North American Arms Wasp .22 WMR Mini-Revolver: The Ultimate Guide to Discreet Personal Protection and Emergency Readiness

Are you searching for an ultra-compact, reliable firearm that offers unparalleled discretion for personal protection? Do you need a lightweight backup gun that can be easily concealed in virtually any attire? Or perhaps you're looking for a specialized tool for pest control, like the infamous "snake shot"? The North American Arms (NAA) Wasp .22 WMR mini-revolver is meticulously engineered to meet these unique demands, providing peace of mind in a remarkably small package.

For individuals who prioritize extreme concealability and dependable functionality above all else, the NAA Wasp stands out as a premier choice. This guide delves deep into the features, benefits, and practical applications of this iconic mini-revolver, helping you understand why it's consistently chosen by those who value discreet readiness. Whether you're a seasoned firearm enthusiast or new to the world of personal defense, discovering the capabilities of the NAA Wasp can profoundly impact your approach to safety. These exceptional firearms, including the North American Arms Wasp, are available for purchase at DEGuns, a trusted source for quality firearms and accessories.

Why Choose a North American Arms Mini-Revolver for Concealed Carry?

When considering personal protection, many people think of larger handguns. However, the true utility of a mini-revolver like the NAA Wasp lies in its ability to be there when larger firearms cannot. It addresses the critical need for a "last resort" or "always with you" defensive tool.

• Unrivaled Concealability: At just 5.13 inches overall length and weighing a mere 6.50 ounces, the Wasp is truly a pocket pistol. It disappears into a pocket, waistband, or even a small purse, making it ideal for situations where deep concealment is paramount.
• Dependable Simplicity: As a single-action revolver, the Wasp offers mechanical simplicity and robust reliability. There are no magazines to fail, no slides to cycle improperly under stress, just a straightforward mechanism designed to go bang every time the hammer falls.
• Versatility of .22 WMR: The .22 Magnum (.22 WMR) cartridge provides a significant ballistic improvement over .22 LR, offering higher velocities and more energy, especially from a short barrel. Its ability to chamber specialized ammunition like "snake shot" expands its utility beyond just self-defense.
• Always Ready: For many, the Wasp serves as a reliable backup gun to a primary firearm, or as a stand-alone option when other carry methods are impractical. It ensures you are never completely unarmed.

Exploring the Core Features of the NAA Wasp .22 WMR

The North American Arms Wasp, model 22MTW, is a testament to NAA’s commitment to quality and innovative design in the mini-revolver category. Every element of this firearm is crafted with purpose, contributing to its effectiveness and user experience.

Precision-Engineered Vent Rib Barrel

The 1.63-inch barrel of the Wasp features a distinctive vent rib. While often associated with larger firearms for heat dissipation or reduced muzzle rise, on a mini-revolver, the vent rib primarily serves to enhance the sight picture. It creates a defined, flat sighting plane that aids in quickly acquiring the fixed bead front sight, allowing for more precise aim in close-quarters scenarios. The robust stainless steel construction of the barrel ensures durability and corrosion resistance, crucial for a firearm that might be carried in various environments.

Durable Stainless Steel Construction

From its frame to its cylinder and barrel, the NAA Wasp boasts an overall stainless steel finish. This material choice is not merely aesthetic; it's fundamental to the revolver's longevity and reliability. Stainless steel offers exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion, which is particularly beneficial for a gun that will likely encounter body sweat, environmental moisture, or pocket lint. Its inherent strength also contributes to the structural integrity of the firearm, ensuring it can withstand repeated use and the demands of the powerful .22 WMR cartridge. The sleek, non-reflective finish adds to its discreet profile.

Ergonomic Black Pebbled Texture Rubber Grip

Despite its diminutive size, the Wasp is designed with user comfort and control in mind. The black pebbled texture rubber grip provides a secure and comfortable hold, even for larger hands. This material choice significantly improves handling compared to smooth, hard grips, especially during rapid firing or under stressful conditions. The textured surface enhances friction, ensuring the small firearm remains firmly in the shooter's hand, which is vital for maintaining accuracy and safety. The ergonomic design helps mitigate the felt recoil of the .22 WMR, making practice sessions more enjoyable.

Innovative Half-Way Notch Cylinder Safety

A cornerstone of North American Arms’ mini-revolver design is the patented half-way notch cylinder safety. This ingenious feature addresses the primary safety concern with single-action revolvers: how to safely carry with a round in every chamber. By manually rotating the cylinder and resting the hammer in one of the five safety notches located between the chambers, the hammer is held securely away from any live or empty primer. This completely prevents accidental discharge if the hammer were to be struck or if the gun were dropped. To fire, the user simply pulls the hammer back to its fully cocked position, aligning the cylinder for firing. This system offers an unparalleled level of safety for a single-action revolver, allowing for secure five-shot carry without worry.

Fixed Bead Front Sight for Rapid Acquisition

The Wasp features a fixed bead front sight, paired with a simple notch rear sight inherent to the frame. This minimalistic sight setup is perfectly suited for the intended use of this firearm: close-range engagements where rapid target acquisition is more critical than pinpoint accuracy at a distance. The bright bead is easy to pick up, even in low light, guiding the eye quickly to the target. For the typical self-defense distances where a mini-revolver would be employed, this sight system is highly effective and uncomplicated.

The Power and Versatility of the .22 WMR Cartridge

The choice of the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) cartridge for the NAA Wasp is a deliberate one, maximizing its effectiveness for a mini-revolver.

