Picture this: a lightweight 25-ounce .22 revolver that slides into your back pocket and is ready for action when you are. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a backyard plinker, that’s the kind of utility and versatility you can’t ignore. A couple of years ago, Diamondback Firearms introduced the Sidekick revolver, a 4-inch barrel plinker that quickly gained a reputation as a solid, affordable, and fun-to-shoot option. But they didn’t stop there.
Enter the updated version: a 3-inch barrel, birdshead grip model that takes everything great about the original and trims it down for even better portability. With its lightweight frame, vintage-inspired grip, and practical design, this is a revolver that ticks all the right boxes for a carry-friendly .22. Let’s dig into what makes the Diamondback Sidekick stand out and why it deserves a place in your collection.
If the Sidekick feels like a nostalgic nod to the past, that’s by design. Its silhouette pays homage to classic revolvers like the High Standard Double Nine and Sentinel, firearms revered for their mix of style and reliability. These guns combined cowboy-era aesthetics with modern features like swing-out cylinders and double-action triggers, offering shooters a practical yet stylish option for everything from training to plinking.
Diamondback took this proven formula and gave it a modern upgrade. The original Sidekick included a faux ejector rod to maintain its vintage look. The 3-inch model streamlines the design by ditching the faux rod, keeping the focus on functionality without sacrificing the gun’s charming aesthetic.
The revolver’s swing-out cylinder is a game-changer for those accustomed to single-action rimfire guns. Loading, firing, and ejecting spent cartridges are all faster and more efficient, making the Sidekick a perfect training tool or casual shooter.
Let’s address the obvious question: why bother with a .22 revolver in the first place? The answer is simple—versatility and accessibility. Whether you’re teaching a new shooter, sharpening your own skills, or just looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy a day at the range, a .22 revolver fits the bill.
For beginners, the Sidekick offers a user-friendly introduction to firearm safety and marksmanship. Its intuitive operation and manageable recoil allow newcomers to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
For experienced shooters, it’s all about fun. The Sidekick is a joy to shoot, and its ability to chamber .22 short, long, and long rifle ammunition adds a layer of versatility you won’t find in semi-auto pistols. Even quirky loads like .22 CB caps or shotshells are fair game. This flexibility makes the Sidekick not only a plinker’s dream but also a handy tool for pest control or small game hunting.
The Sidekick blends classic design with modern construction. Its Cerakote finish is not only visually appealing but also highly durable, ensuring the revolver can handle regular use without losing its luster. The checkered plastic grips are practical and offer a secure hold, even during extended shooting sessions.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Sidekick is its affordability. With a retail price hovering just over $300, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Savvy shoppers can often find it for under $290, making it a no-brainer for those looking to add a reliable .22 to their arsenal.
The Sidekick’s fixed sights—a simple top strap groove and a post front sight—are straightforward and functional. The single-action trigger pull is surprisingly crisp for an entry-level revolver, breaking cleanly at just over 4 pounds.
The double-action trigger, however, is a different story. Tipping the scales at nearly 16 pounds, it’s a hefty pull that requires some effort. That said, mastering the Sidekick’s double-action trigger is a great way to improve your overall shooting technique. If you can handle this, you’ll find most other revolvers a breeze to operate.
One of the Sidekick’s standout features is its dual-caliber capability. While interchangeable cylinders are common in single-action revolvers, they’re a rarity in double-action designs due to the precision fitting required. Diamondback has managed to overcome this challenge with modern manufacturing techniques, offering a seamless swap between .22 LR and .22 Magnum.
Switching cylinders is a straightforward process. Depress a button on the frame, slide out the current cylinder, and pop in the new one. It’s quick, intuitive, and adds a layer of versatility that enhances the revolver’s value. Just keep an eye on the spring-loaded plunger during the swap—it’s not a major concern but worth noting.
When it comes to performance, the Sidekick doesn’t disappoint. With nearly 600 rounds through the 3-inch model, I can confidently say it’s a reliable and enjoyable shooter. The majority of my ammo was high-velocity 40-grain .22 LR, a common and affordable choice that pairs well with this revolver.
The Sidekick excels as a plinker. Its lightweight frame and manageable recoil make it ideal for casual shooting, whether you’re knocking down tin cans, spinning steel targets, or playing around with carnival-style paper targets.
For practical use, the Sidekick shines in pest control scenarios. At ranges of 10 yards or less, it’s plenty accurate for dispatching rodents, snakes, or other small nuisances. If you’ve ever had a mole invasion, you’ll appreciate the utility of a revolver that’s accurate, reliable, and quick to deploy.
Swapping to the .22 Magnum cylinder takes the Sidekick up a notch. While recoil remains negligible, the increased muzzle blast and improved ballistics make Magnum loads a solid choice for slightly larger pests or close-range defense against small predators. Hornady’s Critical Defense .22 Magnum rounds are particularly well-suited for this application, delivering consistent performance in a short-barrel revolver.
On the bench, the Sidekick holds its own. At 15 yards, it delivered respectable groups for a fixed-sight revolver with a short sight radius. It’s not a target pistol, but it’s more than adequate for its intended purposes.
In real-world scenarios, the Sidekick’s accuracy and reliability make it a dependable companion. Whether you’re clearing out pests around the homestead or enjoying a leisurely day at the range, this revolver gets the job done.
After spending considerable time with the Diamondback Sidekick, I can confidently say it’s a standout in the world of .22 revolvers. Its combination of classic aesthetics, modern features, and dual-caliber flexibility makes it a versatile tool that’s as practical as it is fun to shoot.
At just over $300, it offers exceptional value for a double-action revolver, especially when you consider its reliability and ease of use. Whether you’re a novice looking for a training gun, a seasoned shooter in search of a plinker, or someone who appreciates a well-made revolver, the Sidekick delivers.
So, if you’re in the market for a lightweight, pocket-friendly revolver that won’t break the bank, give the Sidekick a closer look. It’s a small gun with big appeal, and it might just become your go-to for range days, pest control, or simply enjoying the timeless charm of a well-designed revolver.