6 Best 22 Pistol Reviews in 2023 | Top Handguns of This Reliable and Proven Caliber

[Overall Best 22 Pistol] 

1. Walther P22 Q

I'm personally a big fan of pistols that sport this design, and the P22 wears it really well. It has a tight, sturdy construction and impressive accuracy. The grip feels absolutely wonderful, too, making this an excellent addition to anyone's arsenal.

I also really appreciate the magazine on the P22, as it feels most excellent and is a breeze to swap out for fast firing and follow-up shots. Is this the best 22 pistol of all time? It depends on what you're looking for. If you don't mind the smaller size and are more interested in versatility and handling, I believe you will be blown away by what the P22 brings to the table.

Action Satisfaction

What's more, the action is smooth as silk, making this 22 pistol really easy to use. As the P 22 compact is on its own, it's quite small for a pistol. And as such, both veteran and new shooters have a choice to make to ensure their comfort. You see, the grip is pretty short, so those with large hands will swallow a lot of the handle, while those with small hands will feel right at home.

I find the P22 to be incredibly well-balanced and a lot of fun to shoot. Depending on your shooting preferences, you can fire in either single-action or double-action mode.

The compact construction of the P22 makes it a perfect choice for concealed carry. You're getting the same high standard found in other Walther firearms, but in a portable yet powerful body. If you're looking for a reliable self-defense option, the P22 is definitely worth considering.

However, personally, I prefer a larger caliber for self-defense. It's worth noting that some users have reported positive experiences with the P22, mentioning its reliability after a break-in period and its compatibility with cheap ammunition.

Overall, it seems that the changes in the P22q model have addressed previous issues, making it a great pistol that fires flawlessly.

[Best for the Money] 

2. Ruger Wrangler 22LR

There's something special about revolvers, namely, that you can count on them to outlast most other types of weaponry. Why? 

 Simply due to their limited construction. Unlike the many parts that make up semi-auto pistols, revolvers have very few components. Thus, there is less likely to break or malfunction.

As such, I figured at least one revolver deserved to be featured. I was torn between this and the famous Smith & Wesson Model 17. As a 22LR pistol, the S&W Model 17 is undeniably one of the highest-rated revolvers of our time.

However, Smith & Wesson is featured prominently elsewhere. Not just that, but it's also ridiculously expensive for a revolver. An excellent revolver, mind you, but an expensive one nonetheless. As such, I wanted to bring you an affordable option that holds its own among the heavyweights of Smith & Wesson and other notables.

And by my estimation and experience, Ruger's Wrangler deserves top praise. It's an easy-to-use revolver (like most others) and it won't break your bank account to own it. Costing a fraction of what you'd pay for the Smith & Wesson Model 17, the Ruger Wrangler is a budget-friendly 22 LR pistol that shoots well and has an easy trigger pull.

As 22 LR pistols go, the Wrangler doesn't pull any punches. It boasts a powerful kick when you shoot it, yet hits its targets with precision. Ruger deserves plenty of accolades for manufacturing such a commendable handgun for such an affordable price.

The Best 22LR Revolver?

The Ruger Wrangler may not be the optimal choice for concealed carry or self-defense, but it's a dream come true for plinking enthusiasts. I've always been impressed by its remarkable accuracy, and the fact that it's chambered in .22 LR adds to its appeal.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced shooter, this pistol is an excellent choice. It offers easy handling and impressive durability, making it a reliable and steadfast companion. 

Moreover, its affordability makes it accessible to a wider range of people, ensuring that the .22 caliber remains a cost-effective option for shooting enthusiasts.

It's worth noting that users have reported positive experiences, praising its accuracy, reliability, and overall performance. The Ruger Wrangler is undoubtedly a great addition to any collection of firearms, especially for those who appreciate single-action revolvers and the exceptional value it offers.

[Best for the Single/Double-Action] 

3. Sig Sauer Mosquito MOS-22

What impressed me the most about this handgun is its incredible accuracy. You can trust that you are spending your money on a budget-friendly firearm that delivers focused precision every time you let off a round from its chamber.

And that, my friends, isn't something you always get from pistols that are on the lower end of the price spectrum. But Sig Sauer delivers the goods with a handgun that is worth the price of admission, no matter how affordable it is.

During my time with the Mosquito, I found it to offer some of the best target shooting I've done in a long time. New shooters will definitely be interested in this 22 caliber pistol. It's incredibly easy to shoot and it looks like a champion through and through.

With its magazine loaded, the total weight of the Mosquito is just under 25 ounces. It has really nice balance to it, which I find helps improve accuracy and versatility.

