The Ultimate Discreet Defender: North American Arms Wasp .22 WMR Mini-Revolver

Are you searching for the ideal personal protection firearm that offers unparalleled concealability without compromising on reliability? Do you need a lightweight, dependable backup gun that you can discreetly carry in nearly any situation? Look no further than the North American Arms (NAA) Wasp .22 WMR mini-revolver, model 22MTW. This compact powerhouse is meticulously engineered for those who prioritize discreet self-defense, offering a unique blend of portability, power, and precision in a remarkably small package.

The NAA Wasp stands as a testament to North American Arms' legacy of crafting exceptionally small, yet highly effective, personal defense tools. Designed from the ground up to be a true pocket gun, it addresses the critical need for an easily concealable firearm that can always be with you. Whether you're a seasoned carrier seeking a reliable secondary firearm or an individual looking for a straightforward, confidence-inspiring defense option, the Wasp offers a compelling solution.

Unveiling the NAA Wasp: A Deep Dive into its Design and Features

The North American Arms Wasp .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) mini-revolver is distinguished by its robust construction and thoughtful design, making it a standout in the realm of ultra-compact firearms. Every element of the Wasp, from its frame to its cylinder and barrel, is crafted from high-quality stainless steel. This choice of material not only provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance but also contributes to the firearm's appealing, no-nonsense aesthetic. The overall stainless steel finish ensures that the Wasp can withstand the rigors of daily carry and varying environmental conditions, maintaining its integrity and appearance over time.

Engineered for Performance: The Vent Rib Barrel

A distinctive feature of the NAA Wasp is its 1.63-inch vent rib barrel. The vent rib design, typically seen on larger firearms, provides a unique visual appeal while also contributing to the barrel's rigidity and heat dissipation. This short barrel length is crucial for maintaining the Wasp's ultra-compact profile, allowing it to disappear into a pocket or small holster with ease. Despite its diminutive size, the barrel is precisely machined to ensure reliable bullet stabilization, contributing to the revolver's practical accuracy at typical self-defense distances.

Power in a Small Package: The .22 WMR Advantage

One of the most significant advantages of the NAA Wasp is its chambering in .22 WMR, also known as .22 Magnum. This potent rimfire cartridge offers significantly more power and velocity than standard .22 LR ammunition, making it a viable option for personal protection. The Wasp's design ensures compatibility with all popular .22 Magnum ammunition types, providing users with a wide range of choices, from self-defense-oriented hollow points to versatile full metal jacket rounds. Furthermore, the Wasp is explicitly designed to handle .22 Magnum shotshells, often referred to as "Snake Shot." This capability makes the Wasp an incredibly versatile tool, not only for personal defense against human threats but also for dealing with small venomous creatures in outdoor environments, adding another layer of utility for those who spend time in rural or wilderness areas.

Comfort and Control: The Black Pebbled Texture Rubber Grip

Despite its small frame, the NAA Wasp prioritizes user comfort and control. It comes standard with black pebble-textured rubber grips. This ergonomic grip design provides a secure and comfortable hold, even for individuals with larger hands. The pebbled texture enhances traction, reducing the likelihood of slippage, especially in high-stress situations or when hands are wet. This thoughtful grip choice allows for a firm grasp, essential for controlling the revolver during firing and ensuring consistent aim.

Simple and Effective Sighting System

For quick target acquisition, the Wasp features a fixed bead front sight. This simple yet effective sighting system is perfectly suited for the revolver's intended role as a close-range defensive tool. In a self-defense scenario, engagements often occur at very close distances, where complex sights are less critical than rapid presentation and a clear front sight picture. The bead sight allows for instinctive aiming, crucial when every second counts.

Optimized for Concealed Carry: Why the Wasp Excels

The core philosophy behind the NAA Wasp is discreet carry. Its incredibly lightweight design, weighing in at a mere 6.50 ounces, makes it virtually unnoticeable when carried in a pocket, ankle holster, or small bag. Its overall length (OAL) of 5.13 inches further reinforces its status as an ultimate pocket pistol. This minimal footprint ensures that the Wasp can accompany you almost anywhere, providing a constant layer of security without the bulk or printing issues associated with larger firearms.

The "Always On You" Advantage

One of the most compelling arguments for a firearm like the NAA Wasp is the concept of the "always on you" gun. Many individuals find larger pistols cumbersome for daily carry, leading them to leave their firearm behind in certain situations. The Wasp eliminates this dilemma. Its exceptional concealability means you're far more likely to carry it consistently, ensuring that you have a defensive tool when you need it most. This consistent presence is arguably the most significant advantage in personal protection.

Robust Safety Features for Peace of Mind

North American Arms has incorporated a crucial safety feature into the Wasp: the half-way notch cylinder. This innovative design allows the hammer to rest safely and securely away from live or empty chambers without any chance of accidental discharge. By rotating the cylinder to align with these safety notches, the user can carry the revolver with a loaded chamber under the hammer without fear of an unintentional firing due to impacts or drops. This mechanism provides an important layer of security and confidence, ensuring that the firearm is safe to carry and ready for action only when deliberately cocked.

