HM2PAC
Member
S & w 22-a
I'm purchasing my first .22 handgun. I'd like your input.
- Thread starter Intrepid Dad
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3KillerBs
Member
A .22 list without a Ruger Mark III on it?
Intrepid Dad
Member
3KillerBs says:
You are not alone. I get that a lot.
All I can say is that my thinking at the time was that I wanted a .22 that felt and looked like a "real" gun. I've been very surprised at the passionate responses of all the Ruger MKxx and Browning Buckmark lovers.
There's no doubt that the contributions of everyone here has me rethinking my position. I'd like to track the responses and the poll for at least one more day and then give an update on my current thinking. I can say without a doubt that I'm very grateful to everyone who's contributed to this discussion. I'll post again tomorrow night.
You are not alone. I get that a lot.
All I can say is that my thinking at the time was that I wanted a .22 that felt and looked like a "real" gun. I've been very surprised at the passionate responses of all the Ruger MKxx and Browning Buckmark lovers.
There's no doubt that the contributions of everyone here has me rethinking my position. I'd like to track the responses and the poll for at least one more day and then give an update on my current thinking. I can say without a doubt that I'm very grateful to everyone who's contributed to this discussion. I'll post again tomorrow night.
zignal_zero
Member
I'm with the majority here, the MK series from Ruger is difficult to beat. If you do decide to reconsider them, look specifically at the factory threaded 22/45 with replaceable grip panels. I've had a handful of 22's (my favorite Cal actually) and the best one has been the 22/45. Plus, later on, you can get a suppressor for it.
If you are totally opposed to Ruger MK's, take a look at the Walther P22.
If you are totally opposed to Ruger MK's, take a look at the Walther P22.
There is no more of a "real gun" than a Ruger Mk. If you get any of those .22 "combat trainer" guns, you ought to know that the slide is zinc or aluminum, and if you ride a high thumb, the gun will jam. The Ruger is a real gun, really designed for .22LR, made to be accurate, durable and reliable.
Of the guns you listed, I'd be inclined to go for the SW revolver. Always wanted one, and if I ever get around to selling all the "bargain" (junk) guns I have acquired over the years, I may get one, yet. Althought, I'd be more likely to buy a second Ruger, TBH. I want a second one with the short, tapered barrel for lighter carry.
One of the best reasons to get a Ruger/Browning/SW22A is the McFadden Ultimate Cliploader. It rocks.
Of the guns you listed, I'd be inclined to go for the SW revolver. Always wanted one, and if I ever get around to selling all the "bargain" (junk) guns I have acquired over the years, I may get one, yet. Althought, I'd be more likely to buy a second Ruger, TBH. I want a second one with the short, tapered barrel for lighter carry.
One of the best reasons to get a Ruger/Browning/SW22A is the McFadden Ultimate Cliploader. It rocks.
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MCgunner
Member
RUGER Mk 2! Okay, Mk 3 if you can't find a good used Mk 2.
aprayinbear
Member
Don't hate me but............
Sorry Guys,
But I'm not a Ruger fan. Sure you can trick one out, and create a beauty, and the standard models are nice as well. But if I could drop $400-$500 on a .22 I'd go for a classic High Standard. Choose a Hamden model and you have a real heirloom which can win matches. And... take-down is a breeze compared to the Ruger. Just one more option!
Sorry Guys,
But I'm not a Ruger fan. Sure you can trick one out, and create a beauty, and the standard models are nice as well. But if I could drop $400-$500 on a .22 I'd go for a classic High Standard. Choose a Hamden model and you have a real heirloom which can win matches. And... take-down is a breeze compared to the Ruger. Just one more option!
Steve CT
Member
Maybe make a decision on action type?
My Dan Wesson 722 is a exceptionally accurate with great consistency. I really like the interchangeable barrel length feature.
After owning half a dozen different .22 autos my favorite is the Buckmark, but it's pretty much a tossup between that one and the MK II.
My Dan Wesson 722 is a exceptionally accurate with great consistency. I really like the interchangeable barrel length feature.
After owning half a dozen different .22 autos my favorite is the Buckmark, but it's pretty much a tossup between that one and the MK II.
MCgunner
Member
My plain ol' Mk2 will put 10 rounds into an inch at 50 yards. It out shoots some rifles including its 10/22 stable mate. Okay, that's not sayin' much, just sayin'...
The only thing done to my Mk 2 is a 2x optic. Thst's why I can put 10 into an inch at 50 with my antique eyes.
