Help me choose a .22 pistol!!

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Help me choose a .22 pistol!!

Posted: 11/15/2006 12:45:32 PM EDT

I also posted this on the Handgun Discussions, but I am looking to get a .22 pistol.

Want to keep it fairly cheap = $200-250 range.

Have looked online and in the store at a few and am having a hard time deciding:

Browning Buckmark Micro Bull - Really liked the weight and feel of this gun.

Smith & Wesson 22A - Felt kinda cheap and lessor quality than the Browning.

Walther P22 - Looks cool, feels cool, but have read of reliability issues on various forums. Salesman didnt have much bad to say, but he's a salesman.

Ruger Mark III - Felt ok in my hands, but have read of the headaches of disassemble/reassemble, even the salesman remarked that it was more difficult to take a part than the others.

So, that's it. If you have any recommendations from this list, or other guns of similar quality in the price range I'd appreciate it.

Posted: 11/15/2006 12:50:41 PM EDT

[#1]

Hate to sound like a Ruger commercial, but the MK III is so well designed and machined that it's hard to beat.

The Buckmark is a distant second.

They aren't that hard to break down - just read the directions. And you won't have to do it very often - mine's lucky if it gets the detail treatment every other year.

Posted: 11/15/2006 12:53:45 PM EDT

[#2]

Ruger.

I've got a 22/45 and it built like a tank.

Posted: 11/15/2006 1:07:21 PM EDT

[#3]

Quoted:
Ruger.

I've got a 22/45 and it built like a tank.

+1 on the22/45. Great-shooting gun.

Posted: 11/15/2006 6:05:51 PM EDT

[#4]

A Ruger Mk III can be taken down and reassembled in under 30 seconds. Don't believe me, look at this page.
I'm really tired of this myth. I hesitated buying one for this reason. Now that I have mine, I laugh at the fools who aren't smart enough to do it.

Heck, I take mine apart and put it back together for fun.

Posted: 11/16/2006 3:14:33 AM EDT

[#5]

I bought the Walther P22 this past weekend for my g/f. I really wanter either the Ruger or the Browning, but she has small hands, and felt the gun was on the heavy side.

Just from dissasembling it, I feel that the quality is nice between the mags and the gun. Plastic trigger

I'll shoot it this weekend and get back at ya

Posted: 11/17/2006 11:01:18 AM EDT

[#6]

Thanks for everyone's input.

Shootemup - I'll be looking for that range report!

Posted: 11/17/2006 1:27:40 PM EDT

[#7]

Quoted:
Thanks for everyone's input.

Shootemup - I'll be looking for that range report!

I'm going with the g/f tommorow

I'll let you know.

Posted: 11/25/2006 8:28:32 AM EDT

[#8]

I would look for a used Ruger Mark II with a standard length bull barrel. If you can't do that, then I would go for a Mark III in the same configuration.

I find the Ruger is a pain to take apart too, but it is because I only take it apart every couple of years. I don't clean it until it stops shooting. By the time I take it apart, I have forgotten how to do it. I usually fumble with it until it falls together.

Once I look at the directions, it is easy. If you did it alot, it would be second nature.

The Buckmark is nice too. Magazines will cost you more.

Posted: 11/25/2006 9:20:02 AM EDT

[#9]

Beretta NEOS

Posted: 11/26/2006 7:12:15 PM EDT

[#10]

I agree with the 22/45. If I ever went with anything other than the Ruger 22's I would go with the buckmark. I would stay away from the walther and smith. walthers are ammo sensitive, and smiths just dont feel right to me. maybe to plasticy. let us know what you end up getting

Posted: 11/26/2006 8:42:38 PM EDT

[#11]

Supressed p22 is the way to go. Don't waste money on the long barrel. Ammo sensitive seems only to apply to yellowjackets.

Posted: 11/27/2006 5:46:59 AM EDT

[#12]

Quoted:

Supressed p22 is the way to go. Don't waste money on the long barrel. Ammo sensitive seems only to apply to yellowjackets.

That's funny right there!

Did you even read the original post, "Double-O-Seven"?

Posted: 11/28/2006 1:31:22 AM EDT

[#13]

If you can find a used Ruger MkII for a good price, you will not regret it.

I am happy with my S&W M22A, four inch barrel, as well. S&W has just repaired it under warranty, after a bit over 60k rounds the frame broke. S&W has the best warranty that I have found in the gun industry.

Ruger even refused to sell me a hammer for a 10/22, I would have needed to send the gun in but there are many aftermarket parts for Rugers available.

Posted: 11/28/2006 1:50:21 AM EDT

[#14]

Of all the 22 handguns I've owned over the years my Ruger MkI is the one that has stood the test of time (I've owned it for 25 years). It has never had anything break and it's still very accurate.