Ballistic Performance from a Short Barrel

While not a large-bore cartridge, the .22 WMR delivers impressive performance from the Wasp's 1.63-inch barrel. Standard .22 WMR ammunition, often featuring jacketed hollow points (JHP) or full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets, can achieve velocities upwards of 1,000 feet per second (fps) from this short barrel, generating sufficient energy for close-quarters self-defense. This makes it a more potent option than a .22 LR in a similar platform.

Ammunition Versatility: Beyond Self-Defense

One of the Wasp's most unique advantages is its compatibility with .22 Magnum shot shells, colloquially known as "Snake Shot." These cartridges are filled with tiny lead pellets, transforming the revolver into an effective tool for pest control at extremely close ranges. For campers, hikers, or those living in areas prone to venomous snakes, the ability to quickly dispatch a threat without over-penetration makes the Wasp an invaluable companion. This versatility truly sets it apart from many other small carry firearms.

Who is the NAA Wasp For? Common Use Cases Answered

The North American Arms Wasp addresses several distinct needs for various users.

• Primary Concealed Carry for Deep Discretion: For individuals who must maintain absolute discretion due to their profession, lifestyle, or clothing choices, the Wasp offers a genuine "pocket gun" solution that virtually disappears. It's an excellent choice for those who find larger firearms too cumbersome or impossible to conceal.
• Backup or Secondary Firearm: Many experienced shooters carry the Wasp as a second gun, providing an emergency option should their primary firearm become inaccessible or malfunction. Its small size allows it to be carried easily in an ankle holster, vest pocket, or discreetly on the body.
• Emergency Self-Defense: For situations where a quick, close-range defensive capability is needed, the Wasp offers a simple point-and-shoot mechanism. Its reliability as a revolver is a key advantage in high-stress moments.
• Pest Control in Rural or Outdoor Settings: As mentioned, the ability to chamber "snake shot" makes it ideal for dealing with small, close-range threats like snakes or rodents without the risk of over-penetration or disturbing the environment with a louder, more powerful round.
• Minimalist EDC (Everyday Carry): For those who prefer to carry as little as possible but still want a layer of protection, the Wasp fits the bill perfectly. Its lightweight design means it won't drag down pockets or cause discomfort.

Maintaining Your NAA Wasp Mini-Revolver: Simple Care for Lasting Performance

Like any firearm, the NAA Wasp benefits from regular cleaning and proper care to ensure its long-term reliability and performance. Its simple design makes maintenance straightforward.

1. Safety First: Always ensure the firearm is unloaded before beginning any cleaning or maintenance. Verify the chambers are empty and the hammer is resting in a safety notch or fully lowered on an empty chamber.
2. Disassembly (Limited): For routine cleaning, extensive disassembly is typically not required. The cylinder can be easily removed by pulling forward on the cylinder pin.
3. Cleaning the Bore and Chambers: Use a .22 caliber bore brush with appropriate cleaning solvent to scrub the inside of the barrel and each chamber. Follow with patches to remove fouling until clean.
4. Cleaning the Frame and Cylinder: Use a brush and solvent to clean carbon and debris from the frame, especially around the forcing cone and beneath the cylinder. Wipe down the cylinder thoroughly.
5. Lubrication: Apply a thin coat of light gun oil to moving parts, such as the cylinder pin, ejector rod (if applicable to your model), and the hammer pivot. Avoid over-lubricating.
6. Reassembly and Function Check: Reassemble the firearm, ensuring all parts fit correctly. Perform a function check (dry fire with an empty chamber or snap cap) to confirm proper operation of the hammer and trigger.
7. Storage: Store your Wasp in a cool, dry place, ideally in a humidity-controlled environment, to prevent rust.

Comparing the NAA Wasp: What Sets it Apart?

While there are other small firearms on the market, the NAA Wasp occupies a unique niche.

• Revolver vs. Semi-Automatic: Unlike small semi-automatic pistols, the Wasp's revolver action is inherently simpler and less prone to malfunctions related to ammunition choice, limp-wristing, or feeding issues. Revolvers are generally seen as more reliable in a "point and shoot" emergency.
• .22 WMR vs. .22 LR: The .22 WMR cartridge offers a significant ballistic advantage over the more common .22 LR, especially in short barrel applications, making it a more viable self-defense round.
• Size and Weight: Few firearms can match the Wasp's combination of minimal size and feather-light weight (6.50 oz), making it genuinely comfortable for all-day deep concealment.

Final Thoughts: A Specialized Tool for Specific Needs

The North American Arms 22MTW Wasp in .22 WMR is not designed to be a primary duty pistol, nor does it aim to compete with full-sized handguns. Instead, it excels in its specific role: providing an ultra-reliable, supremely concealable, and surprisingly versatile personal protection option for those who prioritize discretion and simplicity. Its robust stainless steel construction, ergonomic rubber grip, and innovative safety features make it a trustworthy companion for emergency readiness, backup defense, or specialized pest control. When every inch and ounce counts, the Wasp delivers big utility in a tiny package.

Available at DEGuns, the North American Arms Wasp is a testament to purposeful design, offering peace of mind through discreet preparedness.

North American Arms Wasp Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	North American Arms
Model	Wasp
Caliber	22 WMR
Barrel Length	1.63"
Capacity	5rd
Action	SAO (Single Action Only)
Frame Finish	Stainless Steel
Overall Length	5.13"
Frame Material	Stainless Steel
Sights	Fixed Bead Front (Half Moon Style)
Barrel Finish	Stainless Steel
Frame Size	Small
Grips	Black Pebbled Rubber
Cylinder Material	Stainless Steel
Cylinder Finish	Stainless Steel
Barrel Description	Vent Rib
Weight	6.50 oz
Hammer Style	Exposed
SKU	69890
UPC	744253002298
MPN	22MTW