A Comprehensive Review of the North American Arms Sentinel Mini Revolver
The North American Arms (NAA) Sentinel Mini Revolver is a popular choice among concealed carry permit holders and firearms enthusiasts alike. This miniature revolver is known for its compact size, lightweight design, and potent.22 Magnum chambering. In this review, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of the NAA Sentinel Mini Revolver to help you decide if it’s the right firearm for your needs.
Design and Features
The NAA Sentinel Mini Revolver is a marvel of modern engineering, with a design that belies its tiny size. Weighing in at just 6.5 ounces and measuring 4.5 inches in length, this revolver is easily concealable in a pocket or purse. The Sentinel’s frame is constructed from durable stainless steel, ensuring a high level of corrosion resistance and durability.
One of the standout features of the Sentinel is its.22 Magnum chambering. While some may dismiss the.22 Magnum as a “mouse gun” caliber, it’s capable of delivering a significant amount of kinetic energy, making it a viable option for self-defense. The revolver’s five-shot cylinder is easily loaded and unloaded, thanks to the Sentinel’s swing-out cylinder design.
Shooting the Sentinel
Shooting the NAA Sentinel Mini Revolver is a unique experience, to say the least. The revolver’s tiny size and light weight make it easy to handle, but the.22 Magnum’s recoil can be snappy. Accuracy is surprisingly good, considering the Sentinel’s compact size. At 7 yards, we were able to achieve groups of around 2-3 inches, which is respectable for a firearm of this size.
One issue we encountered was the Sentinel’s trigger pull. While the trigger itself is smooth and consistent, the pull weight is a bit on the heavy side, which can make accurate shooting more challenging. However, this is a minor quibble, and most shooters will be able to adapt to the Sentinel’s trigger pull with minimal practice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact size: The Sentinel is incredibly small and lightweight, making it easy to conceal in a pocket or purse.
- Potent chambering: The.22 Magnum is a capable self-defense caliber, and the Sentinel’s five-shot cylinder provides a decent amount of firepower.
- Durable construction: The Sentinel’s stainless steel frame ensures a high level of corrosion resistance and durability.
Cons:
- Heavy trigger pull: The Sentinel’s trigger pull is a bit on the heavy side, which can make accurate shooting more challenging.
- Limited range: The.22 Magnum is not a long-range caliber, and the Sentinel’s accuracy suffers at distances beyond 10-15 yards.
- Ammo limitations: The Sentinel is chambered in.22 Magnum, which may not be as readily available as other calibers.
Notes
🔍 Note: While the Sentinel is a capable self-defense firearm, it's essential to remember that it's still a.22 Magnum. Users should always exercise caution and follow proper safety protocols when handling any firearm.
Conclusion
The North American Arms Sentinel Mini Revolver is a unique and capable firearm that’s perfect for concealed carry or as a backup gun. While it may have some limitations, the Sentinel’s compact size, potent chambering, and durable construction make it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and concealable self-defense firearm.
What's the best way to carry the Sentinel?
The Sentinel is small enough to be carried in a pocket or purse, but we recommend using a holster to ensure safe and secure carry. Some popular options include:
- Pocket holsters: These holsters are designed specifically for pocket carry and provide a safe and secure way to carry the Sentinel.
- Ankle holsters: These holsters are perfect for carrying the Sentinel as a backup gun and provide easy access in emergency situations.
- Purse holsters: These holsters are designed for women’s purses and provide a safe and secure way to carry the Sentinel.
What is the best ammo for the Sentinel?
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We recommend using high-quality.22 Magnum ammo from reputable manufacturers like CCI or Remington. These rounds provide a good balance of accuracy and kinetic energy.
How do I clean and maintain the Sentinel?
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The Sentinel is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a soft-bristled brush to clean the barrel and cylinder. Lubricate the moving parts with a few drops of oil, and you’re good to go!
Is the Sentinel suitable for self-defense?
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While the Sentinel is a capable self-defense firearm, it’s essential to remember that it’s still a.22 Magnum. Users should always exercise caution and follow proper safety protocols when handling any firearm. We recommend taking a self-defense course to learn how to effectively use the Sentinel in emergency situations.