Got 7 rugers, am a ruger fanboy. I should have 8, but I let my SIL buy his SP101 back. I kinda want another one. That thing is awesome.$275 dollars at a gun show WITH scope and mount and no paperwork.
If I get another .22 auto, it'll probably be a Buckmark cause they're good guns and I don't own one.
Intrepid Dad
Member
I'm extremely pleased with all the great contributions made in this thread. I wanted to share my thinking with you at this point now that many of you have given me your perspective.
Of the four handguns I have listed in the poll, I was actually leaning towards the Sig 1911-22. Both the Sig and the GSG model, which are close to being the same, seem to have good reviews on YouTube (yeah, I know it's not GunBlast but you do get the see the guns in action). I figured the Sig would be a relatively low-cost entry into the .22 handgun arena and it has the feel of a regular handgun. The S&W 617 is the gun I'd like to have but the thought of putting some of that money towards a Marlin 30-30 has kept me from signing off on that purchase. And as some of you have noted, if I go the revolver route I may be able to find a used model from the "golden age of double-action revolvers".
Now that I've received all of this great input from my fellow High Roaders, here's where I'm at. I feel compelled to revisit the Ruger MK and Browning Buckmark series based on all the recommendations I've received. I have to confess that I've held both before and I like the feel of the Browning better, but as one poster noted it's possible to replace the Ruger grips, so I'll have to think about that.
The other option I want to pursue is to look at the Ruger SP101 revolver. I need to find out where I can look at one of those since I didn't even know that Ruger made one. From the pictures it does look like the grip is on the small side, but again, I may be able to do something about that post-purchase.
I'll continue monitoring this thread for any additional input. I will also be sure to post pictures of my .22 handgun (whatever I get) when I purchase it. I saw there is another thread on "Black Friday" sales which made me think there could be some good deals on the very handguns we're discussing.
Thanks to all who've contributed so far. Once again you've proven why it's great to be part of The High Road community.
Intrepid Dad
Of the four handguns I have listed in the poll, I was actually leaning towards the Sig 1911-22. Both the Sig and the GSG model, which are close to being the same, seem to have good reviews on YouTube (yeah, I know it's not GunBlast but you do get the see the guns in action). I figured the Sig would be a relatively low-cost entry into the .22 handgun arena and it has the feel of a regular handgun. The S&W 617 is the gun I'd like to have but the thought of putting some of that money towards a Marlin 30-30 has kept me from signing off on that purchase. And as some of you have noted, if I go the revolver route I may be able to find a used model from the "golden age of double-action revolvers".
Now that I've received all of this great input from my fellow High Roaders, here's where I'm at. I feel compelled to revisit the Ruger MK and Browning Buckmark series based on all the recommendations I've received. I have to confess that I've held both before and I like the feel of the Browning better, but as one poster noted it's possible to replace the Ruger grips, so I'll have to think about that.
The other option I want to pursue is to look at the Ruger SP101 revolver. I need to find out where I can look at one of those since I didn't even know that Ruger made one. From the pictures it does look like the grip is on the small side, but again, I may be able to do something about that post-purchase.
I'll continue monitoring this thread for any additional input. I will also be sure to post pictures of my .22 handgun (whatever I get) when I purchase it. I saw there is another thread on "Black Friday" sales which made me think there could be some good deals on the very handguns we're discussing.
Thanks to all who've contributed so far. Once again you've proven why it's great to be part of The High Road community.
Intrepid Dad
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hammerklavier
Member
Buy a .22 conversion kit for your sig, and then buy a real .22 like a Ruger or even a S&W 22a (it's NOT an M&P).
Like so many others I have to encourage consideration of a Ruger Standard Model or MkII or MKIII... They make precision shooting possible and a joy. Pop clay Pigeons at 100 yards and watch non-pistoleers' mouths drop open. For a fun economical .22 autoloader the Bersa Thunder .22 is excellent (They seem to require a couple hundred rounds to settle in but then provide decent accuracy and loads of plinking fun in a compact package). I have played with various 1911 style .22s. They are fun but the accuracy just isn't enough to please me. The Browning Buckmark is almost as good as the Ruger for precise bullet placement.
On your list the Smith 617 has the most appeal to me...but a friend has one that is disappointing (Tennis ball size groups at 20 yards from a rest) The Taurus Tracker .22s generally shoot quite well. and are less costly wheelguns.
