New For 2024: Diamondback Self-Defense Revolver (SDR)

by
posted on May 18, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Diamondback SDR 01A
Images courtesy of Diamondback Firearms.

While most known for its AR-15 and AR-10 pattern firearms, Florida manufacturer Diamondback Firearms got its start in 2009 with handguns with the DB380. New for 2024, the company has another unique addition to its line-up of personal protection handguns with the Self-Defense Revolver (SDR).

Right side of the Diamondback Self-Defense RevolverThe SDR is a compact revolver that holds six rounds of .357 Magnum.

The SDR is a compact double-action revolver with a swing-out cylinder chambered in .357 Magnum. Despite its compact size, the SDR has a capacity of six rounds, with its chambers chamfered for quicker loading. Opening the action is accomplished with a push-button cylinder release that operates much like the magazine release on a semi-automatic handgun. The cylinder and crane assembly is captured and can be removed from the frame by pushing a release button. Its action is double-action/single-action, with an exposed hammer for cocking in single-action mode. Diamondback calls the trigger “match grade,” and it is engineered for a smooth non-stacking pull and clean break.   

A push-button cylinder release shown on the left side of the Diamondback SDR revolver.The SDR’s cylinder release is a push button.

A highlighted push-button release on the front of the trigger guard for the Diamondback SDR's cylinder crane.The cylinder and crane assembly of the SDR can be removed after pushing a release button.

Major components of the SDR are made of stainless steel, including the barrel, cylinder and forged frame, which are given a high-polished finish. The 2” barrel has a full underlug that shrouds the ejector rod, and its muzzle is given a 45-degree target crown. With an overall length of 6.53”, height of 4.44” and a cylinder width of 1.38”, the SDR weighs 21.2 ozs. The entire package is contoured and streamlined to save weight and optimize the shape for concealed carry. 

A front view of the Diamondback SDR revolver.The muzzle of the SDR has a target crown.

While compact revolvers are not known for having good sighting systems, the SDR use a front post with an orange fiber-optic insert that is pinned in place and a rear notch with two contrasting green fiber-optic inserts fitted into a dovetail in the frame’s top strap. Grips are of a “boot” profile and made of rubber with a pebble grain texture and are compatible with a J-frame-type revolver. The SDR will also fit in a holster sized for a J-frame.

Details of the high-visibility sights on top of the Diamondback SDR revolver.Sights on the SDR use three fiber-optic light pipes.

The Diamondback Firearms SDR has an MSRP of $777. For more information, visit diamondbackfirearms.com.

Latest

Gotw Marlin 1894 Trapper 10Mm 1
Gotw Marlin 1894 Trapper 10Mm 1

Gun of the Week: Marlin Firearms Model 1894 Trapper 10 mm

One of the latest Marlin lever-action rifles on the market is the Model 1894 Trapper, and the company now offers the platform in a 10 mm Auto chambering.

Scout Rifle World Shoot Recap

There’s lot to learn about the Scout Rifle, and we tested one at the inaugural Scout Rifle World Shoot.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 6, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Six-Hour Gun: Saving a Family Heirloom

Simple math would have told anyone it wasn't worth fixing a $150 revolver. But to one family, this simple, common revolver meant everything.

Idaho Voters Choose the Winchester Model 1873 for their Official State Firearm

On November 3, Idaho voters picked the Winchester Model 1873 rifle (nicknamed the “Gun that Won the West,” in .44-40 cal.) as the leading candidate to be their state firearm.

PROOF Research Opens New Montana Facility

PROOF Research held a grand opening of its new manufacturing facility in Columbia Falls, Mont. at the end of October.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.