North American Arms Black Widow Mini Revolver: Your Ultimate Compact Companion for Self-Defense and Everyday Carry

For individuals seeking an exceptionally reliable, highly concealable, and versatile firearm for personal protection or as a dependable backup, the North American Arms (NAA) Black Widow Mini Revolver stands out as a premier choice. Engineered to deliver enhanced stability and accuracy within a remarkably compact design, this revolver is a testament to NAA's legacy of crafting robust and precise mini-revolvers.

Who is the North American Arms Black Widow For?

The NAA Black Widow is meticulously designed for a specific demographic of firearm owners. Are you looking for a discreet self-defense solution that can be carried comfortably and virtually unnoticed? Do you require a lightweight, dependable backup firearm that won't weigh you down? Perhaps you're a responsible citizen seeking a minimalist yet effective tool for personal security. This compact revolver is ideal for:

• Concealed Carry Enthusiasts: Its petite footprint and slim profile make it an excellent candidate for pocket carry, ankle holsters, or discreet waistband carry. For those who prioritize deep concealment without compromising on defensive capability, the Black Widow is a prime contender.
• Backup Gun Users: Many law enforcement officers and armed professionals opt for a secondary firearm. The Black Widow serves as an incredibly lightweight and reliable "BUG" (Backup Gun) that can be easily deployed in emergency situations.
• First-Time Firearm Owners (with proper training): While single-action revolvers require a deliberate approach, the Black Widow's simplicity of operation and the manageable recoil of its calibers can be a good starting point for new shooters committed to safety and training.
• Outdoor Adventurers & Campers: When space and weight are at a premium, a compact revolver like the Black Widow offers peace of mind without being cumbersome, suitable for deterring small threats or as a signaling device.
• Home Defense Supplement: While not a primary home defense weapon for most, its accessibility and ease of storage make it a viable option for quick deployment in specific scenarios, especially in smaller living spaces.

This revolver addresses common challenges faced by those who carry a firearm daily: bulk, weight, and printability. The Black Widow minimizes these concerns, offering maximum discretion.

Unveiling the NAA Black Widow: Features and Benefits

Evolved from NAA's highly successful .22 Magnum frame series, the Black Widow incorporates all the time-tested design characteristics that define North American Arms mini-revolvers, while introducing enhancements for superior handling and performance. Let's delve into what makes this revolver a standout:

Exceptional Caliber Versatility: .22 WMR and .22 LR Convertible

One of the most compelling features of the North American Arms Black Widow (model BWCCRK) is its remarkable caliber versatility. This model is a true convertible revolver, meaning it comes with both a .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) cylinder and a .22 LR (Long Rifle) cylinder. This dual-caliber capability offers significant advantages:

• Power and Penetration (.22 WMR): The .22 WMR, often referred to as .22 Magnum, offers higher velocity, greater energy, and improved penetration compared to the .22 LR. For self-defense purposes, especially against soft targets, the .22 WMR provides a more robust performance. It's a potent round for its size, making the Black Widow a serious contender for personal protection.
• Economical Training and Plinking (.22 LR): The .22 LR is one of the most widely available and affordable ammunition types globally. Swapping to the .22 LR cylinder allows for cost-effective practice sessions, enabling owners to maintain proficiency without breaking the bank. This makes the Black Widow an excellent tool for skill development and enjoyable target shooting.
• Adaptability: This convertible design means you can tailor your ammunition choice to your specific needs. Carry .22 WMR for defensive scenarios and switch to .22 LR for range time or less critical situations, all with a single firearm.

The inclusion of both cylinders adds tremendous value, making the Black Widow a highly adaptable and practical firearm for various applications.

Robust Construction: Stainless Steel with Stainless Cerakote Finish

The Black Widow is built to last, reflecting NAA's commitment to durability. The entire revolver, including the frame, cylinder, and barrel, is crafted from high-quality stainless steel. This material choice inherently provides:

• Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, a critical feature for a firearm that will likely be carried close to the body, exposed to sweat and environmental elements.
• Strength and Longevity: The inherent strength of stainless steel ensures the revolver can withstand consistent use and maintain its structural integrity over time.