The disassembly/assembly is difficult the first one or two times then it becomes really simple.

Posted: 11/28/2006 8:44:19 AM EDT

[#15]

Although the MK family of pistols are accurate and reliable, I don't like the way they look. I wish Ruger would come up with a new .22 cal pistol that competes with the look of the sig mesquito or the walther p22. These pistols look and behave like center fire models, and make the popular .22 cartridge a fun & cheap way to shoot.

I just bought a P22 last Sunday. and have yet to take it to the range. I plan to take it out for the first time this Sat. and see for my self how it works. I have read alot of reviews of this gun on both ends of the spectrum. I bought this gun regardless the bad reviews because I fell in love with the design. Whet ever problems that I may encounter, I can fix my self.

Posted: 11/28/2006 5:43:18 PM EDT

[#16]

WALTHER P22!!!!!!!!

My new "fun" gun, just picked one up 2 weeks ago, and I too had already heard the horror stories about it.

Have fired close to 600 rounds through it in 2 different sessions, have not cleaned it or lubed it......not one malfunction!!!!!!!Awesome little gun and accurate.

Posted: 11/29/2006 1:14:39 AM EDT

[#17]

Quoted:
WALTHER P22!!!!!!!!

My new "fun" gun, just picked one up 2 weeks ago, and I too had already heard the horror stories about it.

Have fired close to 600 rounds through it in 2 different sessions, have not cleaned it or lubed it......not one malfunction!!!!!!!Awesome little gun and accurate.

I have had the same outstanding results with mine!!!

I did, however, just pick up a Sig Trailside. They are awesome guns as well!!

Posted: 11/29/2006 1:53:17 AM EDT

[#18]

P22.

My first one gave me issues, the dealer i bought it from traded me for the one I currently have now. 400+ rounds through it, no issues.

Still waiting on the damn can to transfer though. approaching 6 months.

Posted: 12/3/2006 3:22:09 PM EDT

[#19]

Buckmark or MkII (I don't like the MkIII) are the only ones that will stand the test of time. I love my MkII's and my Buckmark...

Posted: 12/4/2006 3:02:11 AM EDT

[#20]

Well, I just shot my P22 yesterday. It wasn't the best circumstances, because the range I went to doesn't allow closer than 15 yards.

All I can say isthat I sent about 200 rounds down range, and this thing is great!! It was accurate at 15 yards, and my g/f loved it!!

Hell, I brought my AR10T and I shot the P22 more than the 10.

I definatly wouldn't think twice about getting the P22. It'll provide for quite a bit of fun. Especially with a can on it

Posted: 12/6/2006 5:38:32 PM EDT

[#21]

+1 on the ruger 22/45. i have the 4 in bbl and use it to simulate
my colt commander for training. it has bull bbl and adj sites
it is a mkIII and do not find it that difficult to assemble.
just READ THE INSTRUCTIONS.
p.s. it is VERY accurate and a whole lot cheeeper to shoot than my .45

Posted: 12/8/2006 12:39:05 PM EDT

[#22]

Quoted:
Beretta NEOS

I couldn’t agree more. I have one, and it is awesome! I have 2 barrels for it, a 6” with a Red Dot Sight and a 4” that I use with the open sights. It has never had a single problem feeding, and I’ve put more than 3500 rounds through it. It is the coolest looking 22 you can find, and it is priced well below a Ruger or S&W.

Posted: 12/8/2006 1:59:29 PM EDT

[#23]

Quoted:

Quoted:
Beretta NEOS

I couldn’t agree more. I have one, and it is awesome! I have 2 barrels for it, a 6” with a Red Dot Sight and a 4” that I use with the open sights. It has never had a single problem feeding, and I’ve put more than 3500 rounds through it. It is the coolest looking 22 you can find, and it is priced well below a Ruger or S&W.

www.lisc.net/bneos.jpg
www.berettaweb.com/armi/U22-neos-2003-dlx-2.gif

Posted: 12/9/2006 7:53:51 PM EDT

[#24]

Ruger rimfire revolvers have stood the test of time if so inclined.
Their MK platforms have been around for a while too

Posted: 12/9/2006 8:06:42 PM EDT

[#25]

Ruger Mark III

Posted: 12/9/2006 8:15:39 PM EDT

[#26]

I would try to find a new Ruger MKII. The MKIII has 3 features that had complexity and hassle: mag disconnect, loaded chamber indicator, integral lock. Plenty of new MKII's floating around.

Posted: 12/9/2006 8:24:24 PM EDT

[#27]

Find a used Ruger Mk II.

Posted: 12/10/2006 4:54:09 AM EDT

[#28]

After shooting the P22 yestersay for another ~200 rounds, I'd have to say definatly get it!!

