The North American Arms Mini Shadow is a single-action revolver in .22 LR, weighing 4.5 ounces with a 1.125-inch barrel and an overall length of 4.625 inches. Frame and cylinder are both 17-4 pH stainless steel. At that size and weight it disappears in a pocket or ankle holster. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: North American Arms 
• Model: Mini Shadow 
• Caliber: .22 LR 
• Capacity: 5 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 1.125 inches 
• Overall Length: 4.625 inches 
• Weight: 4.5 ounces 
• Finish: Black 
• Grips: Black Rubber 
• Sights: Fixed Front 
• Action Type: Single Action 
• Cylinder Material: 17-4 pH Stainless Steel 
• Frame Material: 17-4 pH Stainless Steel 
• Twist Rate: 1:16 
• Trigger Pull Weight: 4-6 lbs. 
   

Detailed Features 

Being single-action, you manually cock the hammer before each shot. That mechanical reality means the Mini Shadow isn't a fast-draw defensive tool, but it is dead simple and nearly impossible to malfunction through normal handling. The black rubber grips give a better purchase than the factory wood panels on older NAA minis, helping with the short grip-to-trigger geometry. Fixed front sight is adequate for the intended distances — anything past 10-15 feet is optimistic with a 1.125-inch barrel. The 17-4 stainless holds up to carry sweat and occasional exposure without pitting.

The NAA Mini Shadow .22 LR draws consistent feedback from two camps. Owners who bought it as a deep-concealment backup or a last-resort pocket gun tend to be satisfied: the size and weight are genuinely impressive, it disappears in carry, and the stainless construction holds up. The .22 LR caliber is approachable for new shooters and inexpensive to practice with.

The recurring criticisms are caliber-related and capacity-related. The .22 LR stopping power debate is real and legitimate — this isn't a primary defensive handgun, and most knowledgeable reviewers say so plainly. Five rounds of single-action .22 is a modest capability. The grip is also noted as uncomfortable for larger hands; there's not much grip to hold on to at this size.

The consensus in most forums is that the Mini Shadow makes sense as a secondary carry piece or field backup, not as a sole defensive arm. New shooter recommendations tend to steer people toward it for range familiarization rather than primary carry.