Further enhancing its resilience, the Black Widow features a Stainless Cerakote finish on both the frame and barrel. Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish known for its:

• Exceptional Durability: It provides superior abrasion, corrosion, and chemical resistance compared to traditional finishes.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: The Cerakote finish provides a clean, uniform, and attractive appearance that complements the ruggedness of the stainless steel.
• Reduced Glare: The matte finish can help reduce glare, which is beneficial for sighting.

This combination of stainless steel construction and Cerakote finish ensures the Black Widow remains reliable and presentable even after extensive use and exposure to various conditions.

Ergonomic Design: Finger-Grooved Black Rubber Grip

Despite its miniature size, the NAA Black Widow prioritizes user comfort and control, a crucial factor for accurate shooting. It features an oversized, finger-grooved black rubber grip. This grip design offers several key advantages:

• Enhanced Control: The finger grooves naturally guide your hand into a consistent and secure hold, improving weapon retention and shot placement.
• Recoil Absorption: While .22 LR and .22 WMR are not high-recoil calibers, the rubber material of the grip helps to absorb and dissipate what little recoil there is, making the shooting experience more comfortable, especially during extended range sessions.
• Improved Handling: The oversized nature of the grip, compared to other NAA mini-revolvers, provides a fuller handhold, contributing to enhanced stability and better overall shootability. This is especially beneficial for those with larger hands who might find traditional mini-revolver grips too small.
• Iconic Design: The grip proudly sports the iconic red hourglass shape, a subtle yet distinctive nod to its namesake, the Black Widow spider, adding a unique aesthetic touch.

Precise Sighting System: Fixed Marble Arms Front & Rear Sights

Unlike some miniature firearms that feature rudimentary sighting solutions, the Black Widow is equipped with quality fixed sights from Marble Arms. These low-profile front and rear sights are designed for:

• Reliable Accuracy: Fixed sights are inherently durable and less prone to shifting or damage, ensuring consistent point of impact.
• Snag-Free Design: Their low profile minimizes the risk of snagging on clothing or holsters during drawing, which is paramount for a concealed carry weapon.
• Quick Target Acquisition: While simple, these sights provide a clear and effective aiming point, facilitating rapid target acquisition in close-quarters scenarios.

The Heavy 2" Vent Rib Barrel

The Black Widow features a distinctive heavy 2" vent rib barrel. This design choice is not merely aesthetic:

• Weight for Stability: The "heavy" designation indicates more material in the barrel, which adds a slight forward weight, contributing to better balance and reduced muzzle flip during firing. This translates to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
• Vent Rib Design: The vent rib along the top of the barrel primarily serves to dissipate heat from the barrel, especially during rapid firing, which can help mitigate heat distortion that might affect accuracy. It also adds to the revolver's distinctive appearance.

Single Action Only (SAO) Mechanism

The NAA Black Widow operates in Single Action Only (SAO) mode. This means that the hammer must be manually cocked before each shot can be fired. While this requires an extra step, it offers specific advantages:

• Deliberate Firing: The SAO mechanism promotes a more deliberate and precise shot process, reducing the chance of accidental discharge due to a light trigger pull.
• Crisp Trigger Pull: Single-action triggers are generally known for their lighter and crisper pull, which can contribute to greater accuracy.
• Enhanced Safety: For a gun often carried in a pocket or without a traditional holster, the need to manually cock the hammer adds a layer of safety, making accidental discharge less likely without intentional manipulation.

Compact Dimensions and Weight

With an Overall Length (OAL) of just 5.88 inches and a mere weight of 8.90 ounces, the Black Widow is genuinely a "mini" revolver. This compact footprint is its defining characteristic, making it incredibly easy to conceal and carry throughout the day without discomfort or noticeability. Its size makes it suitable for virtually any carrying method, from a small pocket to an ankle rig, offering unparalleled discretion.