Real-World Applications and User Benefits

The NAA Wasp .22 WMR is an ideal choice for several types of users and a variety of real-world scenarios:

• Everyday Concealed Carry: For individuals seeking the utmost in discreet personal protection, the Wasp fits comfortably in a front pocket, coin pocket, or small purse, making it an excellent choice for daily carry where larger firearms are impractical.
• Backup Firearm: Experienced carriers often utilize the Wasp as a reliable secondary or "last ditch" weapon. Its small size allows it to be carried alongside a primary firearm without adding significant weight or bulk.
• Home Defense (Specific Circumstances): While not a primary home defense weapon, the Wasp can serve as an accessible option in specific scenarios, such as keeping it in a bedside safe for immediate access.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts: Its ability to fire .22 Magnum shotshells makes it surprisingly effective against small pests, snakes, or for signaling purposes, making it useful for hikers, campers, and fishermen.
• Those Seeking Simplicity: As a single-action only (SAO) revolver, the Wasp offers a straightforward manual of arms. Cocking the hammer before each shot is an intentional action that can be appealing to users who prefer a simpler, more deliberate firing process.

Users consistently praise the Wasp for its "just there" quality—it's so small and light that you often forget you're carrying it, until you need it. This leads to higher rates of consistent carry, which is paramount for effective self-defense planning.

North American Arms: A Legacy of Quality and Innovation

North American Arms has built a sterling reputation over decades for producing exceptionally high-quality, ultra-compact firearms. Their commitment to precision engineering, durable materials, and reliable performance has made them a trusted name in the mini-revolver market. The Wasp continues this tradition, embodying the craftsmanship and attention to detail that NAA customers have come to expect. Each component is manufactured to exacting standards, ensuring smooth operation and consistent reliability when it matters most.

Maintaining Your NAA Wasp

Like any precision instrument, proper care and maintenance will ensure your North American Arms Wasp continues to perform optimally for years to come. Because it is constructed almost entirely of stainless steel, cleaning is relatively simple. Regular cleaning after use, focusing on the bore, chambers, and action, will prevent fouling buildup. A light coat of gun oil on moving parts and external surfaces will protect against corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Given its minimal number of moving parts, the Wasp is known for its robust nature and requires less intensive maintenance compared to more complex semi-automatic pistols.

Where to Purchase Your NAA Wasp .22 WMR

For those ready to experience the unmatched concealability and reliable performance of the North American Arms Wasp .22 WMR mini-revolver (UPC 744253002298, SKU 22MTW), look no further than DEGuns. As a premier retailer of firearms, DEGuns offers a wide selection of NAA products, ensuring you can find the perfect model to meet your personal defense needs. Their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction make DEGuns the ideal place to acquire this exceptional firearm. Explore the full range of NAA revolvers and accessories available at deguns.com, where you can find detailed product information, competitive pricing, and a seamless purchasing experience for all your firearm requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About the NAA Wasp

Is the .22 WMR powerful enough for self-defense?

While often considered a smaller caliber, modern .22 WMR ammunition offers significantly improved ballistic performance compared to standard .22 LR. With proper shot placement, it can be an effective cartridge for close-range personal protection, especially given the Wasp's role as a backup or "get off me" gun. Many choose it for its manageable recoil and ease of accurate follow-up shots in such a small platform.

How easy is it to conceal the NAA Wasp?

The NAA Wasp is among the easiest firearms to conceal. Its 5.13-inch overall length and 6.50-ounce weight mean it can comfortably fit into a jeans pocket, jacket pocket, or a small purse without printing. This makes it an ideal choice for deep concealment and situations where discretion is paramount.

What is the "half-way notch cylinder" safety feature?

This is a crucial safety mechanism unique to NAA mini-revolvers. It allows the hammer to be lowered safely into a half-cocked position, resting between the chambers. This prevents the hammer from directly impacting a loaded primer if the revolver is accidentally dropped or struck, significantly reducing the risk of an unintentional discharge. To fire, the user must manually pull the hammer back to full-cock.

Can I shoot .22 LR ammunition in the NAA Wasp?

No, the North American Arms Wasp is specifically chambered for .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) ammunition. It is not designed to safely or reliably fire .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) cartridges. Always ensure you use the correct ammunition type specified for your firearm.

What is "Snake Shot" and how is it used with the Wasp?

"Snake Shot" refers to .22 Magnum shotshells, which contain a small charge of fine lead shot instead of a single bullet. These rounds are highly effective at very close range for dispatching small pests like snakes or rats. The NAA Wasp's compatibility with these rounds adds to its versatility, making it a useful tool for outdoor enthusiasts in areas where such pests are a concern.

Is the NAA Wasp a good choice for a first-time gun owner?

While extremely simple to operate, the Wasp is a single-action revolver, meaning the hammer must be manually cocked for each shot. This requires deliberate action. Its very small size can also make it challenging for some new shooters to handle effectively compared to larger, more forgiving firearms. However, for those specifically seeking the smallest possible self-defense option and who are committed to training, it can be a viable choice. Always seek professional instruction.

What kind of holster should I use for the Wasp?

Due to its compact size, the NAA Wasp is compatible with a wide range of minimalist holsters. Common options include pocket holsters that break up the outline, small IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) holsters, ankle holsters, or even custom wallet-style holsters. The best choice depends on individual comfort and preferred carry method.

North American Arms Wasp Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	North American Arms
Model	Wasp
Caliber	.22 WMR
Capacity	5 Rounds
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Overall Length (OAL)	5.13 inches
Barrel Length	1.63 inches
Barrel Description	Vent Rib
Finish	Overall Stainless Steel
Frame Material	Stainless Steel
Grip	Black Pebbled Texture Rubber
Sights	Fixed Bead Front (Half Moon)
Cylinder Material	Stainless Steel
Weight	6.50 ounces
SKU	22MTW
UPC	744253002298