Bill Ruger’s 1949 Standard Model spawned a whole line of 22 pistols. The little semi-automatics are cheap to shoot, light and easy to carry. But they don’t perform the same as guns of larger calibers do, if all things are equal.

Shot placement is more important than caliber, after all. A quality rimfire pistol is perfect for training new shooters.

Choosing a 22 Pistol

Choosing a 22 pistol is one of the most important decisions any shooting enthusiast will make. This rimfire cartridge is the most popular pistol caliber in the world, and many handgun manufacturers produce models that use it.

Unlike larger firearms, the best 22 pistols produce very little recoil. This can make them easier to shoot and less intimidating for newcomers. It also reduces the chance that a beginner will lose control of the firearm during firing.

Another reason why the rimfire caliber is so popular is that ammunition is readily available and cheaper than some centerfire cartridges. However, it is important to choose quality ammunition as cheap bulk-packs often prioritize quantity over consistency. This may result in a higher number of failures to fire or misfires compared to more expensive ammo. Also, rimfire ammunition can be more sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. This can cause them to malfunction if not properly maintained and cleaned.

Accuracy

The 22 pistol is a great practice gun for the new shooter as there is little recoil and ammo is cheap. It can also be a very effective training tool for those who carry a larger caliber handgun as it allows the shooter to work on their grip, sight picture and trigger control without the distraction of a heavy or long trigger pull.

Some people carry a 22 pistol because they have arthritis or other hand-strength problems that make firing their full-size guns difficult. The ability to shoot a 22 pistol with relative ease gives these individuals the opportunity to continue to enjoy the shooting hobby and stay active as they age.

The best overall rimfire pistol in this group is the Sig P320-22 Compact. This pistol offers the panel the best combination of features that they liked including a comfortable and accurate grip, good sights and a light trigger. It also has maximum attachment options like Picatinny rails.

Accessories

There are plenty of upgrades, spare parts, and accessories for a 22 pistol that enhance its capabilities. These aren’t always necessary, but some are vital for certain uses.

A good holster is one such accessory that improves your ability to carry and draw the weapon under pressure. A holster should feature a covered trigger guard, an ambidextrous reloading mechanism, and passive or active retention options depending on how you plan to carry the gun.

A rimfire pistol is an excellent choice for teaching a new shooter the fundamentals of marksmanship. Its little recoil and affordable ammunition make it a great training tool. A rimfire is also a very effective hunting round for small game. Its capacity is ample for harvesting small game, and it’s easy to purchase and stockpile thousands of rounds. Whether you’re a target plinker, a recreational hunter, or a survivalist, a 22 pistol can serve a valuable role in your arsenal. You can find a wide variety of handguns chambered for the rimfire cartridge at your local Sportsman’s Warehouse.

Value

The value of a 22 pistol depends on a number of factors, including its condition. Firearms in excellent or near-new condition command a higher market value than firearms in fair or average condition.

Adding features that enhance the firearm’s utility can also add value. For example, optics mounted on a gun can improve target identification and accuracy, while flashlights can increase its use in low-light situations. However, poor-quality or unreliable additions may detract from the value of a gun.

Walther’s PPQ series has been on the cutting edge of “tacticool” efficiency since its inception in 2011. Their rimfire counterpart, the PPK/s 22, packs the same controls and ergonomics of the centerfire PPQ into a rimfire platform. This compact sidearm weighs less than a pound and can fit in most holsters, making it an ideal concealed carry option. It holds a full 10 rounds and can be fired one-handed, making it ideal for training or everyday use.