S&W 22a Barrel Question

[JoeMal]

I have my eyes on a S&W 22a. Is it worth the extra money to spring for the bull barrel in the 22a? I'm looking for a nice .22 plinker pistol for the range for when I don't feel like burning more expensive ammo.

I can get a 22a for about 250 shipped from Buds, but Cheaper Than Dirt has a bull barrel version for a few bucks more, plus I would pay shipping. Would it be worth the extra money for the bull barrel considering I'm shooting .22 ammo? This would strictly be a range gun.


Thanks

 

[wally]

I've the 7.5" fluted bull barrel model. After having run tens of thousands of rounds through it I wouldn't want any others. Its my favorite .22 pistol and is way more reliable with the cheap Federal bulk pack than all of our four Rugers.

 

[Kingofthehill]

I would go with the Bull Barrel version IMO.

I have a 22a bull barrel and really do enjoy it but i still prefer my Ruger 22/45 (1911 grip)

 

[JoeMal]

I would prefer the 7" version. But I'm curious if the bull barrel would provide better accuracy? Would the longer, 7" version compensate for the 5.5" bull? I'm thinking the longer sight picture might help with the accuracy like a bull barrel would?

 

[CZ57]

My experience is much like your situation, except with Ruger MkIIs. I always liked the 5 inch bull barrel but with the 6 7/8" Target version I could shoot 1" 10 round groups at 25 yards. I believe the pistols are equal in inherent accuracy but the longer sight radius allowed me to shoot the 6 7/8" Target version slightly better.

 

[JoeMal]

My experience is much like your situation, except with Ruger MkIIs. I always liked the 5 inch bull barrel but with the 6 7/8" Target version I could shoot 1" 10 round groups at 25 yards. I believe the pistols are equal in inherent accuracy but the longer sight radius allowed me to shoot the 6 7/8" Target version slightly better.

I've heard good things from those with the 7" about being about to get nice groups. I think I will go with this but I was just curious about the opinion of the bull barrel