S&W Model 22A - A Good Buy?

[CannonFodder]

I've been looking to add another .22 pistol to my collection. I currently have a Walther P22 that I greatly enjoy, but I'd like something with a bit more of a "target" focus. So far, the pistol that's been showing up in the local shops with the best price/features has been the 22A, both new and used.

I happened upon a 22A with the 5.5" barrel for 200 bucks. I nearly went for it, except for two reasons:

I noticed powder fouling in the breach - the gun was still dirty. Second, I had no idea what the long-term quality of 22A's was - so, naturally, THR, I'm asking you.

Besides the fouling (which looked like all it needed was a strip and clean), the pistol looked good. Is $200 USD a good price for a used 22A?

Would it be worth putting on layaway for that price, since my local pistol range is down for renovations for the month?

Thankee sai

 

[Scottmkiv]

I vote for a buckmark (not the camper model) or a ruger Mark II depending on which grip angle you like better.

I haven't been that impressed with the 22A.

 

[CannonFodder]

Any reasons why?

 

[greener]

The 22A is reliable and can be fired quite accurately. I have one with ~12k rounds on the 5.5" barrel and ~3k rounds on the 7" barrel. I had a problem with the firing pin at about 9k rounds, fixed by S&W at no cost.

$200 may not be a bad price in your area for a used 22A. However, I've seen them on sale for $200-$230 new. I paid $175 for mine (new) about 3 years ago.

I have a 22A, 4 Rugers, Buck Mark and P22. I enjoy shooting them all. The P22 just doesn't match the rest in quality or ability to shoot accurately. I'd give the 22A and Rugers and edge over the Buck Mark. No real reason other than personal preference, the buck Mark is an excellent pistol.

 

[bgeddes]

I bought one new this summer for $225. I really enjoy shooting it and so does the wife. It has been super reliable on any kind of ammo I have run through it.

 

[BlisteringSilence]

I also bought one this summer, and am in love with it. I picked it up for $200, but mine came with 7 magazines.

Reliability wise, I've had zero problems, and it shoots like a dream. I need to get a scope for it. My only complaint is that the front sight is so big, it obscures the target at 50 yards.

 

[Soybomb]

I have one and like it just fine. I do with the front sight were changeable but thats a small complaint. Its a S&W gun so it comes with a lifetime warranty and S&W pays for shipping even.

 

[camsdaddy]

I have had one for years. It has run effortlessly on thousands of rounds and has normally been shot dirtier than any other firearm I own. I did have an issue with the top rail cracking I was discussing this with S&W cust serv one day and they sent me a new one on my word. I am very happy it has helped to teach many people how to shoot.

 

[crankshop1000]

Buy it!! I love mine. Put a cheap red dot on it and have some fun.Easy to take apart and clean too.Just get a few extra recoil buffers (about $1.00 each) and replace them as they get beat up (every 2000 rds or so).