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

Shortage
Shortage

Suppressor Demand Outpaces Production

The demand for suppressors is setting new records. National Firearm Act (NFA) item purchases in September—primarily suppressors—more than doubled compared to the same month in 2025.

Book Review | Five Decades of a Fabulous Firearm: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Beretta 92 Pistol Series

In this wide-ranging book, you’ll find a history of Beretta, discussion of developments leading to the Model 1951/951 Brigadier, its evolution into the Model 92 and the U.S. military’s adoption of the platform (as the M9) in 1985.

Review: Galco Revenger Holster & SB7 Gun Belt

For those who choose to carry a finely finished, K-frame revolver, Galco offers one of its finest concealed-carry setups in the form of its Revenger holster and SB7 gun belt.

Rimfire Power: The Primary Arms CLx 1-6x24 mm Riflescope with ACSS 22LR G2 Reticle

Low-power variable optics have become popular options for today's AR-15s and other modern sporting rifles, and Primary Arms now offers an option tailored for rimfire versions of those same guns.

Gun of the Week: Walther Arms PDP F-Series Pro-X PMM

One of Walther Arms' recent introductions combines the features of several other PDP handguns, meaning the Walther PDP F-Series Pro-X PMM is packed with a number of different design elements.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 30, 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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.