Single-actions look cool and carry a lot of history, but not every one of them deserves a spot in your safe. Some are overpriced for what they offer, others just don’t hold up after a few boxes of ammo, and a few feel like they were built more for cosplay than serious use. If you’re eyeing one of these, maybe slow down. There are better choices out there, especially if you plan on actually shooting the thing and not just hanging it on the wall.
Heritage Barkeep
The Barkeep might seem like a fun little plinker, but it’s more of a novelty than anything useful. With its tiny barrel and small frame, accuracy suffers right out of the gate.
It also feels a bit cheap in the hand. The grip is cramped, and the fixed sights don’t help. It might be okay for occasional backyard fun, but if you’re looking for a dependable .22 revolver, this one’s probably not it.
Traditions Rawhide
This budget .22 single-action looks the part but feels rough all around. The action is gritty, and the trigger isn’t much better.
Some shooters report timing issues after only a few range trips, and long-term durability is questionable. If you want a .22 for training or casual shooting, there are better-built options for just a little more cash.
Colt Scout
The Scout has the Colt name, but don’t let that fool you. This aluminum-framed .22 lacks the solid feel and performance of other Colt revolvers.
The finish tends to wear fast, and accuracy can be hit or miss depending on the example. You’ll pay more just because it says Colt, but in this case, you’re better off skipping it.
Chiappa SAA 1873-22
Chiappa’s .22 single-actions might look nice from a distance, but once you get your hands on one, the shortcomings show up fast. The zinc-alloy frame feels light and hollow.
The action is often stiff, and long-term wear is a real concern. They’re often priced cheap, but even at a discount, you’re probably not getting your money’s worth.
Ruger Wrangler with Birdshead Grip
The Wrangler series is generally solid, but the birdshead version trades too much control for style. That grip looks neat but feels awkward during actual use.
If you’ve got average or larger hands, it’s even worse. You’ll be adjusting your hold more than shooting. Unless you’re just collecting, the birdshead version is better left alone.
EAA Bounty Hunter
This one’s heavy and clunky in all the wrong ways. While it tries to copy the classic SAA style, the fit and finish don’t inspire much confidence.
Some shooters have reported inconsistent timing and spotty accuracy. It’s not the worst revolver ever made, but there are better options in the same price range without the headaches.
Uberti Stallion
While Uberti usually does solid work, the Stallion in .22 can be hit or miss. It’s smaller and lighter than their other models, but often too light for steady shooting.
The grip can feel cramped, and you might find the sights and trigger aren’t quite up to snuff. If you’re set on a Uberti, go with their full-size guns instead.
Pietta 1873-22
This budget .22 looks appealing, especially if you’re into cowboy-style plinkers. But quality control is inconsistent, and reliability isn’t always there.
Some examples run fine, while others develop timing issues fast. It’s a bit of a gamble, and you might find yourself doing more troubleshooting than shooting.
Cimarron Plinkerton
The Plinkerton is built for affordability, and you can feel it. It uses a mix of metal and plastic parts that make it feel more like a toy than a firearm.
Accuracy is mediocre, and the trigger feels spongy. Even if you just want a fun backyard shooter, this one doesn’t hold up well after some use.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
