Edge Arms Reliant Review

When I first heard about the Edge Arms Reliant, I was intrigued. A four-barreled derringer-style handgun designed for self-defense? That’s not something you see every day!

After spending some time with the Reliant, I can confidently say it’s a fascinating firearm with some notable pros and cons. If you’re in the market for a compact and innovative defensive weapon, the Reliant might be worth your attention, or at least your curiosity.

Bottomline

The Edge Arms Reliant is a solid and reliable choice for close-range self-defense.

Edge Arms Reliant Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Width	Height	Weight
.17 HMR, .22 WMR, .380 ACP	4	2.89″	5.25″	.94″	4.25″	16 oz

Where Did the Edge Arms Reliant Come From?

Edge Arms isn’t exactly a household name, and that’s part of the appeal. This small company set out to create a defensive handgun that broke away from the standard semi-auto or revolver options. The Reliant was designed with simplicity, reliability, and concealability in mind. The idea was to combine the slim profile of a derringer with the practicality of multiple shots. The result? A modern pistol that fits easily into your pocket or purse.

First Impressions: Edge Arms Reliant

When I picked up the Reliant for the first time, I noticed its weight. At about 16 ounces unloaded, it’s heavier than it looks, but that’s thanks to the all-metal construction. The design is sleek and modern, with smooth lines and no protruding parts to snag on clothing. It feels solid in hand, which gives it an air of reliability, though it’s not as ergonomic as some modern subcompacts.

The Reliant uses a double-action-only trigger to fire each of its four barrels. Instead of a rotating cylinder or magazine, it has a fixed barrel block that fires one round at a time in sequence. The gun is chambered in .38 Special, giving it some serious stopping power for its size.

Key Features of the Edge Arms Reliant

• Four-Barrel Design: Fires one .38 Special round at a time in sequence.
• No External Safety: The DAO trigger acts as the safety mechanism.
• Integrated Rail: Allows for attaching a light or laser, which is uncommon for guns this size.
• Metal Construction: Durable but adds weight.
• Slim profile and snag-free design: The Reliant’s slim profile is a huge plus for those looking for a deep-concealment option. It’s easy to slip into a pocket holster or tuck into a small bag without worrying about bulk or printing.
• No Jams or Misfeeds: One of the biggest selling points of the Reliant is its simplicity. With no magazines or moving parts like a slide, there’s virtually no chance of experiencing a jam. For a defensive weapon, that kind of reliability is priceless.

My Personal Take: Is It Worth It?

The Edge Arms Reliant is one of those guns you either love or find impractical. For me, it’s a mixed bag. I admire the innovation and applaud Edge Arms for trying something different in a sea of cookie-cutter concealed-carry guns. The reliability and simplicity are definite wins, and it’s hard to argue with four rounds of .38 Special in such a compact package.

That said, the heavy trigger pull, slow reload time, and limited capacity might be deal-breakers for some. As a primary carry weapon, it’s not my first choice. However, as a backup or a “get off me” gun, it has its merits. It’s also a fun conversation starter at the range, everyone will want to try it out!

Who Should Buy the Reliant?

If you’re a collector or someone who values simplicity and reliability over capacity, the Reliant is worth considering. It’s also a great option for those who want something truly unique in their carry rotation. However, if you’re looking for a high-capacity, easy-to-shoot primary weapon, there are better options out there.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts

The Edge Arms Reliant is a bold take on pocket defense, and while it’s not perfect, it certainly has its niche. If you’re willing to embrace its quirks and limitations, it’s a solid and reliable choice for close-range self-defense. For me, it’s a fun addition to my collection, but I’ll likely stick to my tried-and-true semi-autos for everyday carry. Still, I can’t help but appreciate the creativity and craftsmanship behind this little four-barreled powerhouse.