Of course there are many used .22 handguns that can please...old High Standards, H& Rs etc.
On your list the Smith 617 has the most appeal to me...but a friend has one that is disappointing (Tennis ball size groups at 20 yards from a rest) The Taurus Tracker .22s generally shoot quite well. and are less costly wheelguns.
Of course there are many used .22 handguns that can please...old High Standards, H& Rs etc.
wickedsprint
Member
I voted "other". My actual vote would be for a Buckmark in the non-camper variety to avoid the plastic sight base.
RUT
Member
>>For a new wheelgun, I'd give the Ruger SP101 a look.<<
Ditto that.............
Ditto that.............
almherdfan
Member
Love the Ruger Mk. II/III. Really like the Walther P22. Heck, with a good spring, my Phoenix Arms 22 is a nice shooter.
Intrepid Dad
Member
Update on my latest thinking
Hi Everyone,
Thanks again for all the posts on my future .22lr handgun. I had a chance to visit some stores and hold a variety of guns that we've been talking about and that you've recommended. I'll start of with the not so positive and then end on a higher note.
I looked at the Ruger SP101 22 revolver. As you would expect, the Ruger is very well made. I really wanted to like this gun, but as I suspected from the picture the grip is on the small side. It wouldn't be impossible to use by any stretch, but it didn't feel that comfortable either. I might be able to buy a larger grip for it. It also felt slightly barrel heavy, but not enough to be a deal breaker. Too bad really, because it's a beautiful gun and priced around $500. I wouldn't mind owning one if I could solve the grip issue.
I once again held various Browning Buckmarks. The grips on these Brownings are good for my hand. They're very comfortable. I really like the one with the fiber optic sites and could easily be happy with any of them.
I held a Ruger Mark III 22/45. Nice grip angle but the grip itself felt really skinny, uncomfortably so. I could live with it, but again, I really like something that feels great in my hand.
I also held the Ruger Mark III Hunter in stainless steel and a 6 and 7/8 inch fluted barrel. I've attached a picture of this gun. This gun felt very good in my hand. The grip was totally different from the 22/45 and felt much fuller. Despite the longer barrel, it felt well balanced and not barrel heavy at all.
I'd like to get anyone's experience with this specific gun. It's Ruger model 10118. Here's a link to the Ruger site:
http://www.ruger.com/products/markIIIHunter/models.html
Specifically, how well does this gun process a variety of ammo? Do you need to stick with the high quality stuff or will it also shoot bulk ammo. I assume the accuracy is good but would like any comments.
As an aside, I see there is fairly strong support for the S&W 617 10-shot revolver. It's not out of the running yet but at this point I think the main competition is the Ruger Mark III Hunter.
As always, any insight is greatly appreciated. I look forward to your comments.
Hi Everyone,
Thanks again for all the posts on my future .22lr handgun. I had a chance to visit some stores and hold a variety of guns that we've been talking about and that you've recommended. I'll start of with the not so positive and then end on a higher note.
I looked at the Ruger SP101 22 revolver. As you would expect, the Ruger is very well made. I really wanted to like this gun, but as I suspected from the picture the grip is on the small side. It wouldn't be impossible to use by any stretch, but it didn't feel that comfortable either. I might be able to buy a larger grip for it. It also felt slightly barrel heavy, but not enough to be a deal breaker. Too bad really, because it's a beautiful gun and priced around $500. I wouldn't mind owning one if I could solve the grip issue.
I once again held various Browning Buckmarks. The grips on these Brownings are good for my hand. They're very comfortable. I really like the one with the fiber optic sites and could easily be happy with any of them.
I held a Ruger Mark III 22/45. Nice grip angle but the grip itself felt really skinny, uncomfortably so. I could live with it, but again, I really like something that feels great in my hand.
I also held the Ruger Mark III Hunter in stainless steel and a 6 and 7/8 inch fluted barrel. I've attached a picture of this gun. This gun felt very good in my hand. The grip was totally different from the 22/45 and felt much fuller. Despite the longer barrel, it felt well balanced and not barrel heavy at all.
I'd like to get anyone's experience with this specific gun. It's Ruger model 10118. Here's a link to the Ruger site:
http://www.ruger.com/products/markIIIHunter/models.html
Specifically, how well does this gun process a variety of ammo? Do you need to stick with the high quality stuff or will it also shoot bulk ammo. I assume the accuracy is good but would like any comments.