This thing is great, and at 7 yards, I was getting ~2" groups. I had a coupleof rounds that didn't go bang when the trigger was pulled, but not FTF, FTE of any kind. I shot the P22more than my Kimber Ultra CDP II.

What a GREAT gun, and I can't wait to get a can for it.

Posted: 12/11/2006 8:48:45 AM EDT

[#29]

I've got each of the ones on your short list and several others.

Not a bad one in the bunch.

I agree the Smith seems a little cheezy until you shoot it. Then it's just fine.

Some have a little more "cool" factor, some are better finished, but they'll all bring on a smile when you shoot 'em.

Posted: 12/15/2006 10:03:32 AM EDT

[#30]

I'm looking real hard at the Buckmark. My dad has the 5.5" bull version and it has absolutely the best trigger I've ever used on any gun. I also liked the weight on it. It has an alluminum frame and seems to balance perfect for me.

Edit: Oh, I have owned a P22 and it was a kick at the range. Never had any problems with any type of ammo from bulk to velociters. I sold it because I'm looking at more of a hunting/bull type of .22 for backpacking.

Posted: 12/15/2006 10:31:17 AM EDT

[#31]

If you are a 1911 shooter, the BuckMark is unique among the pistols listed as it is egonomically Identical to a full size 1911. even the weight and ballance are the same.
If you use the Buckmark as an inexpensive training pistol, the transistion to the 1911 will be seemless.

The magazines are stupidly expensive though.

Posted: 12/15/2006 12:32:57 PM EDT

[#32]

Quoted:
After shooting the P22 yestersay for another ~200 rounds, I'd have to say definatly get it!!

This thing is great, and at 7 yards, I was getting ~2" groups. I had a coupleof rounds that didn't go bang when the trigger was pulled, but not FTF, FTE of any kind. I shot the P22more than my Kimber Ultra CDP II.

What a GREAT gun, and I can't wait to get a can for it.

Hey, that is great. That's only a 28.6 inch group at 100 yards! (2"/252" = 28.6"/3600")

I've got an old Bersa that shoots under two inches at 25 yards, offhand. My scoped MkII can get under 2" in 100 yards from a resting position if I do my part.

Not to piss on your parade, but you need to raise the "BAR-O-ACCEPTABLE-ACCURACY" a bit before you get all excited about a suppressor.

ETA: How people can get excited about the P22, with its mediocre accuracy, when compared to the S&W 41, MkII and even the Buckmark, just amazes me. I guess it has that "cool" factor, plus everybody has a "can" for it, making it even "cooler". Call me old fashioned, but I thought the important thing was to hit the damn target every time, not how "cool" it looked. Somewhere along the line the marketing took over with the prostitution of James Bond, Navy Seals, Special Forces, SWAT, etc. Seems everybody wants to be a "bad-ass", or at least look like one by "buying the gear".

Most of the time it's amusing, but sometimes it just plain annoys me. Maybe I need more sleep.

Okay, I'm off my

. Pardon my rant.

EOMFTTA (edited one more f#@&ing time to add): NOT intended as an attack on shootemup, as I have read many of your posts, and do not mean to offend you. Please do not take it that way. My angst, if you will, is the typical P22 follower that has fallen for the hype, the image, the "coolness" of a P22 and a suppressor, without even trying an inherently more accurate .22 such as a MkII, Buckmark, etc.

Posted: 12/15/2006 1:33:31 PM EDT

[#33]

Quoted:EOMFTTA (edited one more f#@&ing time to add): NOT intended as an attack on shootemup, as I have read many of your posts, and do not mean to offend you. Please do not take it that way. My angst, if you will, is the typical P22 follower that has fallen for the hype, the image, the "coolness" of a P22 and a suppressor, without even trying an inherently more accurate .22 such as a MkII, Buckmark, etc.

FWIW, I own a P22 and have also been disappointed in its "accuracy." However, I still think it's a neat little pistol. "LITTLE" is the operative word, here. Somehow, it fits in my fishing pack better than my Ruger MkII Government Target Model. For that reason, I see it as a handy, fun gun to pack along on fishing/camping trips and the like. That being said, what I'd really like is a 3-inch barreled S&W kit gun revolver in .22 LR.

Posted: 12/15/2006 1:44:43 PM EDT

[#34]

I'm glad you posted this, because I am in the market for a 22 pistol. I'm leaning towards the Ruger. I had one of the MarkII (I think?) 25-30 years ago and liked it. Don't now why I sold it.

Posted: 12/19/2006 1:12:11 PM EDT

[#35]

I like my Buckmark (stainless bull barrel), but I also enjoy shooting my brother's MkII. I think I'd like to get the .22lr conversion for my CZ75B and I have a SW617 stainless 10 shot 6" on order so it should be here in a week or 2 (pricey though).