Take Your Pick

There are several different options available for you to choose from in terms of finish. For certain ladies (and some men - not knocking), there's a two-tone pink and black option. Or, if you're the type of gal or fellow who is in the military or appreciates its colors, there are Olive Drab greens and Flat Dark Earth options, among many others.

With such a wide variety of options available, you should have no trouble getting a semi-auto 22 pistol that fits your style. Heck, there's even a threaded barrel version of the Mosquito available if you wish to add a suppressor later.

Gripping Lessons

I will say that the compact size of the Mosquito might be a turn-off for some individuals, particularly those with larger hands who may struggle to find a comfortable grip.

However, one aspect I appreciate is its ability to shoot in either double or single action modes, a feature not commonly found in semi-auto pistols. Despite its smaller size, the value offered by the Mosquito is hard to beat.

It performs admirably, delivering precise shots without breaking the bank. Personally, I have experienced flawless performance with mine, particularly when using CCI mini mags. In fact, I love this little gun so much that I gave one to a friend who was concerned about personal safety.

The Mosquito feels solid and well-built, although I learned the hard way not to dry-fire it repeatedly.

Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my M&P .22, especially since the trigger reset mimics the apex trigger kit found in my other pistols. It truly is a great firearm, and after some minor adjustments such as sanding the feeding ramp with a Demerol bit, it now fires all types of ammunition flawlessly.

4. Sig Sauer 1911-22

This baby is accurate.

If you're in a situation where you need to fire off a quick shot, whether it's at a home intruder or an attacker on the street, there's a good chance that you're going to hit the target you're aiming at. When it comes to defending yourself, that's a very important factor to consider.

Now, if you just wanted a handgun to do some leisurely afternoon plinking in your backyard, that's another story entirely. You wouldn't necessarily need a razor-sharp 22 pistol to have a good time.

But that's not the case on the street or in your residence. You need to know that your 22 pistol is primed and ready to make a connection with any potential assailants who might be dumb enough to test your mettle.

Armed and Appealing

But there's more to this firearm than just accuracy. The Sig Sauer 1911-22 is not only a precise weapon, but it also boasts an intimidating appearance that can make others think twice. Its menacing look is a significant aspect of guns in general, and the Sig Sauer 1911-22 embraces this concept wholeheartedly.

Moreover, if you find yourself facing an intruder who is either too stubborn or incapable of retreat, this reliable companion will make the decision for them.

In addition to its functionality, the 1911-22 exudes a remarkable sense of class. With its stunning woodgrain grips and attractive construction, it pays homage to the original 1911. Personally, I have always admired the rustic aesthetics in firearms, and Sig Sauer has truly captured that essence with the 1911-22.

These pistols are not only enjoyable to shoot but can also achieve remarkable accuracy with the right parts from cw accessories. Several users have praised its performance, with one owner proudly stating that they put approximately 1,300 rounds through it in just eight months. Its compatibility with existing 1911 holsters is also a convenient feature mentioned by a satisfied user.

Many individuals have found the Sig Sauer 1911-22 to be a reliable and versatile firearm. One owner even expressed amazement at the exceptional accuracy of their particular pistol, which has never failed to function flawlessly. While experiences may vary, the overall feedback on this gun has been highly positive.

If you're seeking an impressive and reliable firearm, the Sig Sauer 1911-22 is definitely worth considering. Its blend of accuracy, intimidation, and classic aesthetics make it a standout choice for enthusiasts and self-defense alike.

Ideal to Conceal

Another great thing about the Sig Sauer 1911-22 is that although it looks like a full-sized handgun, in all actuality, it isn't. As such, it looks more powerful than it actually is. It's an ideal gun to carry on your person during the day and keep by your bed at night.

That's 24-hour protection around the clock. If you're new to handling guns, the Sig Sauer 1911-22 makes an excellent investment for first-time gun owners. Whether you have ample experience with firearms or it's your first time, you're going to get used to the Sig Sauer 1911-22 really quickly.

It's that good of a gun. I found myself acclimated to it in a matter of minutes. And once I felt comfortable with it, I had an absolute blast letting it rip. I put several rounds through it without breaking a sweat and enjoyed every minute of it.

It's a 22 pistol that just works from the get-go. You don't need a lot of time to learn the ropes because it's so well made and put together. The construction is most excellent, as well, ensuring that you're investing in a 22 pistol that's built to last.

And that is perhaps one of the best aspects of this gun going into the hands of a beginner. Because it is virtually identical to a full-sized pistol, newcomers will be able to get comfortable with how to operate a handgun the right way from the start.

That in itself makes the Sig Sauer 1911-22 reason to invest in it. Why not start with a high standard for gun handling instead of working your way up? Granted, this is ideal for some people. But if you can get used to handling a full-sized model from the start, you will likely have an easier time getting acclimated to everything else.