As an aside, I see there is fairly strong support for the S&W 617 10-shot revolver. It's not out of the running yet but at this point I think the main competition is the Ruger Mark III Hunter.
As always, any insight is greatly appreciated. I look forward to your comments.
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22-rimfire
Member
I have a Ruger Mark II with 5.5" bull barrel. The Mark III version is about the same (slight differences). It is a fine 22 pistol. I bought it for plinking, light target shooting, perhaps hunting small game, and as more of a daily substitute for my High Standard Victor which I used to use the same way. Love the 5-5.5" barrel length on these and they don't feel barrel heavy at all; just perfetly balanced. I've handled the Hunter version and I like it. But really feel I would be happier in the long run with the shorter barrel for field carry.
I want to pick up a Ruger 45/22 with the bull barrel to add to my pile. I like the grip angle and it balances very nicely in my hand.
All that aside, the S&W M617 is a premium DA 22 revolver. I have have its predacessors in the M17 and M18. Great DA 22 revolvers! Expensive, but if you want a good DA 22 revolver, I think they are worth the price and are a lifetime investment in good reliable shooting. I voted for the M617 in the poll.
The S&W M63 is another that is nice. Currently made in a 3", but previously it was made with a 5" barrel. Fine little revolver. You will find the grips a bit small. I would like to get the 3", but I never see them in a store. Needless to say, I really don't need another 22 revolver, but that has never stopped me before.
I have yet to handle the new Ruger SP-101 in 22. I know that I'll want to like it. But there is no question that it is not a Smith or Colt.
The older Colts in 22... You can't go wrong with a Diamondback, Offiers Model Match, or Trooper Mark III assuming they feel good in your hand. The 4" Diamonback (blue) is my favorite 22 revolver, but the Smiths come real close.
The Browning Buckmarks are very good and reliable.
Good luck with your choice.
... or 2nd choice. I agree that its hard to only have one 22 handgun. I started with a Colt Diamondback and the Victor as my "pair". Now I have more than a couple pairs.
I want to pick up a Ruger 45/22 with the bull barrel to add to my pile. I like the grip angle and it balances very nicely in my hand.
All that aside, the S&W M617 is a premium DA 22 revolver. I have have its predacessors in the M17 and M18. Great DA 22 revolvers! Expensive, but if you want a good DA 22 revolver, I think they are worth the price and are a lifetime investment in good reliable shooting. I voted for the M617 in the poll.
The S&W M63 is another that is nice. Currently made in a 3", but previously it was made with a 5" barrel. Fine little revolver. You will find the grips a bit small. I would like to get the 3", but I never see them in a store. Needless to say, I really don't need another 22 revolver, but that has never stopped me before.
I have yet to handle the new Ruger SP-101 in 22. I know that I'll want to like it. But there is no question that it is not a Smith or Colt.
The older Colts in 22... You can't go wrong with a Diamondback, Offiers Model Match, or Trooper Mark III assuming they feel good in your hand. The 4" Diamonback (blue) is my favorite 22 revolver, but the Smiths come real close.
The Browning Buckmarks are very good and reliable.
Good luck with your choice.
... or 2nd choice. I agree that its hard to only have one 22 handgun. I started with a Colt Diamondback and the Victor as my "pair". Now I have more than a couple pairs.
hirundo82
Member
Finding aftermarket grips for the SP101 is no issue at all--Midway has dozens of choices for starters. I've had good luck with the Hogue Monogrip.
That said, you can't go wrong with a Buckmark or any of the Ruger autos either.
That said, you can't go wrong with a Buckmark or any of the Ruger autos either.
Intrepid Dad
Member
Cokeman said:
The one I handled had the all black grip. It was thin like a 1911 grip.
hirundo82 said:
Thanks hirundo82. I'll check that out to see what options are possible.
And thanks to 22-rimfire and azgun for your comments.
The one I handled had the all black grip. It was thin like a 1911 grip.
hirundo82 said:
Thanks hirundo82. I'll check that out to see what options are possible.
And thanks to 22-rimfire and azgun for your comments.
7even6ix2wo
Member
Walther p22 is good bang for the buck.
pashacavanna
Member
I have to agree with the inions given and apologies to the op for ignoring instructions...
I would have a hard time coosing between a Ruger Mark II/III and a Buckmark. In the end it would come down to the best deal.
I would have a hard time coosing between a Ruger Mark II/III and a Buckmark. In the end it would come down to the best deal.
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