Posted: 12/19/2006 4:18:17 PM EDT

[#36]

Quoted:
. That being said, what I'd really like is a 3-inch barreled S&W kit gun revolver in .22 LR.

You also might want to keep your eyes peeled for a SP-101 in .22

Posted: 12/20/2006 5:16:55 AM EDT

[#37]

Quoted:

Quoted:
After shooting the P22 yestersay for another ~200 rounds, I'd have to say definatly get it!!

This thing is great, and at 7 yards, I was getting ~2" groups. I had a coupleof rounds that didn't go bang when the trigger was pulled, but not FTF, FTE of any kind. I shot the P22more than my Kimber Ultra CDP II.

What a GREAT gun, and I can't wait to get a can for it.

Hey, that is great. That's only a 28.6 inch group at 100 yards! (2"/252" = 28.6"/3600")

I've got an old Bersa that shoots under two inches at 25 yards, offhand. My scoped MkII can get under 2" in 100 yards from a resting position if I do my part.

Not to piss on your parade, but you need to raise the "BAR-O-ACCEPTABLE-ACCURACY" a bit before you get all excited about a suppressor.

ETA: How people can get excited about the P22, with its mediocre accuracy, when compared to the S&W 41, MkII and even the Buckmark, just amazes me. I guess it has that "cool" factor, plus everybody has a "can" for it, making it even "cooler". Call me old fashioned, but I thought the important thing was to hit the damn target every time, not how "cool" it looked. Somewhere along the line the marketing took over with the prostitution of James Bond, Navy Seals, Special Forces, SWAT, etc. Seems everybody wants to be a "bad-ass", or at least look like one by "buying the gear".

Most of the time it's amusing, but sometimes it just plain annoys me. Maybe I need more sleep.

Okay, I'm off my

. Pardon my rant.

EOMFTTA (edited one more f#@&ing time to add): NOT intended as an attack on shootemup, as I have read many of your posts, and do not mean to offend you. Please do not take it that way. My angst, if you will, is the typical P22 follower that has fallen for the hype, the image, the "coolness" of a P22 and a suppressor, without even trying an inherently more accurate .22 such as a MkII, Buckmark, etc.

No offense taken.

I'm no sharp shooter for sure.

The reason I bought this gun was to teach my g/f how to shoot. It's serving it's purpose GREAT!!

To me, the $200 spent was well spend money. I'm not saying that I wont get a Browning, Ruger, or S&W either.

Posted: 12/20/2006 7:58:38 AM EDT

[#38]

Quoted:

...No offense taken.

...

Cool. I get a little cranky every now and then.

Posted: 12/30/2006 6:00:44 AM EDT

[#39]

Just my 2 cents:
I have shot thousands of rounds through a Ruger mk III competition, and a Kimber gold match with a .22 converstion kit, ....and sampled many many others

! By FAR the most accurate is the 22/45. I was at the range shooting the mark III, and the woman in the port beside me was shooting her 22/45.... and kindly allowed me to try it. I was shooting X's - weak handed at 50 feet, iron sights! (I ordered mine the next day) IMHO it is a amazingly accurate pistol, cheap ammo, a GREAT gun for any shooter, gives lots of confidence and easy to shoot.

Posted: 12/30/2006 6:22:22 AM EDT

[#40]

Quoted:
Just my 2 cents:
I have shot thousands of rounds through a Ruger mk III competition, and a Kimber gold match with a .22 converstion kit, ....and sampled many many others

! By FAR the most accurate is the 22/45. I was at the range shooting the mark III, and the woman in the port beside me was shooting her 22/45.... and kindly allowed me to try it. I was shooting X's - weak handed at 50 feet, iron sights! (I ordered mine the next day) IMHO it is a amazingly accurate pistol, cheap ammo, a GREAT gun for any shooter, gives lots of confidence and easy to shoot.

MkII or MkIII 22/45?

Posted: 12/30/2006 6:47:14 AM EDT

[#41]

Quoted:
I'm glad you posted this, because I am in the market for a 22 pistol. I'm leaning towards the Ruger. I had one of the MarkII (I think?) 25-30 years ago and liked it. Don't now why I sold it.

I decided on the MARKIII 512 bull barrel. The bull barrel just seemed to balance the gun better.

ETA: Haven't shot it yet. Hopefully next week sometime

Posted: 12/30/2006 8:05:52 AM EDT

[#42]

Its a Mark III, 5 1/2" bull barrel, blued. Cost under $200 2 years ago. (ahhhh.... look up!!!)

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Help me choose a .22 pistol!!

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