Diamondback Sidekick
The Diamondback Sidekick is a single-action rimfire revolver that brings the fun of the classic Western SAA format to .22 LR and .22 WMR — with a 9-shot cylinder and an included interchangeable .22 WMR cylinder so you get two calibers in one purchase. One of the most entertaining value buys in the rimfire market.
Read our full Diamondback Sidekick Buying Guide ↓
What Makes the Sidekick Stand Out
Two things: the 9-shot cylinder and the dual-caliber package. Most competing single-action .22 revolvers — including the popular Heritage Rough Rider — ship with a 6-shot cylinder. The Sidekick's 9-shot cylinder holds 50% more rounds, which makes a real difference during a range session. The included .22 WMR cylinder gives you the option to run the more powerful rimfire Magnum cartridge from the same revolver — more versatility than any competing single-action .22 at a comparable price.
Key Features
9-shot cylinder — Holds 9 rounds of .22 LR versus the 6 rounds of most competing single-action .22 revolvers. Fewer reloading interruptions during a range session.
Interchangeable .22 WMR cylinder — Included as standard. Swap cylinders to run .22 Magnum when more power is needed — small game hunting, varmints, or simply the more powerful rimfire option.
Single-action operation — Manual hammer cock before each shot. The classic Western revolver experience — deliberate, fun, and mechanically simple.
Transfer bar safety — Safe to carry all chambers loaded with the transfer bar preventing unintended discharge.
Sidekick vs. Heritage Rough Rider
The Heritage Rough Rider is the most popular single-action .22 revolver — widely available, well-priced, and proven. The Sidekick's advantages are the 9-shot cylinder (vs. 6) and the included .22 WMR cylinder (vs. separate purchase on most Rough Rider configurations). For buyers who want maximum value in a fun .22 single-action, the Sidekick's dual-cylinder package at its price point is hard to beat.
FAQ
Does the Diamondback Sidekick come with two cylinders?
Yes — the Sidekick ships with both a 9-shot .22 LR cylinder and a 9-shot .22 WMR cylinder as standard equipment.
What calibers does the Diamondback Sidekick shoot?
.22 LR and .22 WMR using the two included interchangeable cylinders.
How many rounds does the Diamondback Sidekick hold?
9 rounds in both the .22 LR and .22 WMR cylinders — significantly more than the 6-shot capacity of most competing single-action .22 revolvers.
Is the Diamondback Sidekick good for small game hunting?
Yes — particularly in .22 WMR configuration. The single-action trigger encourages deliberate shot placement, and the .22 WMR cylinder delivers adequate performance on squirrel, rabbit, and similar small game.