5. Browning Buck Mark Medallion 22

I've held guns that by all rights should have been a marksman's dream come true. Guns with stellar balance, excellent build quality, and so on. But I just couldn't find myself comfortable with some of them, so matter how long I stuck with it.

I like to give myself plenty of time with any gun so I can get acclimated to it. Unfortunately, there are just some guns out there that I don't feel comfortable shooting for whatever reason. Thankfully, I can always turn to pistols like the Browning BuckMark. This beauty is solid throughout, delivering an amazingly accurate shooting experience with every trigger pull.

Competition-Ready

If you're in the market for a 22 pistol that you can trust to hit the target with incredible precision, the Buck Mark is your gun. There's a reason competitive shooters trust this weapon, and you should, too. It comes equipped with a TruGlo fiber optic front sight, while the rear sight is a Pro-Target.

The two work to bring you one of the best 22 pistols I've used for connecting with targets. The single-action design might be a bummer to some people, but you have to understand what this gun is designed for.

If you have to have a double-action 22 LR pistol, you're looking in the wrong place. The Buck Mark is all about accuracy at long distances. Therefore, it's single-action all day, baby. What's more, this pistol is fantastic at nailing small games, such as squirrels.

Stellar Craftsmanship

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the beautiful construction and expert craftsmanship that went into building this gun. After all, they are what help make the Buck Mark such a beloved competition pistol. As I mentioned, a great gun is going to have more than just one aspect that makes it the best.

And the Buck Mark is packed with a wide variety of winning components. For starters, the grip is wonderful. It's full-sized, giving you plenty of room to feel comfortable and secure. Not only that, but it's just a pleasure to look at.

Browning successfully married modern and antique aesthetics to deliver a timeless masterpiece. The frame is made of aluminum alloy, while the barrel is stainless steel. The grips are made of classy Rosewood and textured with a checkered pattern.

It's stellar from top to bottom, and I absolutely love it. This is the type of handgun that you want to place in a glass box on your mantle for your friends to admire. And yet, it's ready to provide you with a reliable shooting experience the moment you need it. If looks could kill, the Buck Mark would be even deadlier than it already is.

Winning Features

Other notable features of this great gun include a 5.5-inch barrel, which is perfect for precise aiming and firing. The trigger pull is incredibly light, making it a welcome addition. However, new shooters should take it easy initially, as the blowback action can startle those unfamiliar with this kind of accessible power.

While it may not be the ideal choice for concealed carry, there are plenty of other options available that offer better personal protection. Nevertheless, the Buck Mark can still effectively deter intruders from breaking into your home.

For accuracy, the Buck Mark stands out as one of the best .22 pistols. Its reliability is evident through the testimonials of satisfied owners who have enjoyed shooting this pistol for years. From its balanced feel to its comfortable grip, the Buck Mark has consistently delivered accuracy and a pleasurable shooting experience.

Personal experiences with the Buck Mark have been overwhelmingly positive. Some have owned this pistol for over two decades, praising its accuracy and how enjoyable it is to shoot. Others have made slight modifications, such as adding a fiber optic front sight for improved visibility. Many hold sentimental value towards the Buck Mark, with stories of it being a cherished gift from a loved one.

Overall, the Buck Mark has proven itself as a reliable, accurate, and enjoyable pistol to own. Its longevity and the satisfaction of its owners speak volumes about its quality and performance.

6. Ruger Mark IV Target

Perhaps most impressive of all is the single-button breakdown feature. Whereas past Ruger Mark Series models proved somewhat challenging to fieldstrip, the Mark IV Target bucks that trend and goes for something much easier.

Whether you are experienced in field stripping or you're a newcomer to the game, you will have a field day with the Mark IV Target. And then there's the handling and actual shooting.

Thanks to its stainless steel construction, the Mark Series pistol offers incredible weight and balance, making it a pleasure to hold and providing a secure grip. The added weight also helps reduce recoil, and the three-dot sights ensure precise targeting with every shot.

While this Ruger may not be the ideal choice for concealed carry due to its size and weight, it excels in home defense, offering reliable protection for your loved ones.

Additionally, the Mark IV Target model proves to be a dependable companion for small game hunting, performing admirably in the woods. This full-size .22 caliber pistol has proven its reliability, having endured countless rounds and serving as a teaching tool for new shooters. 

Though disassembling and reassembling it for cleaning can be a bit challenging, overall, it remains one of the author's favorite .22 pistols. Ruger stands out as an exceptional gun company, manufacturing a wide range of firearms, and the author highly recommends the Ruger Mark IV Standard model, which they personally own and love. It's a go-to option for plinking, fitting the hand perfectly and functioning flawlessly without any issues, reliably firing any ammunition fed into it.