Solving Common Questions about Mini Revolvers and Concealed Carry

When considering a mini revolver like the NAA Black Widow, users often have specific questions. Here's how this firearm addresses them:

"Is a .22 Magnum (or .22 LR) sufficient for self-defense?"

While often debated, the adage "the best gun for self-defense is the one you have with you" rings true. For situations requiring discreet carry, the Black Widow's .22 WMR capability offers surprising effectiveness, especially with modern defensive ammunition designed for expansion. While not a large-caliber primary defensive weapon, its compact size ensures it will be with you when needed. The .22 LR option is perfect for training to ensure accurate shot placement, which is paramount regardless of caliber.

"How do I carry such a small gun safely?"

The NAA Black Widow's SAO design means it requires manual cocking, adding a safety layer. However, safe carry in a pocket or bag is paramount. A dedicated pocket holster or a specialized Black Widow holster is highly recommended to cover the trigger guard and prevent lint or debris from entering the mechanism. Always ensure the hammer is safely rested on an empty chamber or on the safety notch if present (NAA mini-revolvers often have safety notches between chambers).

"What are the benefits of a convertible revolver like the Black Widow?"

The primary benefit is unparalleled versatility. You gain the power of .22 WMR for defensive purposes and the cost-effectiveness of .22 LR for extensive practice. This allows you to become highly proficient with your defensive tool without incurring significant ammunition costs, ensuring you're always prepared for any scenario.

"Is it easy to clean and maintain a stainless steel firearm?"

Absolutely. Stainless steel is renowned for its ease of maintenance. It resists rust and corrosion, making it less demanding than blued steel. Regular cleaning with standard firearm solvents and lubricants is sufficient to keep your Black Widow in pristine condition. The Cerakote finish further aids in protection against wear and tear.

"What distinguishes North American Arms from other manufacturers?"

North American Arms has carved out a niche as the leading expert in miniature revolvers. Their reputation is built on decades of consistent quality, innovative design (like the convertible cylinders), and an unwavering commitment to reliability in compact packages. When you choose an NAA product, you're investing in a firearm from a company that specializes in and perfects the mini-revolver concept.

The North American Arms Black Widow: A Legacy of Innovation and Reliability

The NAA Black Widow continues North American Arms' tradition of crafting high-quality, dependable mini-revolvers. Its evolution from the popular .22 Magnum frame series highlights a continuous drive for improvement, resulting in a firearm that not only performs reliably but also offers enhanced handling and accuracy. The distinct "bull cylinder" and heavy vent barrel contribute to its robust feel and balanced weight, defying its small stature.

Whether you're prioritizing deep concealment, seeking a reliable backup, or simply appreciate the craftsmanship of a purpose-built miniature firearm, the NAA Black Widow delivers. Its blend of power, versatility, and discreet form factor makes it an indispensable tool for personal readiness.

This exceptional piece of engineering is available for purchase at DEGuns.com, your trusted source for quality firearms and accessories. Experience the confidence and capability that comes with carrying the North American Arms Black Widow, a compact powerhouse designed for serious self-defense and everyday peace of mind.

North American Arms Black Widow Specifications

Brand	North American Arms
Model	Black Widow
Caliber	22 WMR / 22 LR (Convertible)
Barrel Length	2"
Capacity	5rd
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Frame Finish	Stainless Cerakote
Overall Length (OAL)	5.88"
Frame Material	Stainless Steel
Sights	Fixed Marble Arms Front & Rear
Barrel Finish	Stainless Cerakote
Frame Size	Compact
Grips	Black Finger Groove Rubber
Cylinder Material	Stainless Steel
Cylinder Finish	Stainless
Includes	Both .22 LR & .22 WMR Cylinders
Barrel Description	Vent Rib Steel
Max Capacity	5 Rounds
Weight	8.90 oz
Hammer Style	Exposed
SKU	148166
UPC	744253003592
MPN	BWCCRK