Intrepid Dad
Member
Hi everyone,
As the title says, I'm planning to purchase my first .22 handgun. I already own three Springfield XDs (.45/.40./9mm) and a S&W 629 .44 revolver. My primary reason for purchasing the .22 is to be able to shoot a lot more while using cheaper ammo. I'd also like to use a .22 that is somewhat like my EDC (the Springfield XD45) with one exception that you'll note below.
I'm listing a poll but will explain below my choices and the pro's and con's of each, along with the cost in my market area:
1. S&W M&P .22 ($399)
Pro: Most like my Springfield (of the choices I'm considering).
Con: Still has a Windex bottle trigger which is one of the reasons I didn't go with the M&P in the first place.
2. Sig 1911-22 ($399)
Pro: Looks and feels like a "real" gun. Seems to be well made.
Con: It might make me want to buy a real 1911. Costs $50 more than the GSG model imported by ATI but allegedly has better grips.
3. Sig P220 .22 with the option to convert to a .45 ($540)
Pro: Looks and feels like a real gun (hey, it is!)
Con: Unlikely that I'll spend the extra money to get the conversion kit. Mags cost over $40 each if I need replacements. Slide doesn't lock back.
4. S&W 617 4" .22 revolver ($740)
Pro: Finely crafted revolver that I'd be proud to hand down to one of my children. Would complement my S&W .44. There's just something about a shiny, stainless steel revolver that I like. I can't explain it.
Con: Most costly option of the four choices. Also is the furthest away from replicating the feel and action of my EDC.
Now, a word about some other choices that are likely to be mentioned. I looked at the Rugers and Brownings (e.g. Mark III and Camper). I seriously considered a Browning with fiber optic sites, but ultimately decided to look at the four I've listed above.
Also, I've seen many recommendations for a Ruger Single Six. I'm sure they're great guns but I'd prefer either a semi-auto or a revolver with a double action.
Finally, I have money for any of the choices, but one of the lower cost options would let me set aside some money for my designated purchase after the .22. That would be a Marlin lever gun in 30-30.
I'm leaning towards one of the choices but I'd like the opinions of the group before I show my hand. So, if you were in my shoes, which one would you choose? Or, if you can't stand to pick any of them, what other gun should I consider? Please take into consideration what I've written about the Rugers and Brownings.
Thanks to all for your input.
Intrepid Dad
As the title says, I'm planning to purchase my first .22 handgun. I already own three Springfield XDs (.45/.40./9mm) and a S&W 629 .44 revolver. My primary reason for purchasing the .22 is to be able to shoot a lot more while using cheaper ammo. I'd also like to use a .22 that is somewhat like my EDC (the Springfield XD45) with one exception that you'll note below.
I'm listing a poll but will explain below my choices and the pro's and con's of each, along with the cost in my market area:
1. S&W M&P .22 ($399)
Pro: Most like my Springfield (of the choices I'm considering).
Con: Still has a Windex bottle trigger which is one of the reasons I didn't go with the M&P in the first place.
2. Sig 1911-22 ($399)
Pro: Looks and feels like a "real" gun. Seems to be well made.
Con: It might make me want to buy a real 1911. Costs $50 more than the GSG model imported by ATI but allegedly has better grips.
3. Sig P220 .22 with the option to convert to a .45 ($540)
Pro: Looks and feels like a real gun (hey, it is!)
Con: Unlikely that I'll spend the extra money to get the conversion kit. Mags cost over $40 each if I need replacements. Slide doesn't lock back.
4. S&W 617 4" .22 revolver ($740)
Pro: Finely crafted revolver that I'd be proud to hand down to one of my children. Would complement my S&W .44. There's just something about a shiny, stainless steel revolver that I like. I can't explain it.
Con: Most costly option of the four choices. Also is the furthest away from replicating the feel and action of my EDC.
Now, a word about some other choices that are likely to be mentioned. I looked at the Rugers and Brownings (e.g. Mark III and Camper). I seriously considered a Browning with fiber optic sites, but ultimately decided to look at the four I've listed above.
Also, I've seen many recommendations for a Ruger Single Six. I'm sure they're great guns but I'd prefer either a semi-auto or a revolver with a double action.
Finally, I have money for any of the choices, but one of the lower cost options would let me set aside some money for my designated purchase after the .22. That would be a Marlin lever gun in 30-30.
I'm leaning towards one of the choices but I'd like the opinions of the group before I show my hand. So, if you were in my shoes, which one would you choose? Or, if you can't stand to pick any of them, what other gun should I consider? Please take into consideration what I've written about the Rugers and Brownings.
Thanks to all for your input.
Intrepid Dad