Small, easily concealable handguns chambered for the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire cartridge offer a balance of power and portability. These firearms are typically constructed with barrels shorter than four inches and designed for close-range personal defense.
The .22 WMR cartridge delivers significantly more energy than the .22 Long Rifle, making it a more effective defensive round. This increased ballistic performance, combined with a compact size, makes such firearms a popular choice for concealed carry. The development of this cartridge in 1959 filled a perceived gap between the .22 LR and more powerful centerfire rounds. The demand for easily concealable firearms contributed to the development and continued popularity of these handguns.