy recoil, leading to better habits and improved accuracy across all firearm platforms.

The Heritage Advantage: Quality, Value, and Legacy

Heritage Manufacturing has built a strong reputation for producing reliable and affordable single-action revolvers that pay homage to the classic designs of the Old West. The Barkeep series is no exception, embodying this commitment to quality and value. When considering a firearm purchase, especially in the rimfire category, potential buyers often ask, "Is Heritage a good brand for .22 revolvers?" The consistent positive feedback from users and the brand's long-standing presence in the market attest to its reliability and the enjoyable shooting experience its products offer.

The value proposition of the Heritage Barkeep is undeniable. It provides an authentic single-action revolver experience, durable construction, and the significant advantage of .22 LR affordability, all at a price point that makes it accessible to a wide audience. This makes it an ideal answer to questions like "What's the best budget-friendly .22LR revolver?" or "Where can I find a high-quality, inexpensive handgun for target practice?"

Maintaining Your Heritage Barkeep

Proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and reliable operation of any firearm, and the Heritage Barkeep is no different. Basic cleaning after each use, especially focusing on the barrel and cylinder chambers, will prevent fouling buildup and maintain accuracy. The robust black oxide finish offers good corrosion resistance, but a light coat of gun oil on external metal surfaces after cleaning will provide additional protection, particularly in humid environments. The Barkeep's relatively simple single-action mechanism also means it's straightforward to disassemble for routine cleaning and inspection, making it an excellent platform for those new to firearm maintenance.

Why Choose the BK22B2GPRL Model?

The specific BK22B2GPRL model of the Heritage Barkeep distinguishes itself with its striking Gray Pearl grips. While all Barkeep models deliver the same reliable performance, the choice of grip material allows for personalization and adds to the visual appeal. The Gray Pearl grips on this model provide a unique aesthetic that sets it apart, making it a favorite for those who appreciate both performance and distinctive style. It's a statement piece that doesn't sacrifice practicality for looks.

In conclusion, the Heritage Mfg BK22B2GPRL Barkeep .22 LR revolver is more than just a compact handgun; it's an invitation to experience the joy of shooting. Its blend of classic single-action operation, versatile .22 LR (and optional .22 WMR) capability, durable construction, and eye-catching aesthetics makes it a highly recommended choice for new shooters, seasoned plinkers, small game hunters, and anyone looking for a reliable, enjoyable, and affordable rimfire revolver. This firearm stands ready to provide countless hours of shooting pleasure and practical utility. For those interested in acquiring this exceptional revolver, it is readily available through reputable firearm dealers, including DEGuns, where you can explore its features further and make it a valuable addition to your collection.

Heritage Barkeep BK22B2GPRL Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Heritage Mfg
Model	Barkeep
SKU	BK22B2GPRL
Caliber	.22 LR (Ships with)
Optional Caliber	.22 WMR (Interchangeable Cylinder)
Barrel Length	2.68"
Capacity	6 Shot
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Frame Finish	Black Oxide
Overall Length	7.95"
Frame Material	Zinc Alloy
Sights	Fixed Front / Notched Rear
Barrel Finish	Black Oxide
Barrel Material	Steel
Twist Rate	1:10"
Grips	Gray Pearl
Cylinder Material	Steel
Cylinder Finish	Black Oxide
Grooves	6
Height	4.86"
Safety	Manual
Width	1.50"
Weight	26 oz
Hammer Style	Exposed
UPC	727962704660