If you’re packing for the range or keeping something affordable in the nightstand, the Heritage Arms Rough Rider .22 LR 6.5″ 9rd Cocobolo is a straight shooter that won’t break the bank. This single-action revolver gives you a solid sight radius with its 6.5-inch barrel and a 9-round cylinder, all wrapped in genuine cocobolo grips. At $175.58, it’s a low-stakes way to practice fundamentals, plink with friends, or keep a reliable .22 on hand for small-game duty. No frills, just function.
| Manufacturer | Heritage Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Rough Rider |
| Material | Steel frame, cocobolo grips (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .22 LR ammunition |
| Finish | Blued steel |
| Weight | Approximately 31 oz (unloaded, per Heritage data) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Single-Action Trigger — Why it matters: A crisp, consistent pull every time builds accuracy and helps you learn trigger discipline without overthinking it.
- 6.5″ Barrel — Why it matters: That extra sight radius gives you a clearer sight picture for tight groups at the range, while keeping the revolver manageable for a range bag or glovebox.
- 9-Round Cylinder — Why it matters: More rounds between reloads means more time shooting and less time fumbling with loose ammo. Perfect for plinking or a quick defensive load.
- Cocobolo Grips — Why it matters: Hardwood grips absorb recoil and give you a secure hold, even with sweaty hands. Plus, they look sharp without screaming for attention.
- Fixed Sights — Why it matters: Zero snag points and zero adjustment needed. You draw, you aim, you shoot. No batteries, no tools.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the urban shooter who wants a low-cost trainer that doubles as a reliable plinker. Apartment dwellers, CCW holders looking for a .22 to practice fundamentals, and anyone who appreciates a classic single-action feel without the cowboy price tag. If you’re new to revolvers or just want something that doesn’t need constant maintenance, the Rough Rider fits your lane.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Price — At $175.58, it’s one of the most affordable .22 revolvers on the market. You can buy two and still have cash for ammo.
- Pro: Light recoil — .22 LR is easy on the wrists, making it ideal for new shooters or long range sessions.
- Con: Single-action only — You have to manually cock the hammer for each shot. That slows down follow-ups, so it’s not ideal for high-speed defensive drills. But for deliberate practice, it’s a feature.
Comparison
| Feature | Heritage Rough Rider | Ruger Wrangler | Smith & Wesson 617 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $175.58 | ~$250 | ~$800 |
| Capacity | 9 rounds | 6 rounds | 10 rounds |
| Action | Single-action only | Single-action only | Double-action |
| Barrel length | 6.5″ | 4.6″ or 6.5″ | 6″ |
| Grips | Cocobolo wood | Synthetic | Rubber |
| Weight | ~31 oz | ~30 oz | ~40 oz |
FAQ
Is the Heritage Arms Rough Rider .22 LR 6.5″ 9rd Cocobolo safe for new shooters?
Absolutely. The .22 LR round has minimal recoil, and the single-action trigger forces deliberate handling. Just follow basic revolver safety: keep the hammer down on an empty chamber until you’re ready to shoot.
Can I use this revolver for home defense?
It can work in a pinch, but understand the limitations. .22 LR lacks stopping power compared to 9mm or .38 Special. The single-action mechanism also requires cocking before each shot, which slows you down. For an apartment where overpenetration is a concern, it’s better than nothing, but we recommend a modern defensive firearm for primary home defense.
Does the Rough Rider come with a manual safety?
No, it doesn’t have a manual safety. The hammer notch and half-cock positions serve as the safety. Always load only five rounds and rest the hammer on an empty chamber for safe carry.
What kind of ammo does this revolver shoot best?
Standard-velocity .22 LR works flawlessly. High-velocity rounds are fine too, but stick with quality brands like CCI or Federal. Avoid subsonic or hyper-velocity loads if you want reliable ignition every time.
Trust & Delivery
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Looking to complete your kit? Check out our .22 LR ammunition or browse more revolvers for home defense. If you need a holster, we’ve got holsters that fit single-action revolvers.
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