Looking for a .22 pistol

[XDMfan40]

So I am about ready for another handgun. I am thinking about getting a .22 for just plinking and target shooting. I don't want to spend to much on one probably no more than $400. Any ideas of what I should get?

 

[achysklic]

ruger Mark III noting else compares.. I would also suggest getting a 22/45 Mark III. you can do a grip mod on it and it feels just like a 1911 and my XD.

 

[tkopp]

Browning Buckmarks compare. I love my Ruger, but the Browning's got a better trigger.

You also might consider the Walther p22 if you're looking for a trainer. It will act more like a larger-cartridged weapon than most .22 autos.

That said, the Ruger MK2 is preferable to the MK3 for me, as well as the stock model over the /45 variant. I like the simpler layout of the older weapon without the chambered round indicator and mag release. Gives you less to clean later, which you'll want to do pretty frequently. .22lr is a dirty round, and firing it from a short barrel where all the powder doesn't burn makes it no cleaner.

 

[jamesb]

Currently have a SAA clone in .22LR and .22Mag and had a ruger 22/45. The SAA I have had for over 20 years and love to shoot it but it gets to be a pain to push out shells and load every 6 rounds. I sold my 22/45 after 2 range trips because I was not too impressed with it, my wife thought it was 2 heavy and I found it a pain in the butt to pick up all the brass it threw every where. My solution and compromise is to go with a swing out double action revolver with speed loaders. I can drop the brass right in a bucket and load up pretty quick. I am probly going to go with a S&W model 18, 34 or 43. I have looked a the newer models (317, 617) but I want a blued gun. Charter arms .22 pathfinders also interested me since they also have a lr/mag convertable model.

 

[Daniel1120]

My buckmarks trigger is flippin awesome!

There are a few you should look at.
The S&W 22a, the beretta neos, the browning buckmark, ruger mkIII series, sig mosquito, or walther p22. Make your own choice, don't let other people influence you too much. Some people will come in and say X gun is trash or Y gun isn't accurate. Its all subjective. Check out rimfirecentral.com

 

[CTSigLover]

S&W K-22 Target Masterpiece...

You have a great gun, and an investment.

Look for a 5 screw, IMHO the 22's from the late 40's and early 50's were the finest the company ever made.

 

[au2183]

+1 for the K22 Masterpiece. I have 5 of them, ranging from 1938 to 2009. Best revolver ever made IMO. Very accurate too!

 

[Deanimator]

I'd buy a used Ruger MkII or a Browning Buckmark. I don't like magazine safeties, but I'd consider a Ruger MkIII.

 

[Deanimator]

S&W K-22 Target Masterpiece...

An excellent gun. I have one. Not necessarily a first .22 at today's prices though.

 

[Furncliff]

Flite King...

 

[Quadkid]

test out all the ones mentioned and decide for yourself. A bunch of people told me to get the 22/45, so i tried it out and hated it. Im buying a beretta Neos as soon as someone around here has one in stock. Theyve been backordered for about a month.

 

[searcher451]

Recently picked up a NIB Browning Buck Mark Hunter for $355 and absolutely love it. It's got a great trigger, a wonderful fit, and the accuracy is pretty darn remarkable. It certainly compares favorably with my Ruger Mark I and also with the Colt Challenger.

 

[moewadle]

CZ Kadet

Might be a bit over 400 but consider it or find a nice used one.

 

[MCgunner]

Ruger!!!!!

 

[woad_yurt]

Why not look into the coolest .22 ever? The bee's knees?

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=128970149

 

[clemsonu0219]

love my walther P22

 

[Robert L Johnson]

.22cal

Colt Official police in .22 cal.
Look it up (rare)

Bob

 

[weisse52]

In that price range you have lots of choices.

I like the Ruger MKII or MKI. Not a fan of the MKIII.
The Brownings I have see look pretty good and seem to have a loyal following. A main stream choice is always the best for value.

 

[Encoreman]

I vote to visit rimfirecentral also. I have a Browning 71/2 target and it is a sweet shooter. Find a friend who owns one and shoot a box or two and make up your own mind. Mac

 

[XDMfan40]

Yea i am leaning towards the mk II or MK III. They both look like they will fit my needs plus they are easily upgradable.

 

[bigfatdave]

Pick up a Ruger, in whatever configuration you prefer.
Personally, I like the blued bull barrel model.

 

[Mr. Bojangles]

I know I'll catch a lot of crap for this, but consider a Walther P22. I have on that has literally fed over two thousand rounds with about 1 FTF about every 500 rounds (probably due to the fact that I feed it the cheapest stuff I can find and don't clean it often.) While you don't want a pistol that jams or has other problems, with a plinking pistol a 1:500 ratio isn't bad.
No matter what you get I'm sure you will absolutely love shooting a .22 pistol. I sure do.

 

[Corporal K]

Browning beats Ruger any day of the week and twice on Sunday.

You can get a Browning Camper for a little over $200 if you shop a bit.

 

[Plinkeriffic]

have a Browning Buckmark that has exceeded every reasonable expectation and some unreasonable ones. I caught myself saying just today that I wish every gun I had was as accurate and reliable as my Buckmark. Seen 'em for $299 new at Academy.

 

[bigfatdave]

I know I'll catch a lot of crap for this, but consider a Walther P22. I have on that has literally fed over two thousand rounds with about 1 FTF about every 500 rounds (probably due to the fact that I feed it the cheapest stuff I can find and don't clean it often.) While you don't want a pistol that jams or has other problems, with a plinking pistol a 1:500 ratio isn't bad.
No matter what you get I'm sure you will absolutely love shooting a .22 pistol. I sure do.

I also have a P22, and I didn't recommend it based on the lousy accuracy and the need for work on the pistol right out of the box.
Go with the P22 as a live-fire trainer, but not as a target pistol.