There is something about small, easily concealable handguns. For years with the riverboat gambler or the old-fashioned lawmen of the West in mind, compact firearms have been an object of modern carry in society today and American tradition has to do with firearms with both. The North American Arms (NAA) Recluse in .22 Magnum is the current version of both—its derringer nature and revolver design stand out in today’s market at once.
A quick history of Derringer-style Handguns
The word “derringer” comes back to Henry Deringer, a Philadelphia gunsmith in the early 1800s. His original single-shot percussion pistols were small, easily concealed, and surprisingly powerful at close range. The word “derringer” has always been associated with small, pocket-sized firearms of that nature, regardless of manufacturer.
For the Old West, derringers were often a backup gun. Gamblers carried their firearms, ladies kept them in handbags or garters, and outlaws used derringers among their last tools of defense. Their small size was compensated by their concealability and ease of use.
Once metallic cartridges became standard, derringers evolved to two-shot configurations, such as the Remington Model 95. But what we really knew was that all of them had the same basic idea: ultra-compact defense with close-range fire.
NAA Recluse: Taking the Derringer Concept to the Next Level
North American Arms elevated that classic idea all the way to the next level. Rather than a conventional two-shot derringer, they engineered a mini-revolver that maintains the concealability of a derringer while offering increased capacity and reliability.
The Recluse is chambered in .22 Magnum (WMR) and has a five-shot cylinder, which immediately gives it a significant advantage over traditional derringers. The most significant feature of the Recluse, though, is the ported barrel system designed to help manage recoil and reduce muzzle rise—an impressive feature for a firearm this small.
The Recluse, in many ways, is a bridge from old-world simplicity to modern engineering. It retains the look and feel of the derringer while providing much better functionality that is now largely more suitable for concealed carry.
Range Impressions
The NAA Recluse handled itself as normally as a revolver would on the range, going bang every time. Reliability is one of the biggest advantages of revolvers, and this little gun lived up to that reputation.
We tested at a distance of 10 feet, focusing on center mass (which is exactly the kind of distance this firearm is designed for). I successfully placed the rounds on target at that range. But we must keep expectations achievable:
You are not buying a mini-revolver for precision shooting.
With a short sight radius, the Recluse isn’t fit to operate in tight groups at distance. It’s a close-range defensive tool, and within that role, it performs well.
The Recluse also has more bite, as it is chambered in .22 Magnum. For such a light weapon, the recoil is very noticeable, especially for such a small firearm. NAA was able to address this with an improvement that makes it one of the top-level versions of the Recluse:
The Oversized Grip
Unlike the traditional birdshead grips found on many NAA mini-revolvers, the grip on the Recluse is thicker and more ergonomic. It has a significant impact on both control and shootability.
Better purchase in the hand. Improved recoil management. More confidence during follow-up shots.
It takes time to get used to—this isn’t a full-size handgun—but a better grip can make it much simpler than many ultra-compact options.
Carry & Concealment Considerations
Carrying a mini-revolver like the Recluse comes with its own set of considerations. While its small size is a major advantage, it also introduces some trade-offs.
Pros: Extremely compact and lightweight. Easy to conceal in a pocket, ankle rig, or deep concealment setup. Simple manual of arms. Considerations: Limited capacity (five rounds). Slower reload compared to semi-autos. Short sight radius affects accuracy. Requires practice to handle effectively under stress.
Because of its size, the Recluse excels as:
A backup gun (BUG) A deep concealment option A last-resort defensive tool
It isn’t meant to replace a full-size carry pistol, but it fills a niche that many firearms simply can’t.
The “Cool Factor”
Let’s be honest—part of the appeal here is the sheer cool factor.
A tiny revolver chambered in .22 Magnum just feels right. It’s a conversation starter, a throwback, and a modern defensive tool all rolled into one.
NAA leans into that appeal by including a lockable metal case with the Recluse. This isn’t just a nice touch—it adds real value:
Secure storage option Ideal for transport Adds a premium feel to the package
It’s a small detail, but one that reinforces the idea that this is more than just a novelty—it’s a thoughtfully designed product.
Why Dealers Should Stock the NAA Recluse
From a retail perspective, the Recluse checks several important boxes.
- Unique Product Offering
This isn’t just another polymer-framed handgun. It stands out in the display case and draws attention from customers looking for something different.
- Broad Customer Appeal
First-time buyers looking for simple operation Experienced shooters wanting a backup gun Collectors interested in Old West-inspired firearms
- Strong Impulse Buy Potential
Its compact size, distinctive design, and relatively approachable price point make it an easy add-on purchase.
- Brand Reputation
North American Arms has built a solid reputation for quality mini-revolvers. That trust carries over to the Recluse.
- Great for Gift Purchases
Between the presentation case and unique design, it makes for a memorable gift item—especially around holidays.
Final Thoughts
The North American Arms Recluse .22 Mag is a fascinating blend of history and innovation. It takes the spirit of the Old West derringer and reimagines it through the lens of modern firearm design.
It’s not a gun for every situation—and it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it excels in its intended role: close-range, ultra-concealable defense with rock-solid revolver reliability.
Add in the improved grip, the punch of .22 Magnum, and the undeniable cool factor, and you’ve got a firearm that’s as enjoyable to own as it is practical in the right context.
For shooters, it’s a niche tool worth understanding. For dealers, it’s a standout product worth carrying.
And for anyone who appreciates the evolution of firearms—from the riverboats of the 1800s to today’s concealed carry world—the Recluse tells a pretty compelling story.
For dealer purchases visit www.davidsonsinc.com
For consumer purchases visit www.galleryofguns.com
