The Perfect Pistol for a Beginner

[Heartland Patriot]

As stated above, the Walther P22 is a good shooter, and functions more like a 'real' gun for practice, especially easier take down for cleaning. As I researched, I found all kinds of 'horror' stories in reviews about the take down of all the other 22s. My recently acquired P22 has about 1k rounds (mostly Federal 550 'bulk pack') through it with no issues. If you want better accuracy for target shooting, I would suggest the 5" barrel, but I'm happy with the 3" version, and they are available to interchange if you'd like 2 guns for 1;) Be sure to get the newer 'Q' version (no lock). My only real gripe is the safety... it's slide mounted and 'UP' is 'Fire', down is 'Safe', OPPOSITE from everything else I have :( All the other makes are fine shooters as well, but I was looking to keep my 'practice' as consistent to 'real world' as possible. Its just a shade smaller than my Ruger SR9C, and may become my BUG, as I have been so discouraged with the offerings in 380. Otherwise, I really enjoy the cost savings over 45 and 9mm even for 'practice' ammo.

I have one of those Walther P22s...it seems to shoot okay, feeds what I've put through it and the interchangeable grip sections are a nice touch. But, I have one complaint, and maybe its just MY gun as everyone else seems to like them. The trigger is not good...gritty and "funny" feeling. I haven't put a LOT of rounds through it yet, though. Does it get better the more you shoot it? Other than that, though, it was a good buy.

[Jumping Frog]

As I researched, I found all kinds of 'horror' stories in reviews about the take down of all the other 22s.

My S&W Model 41 has always been easy to field strip & clean.

[Zylo_X]

As stated above, the Walther P22 is a good shooter, and functions more like a 'real' gun for practice, especially easier take down for cleaning. As I researched, I found all kinds of 'horror' stories in reviews about the take down of all the other 22s. My recently acquired P22 has about 1k rounds (mostly Federal 550 'bulk pack') through it with no issues. If you want better accuracy for target shooting, I would suggest the 5" barrel, but I'm happy with the 3" version, and they are available to interchange if you'd like 2 guns for 1;) Be sure to get the newer 'Q' version (no lock). My only real gripe is the safety... it's slide mounted and 'UP' is 'Fire', down is 'Safe', OPPOSITE from everything else I have :( All the other makes are fine shooters as well, but I was looking to keep my 'practice' as consistent to 'real world' as possible. Its just a shade smaller than my Ruger SR9C, and may become my BUG, as I have been so discouraged with the offerings in 380. Otherwise, I really enjoy the cost savings over 45 and 9mm even for 'practice' ammo.

I have one of those Walther P22s...it seems to shoot okay, feeds what I've put through it and the interchangeable grip sections are a nice touch. But, I have one complaint, and maybe its just MY gun as everyone else seems to like them. The trigger is not good...gritty and "funny" feeling. I haven't put a LOT of rounds through it yet, though. Does it get better the more you shoot it? Other than that, though, it was a good buy.

Yes, I forgot to mention the interchangeable backstraps, so a young shooter could 'grow' into it. So far as the trigger... I honestly didn't expect much for a 22.
Actually, mine seems smooth and very crisp in SA, and not too long for the DA. Maybe you have the older, pre-Q model?? I'm sure there are plenty of larger guns with better, and WORSE triggers. At the same time as I was shopping the 22, I was also looking at 380's ( LCP, TCP, S&W BG380, etc.), those triggers(& extremely small grip) caused me so much trouble that my theory is "I'd rather hit you with 10 22lrs than 1 or 2 380's".

[michael e]

GSG 1911-22, SW 22a, and a couple of 22 revolvers. The SW22a was my first handgun years ago, I have put more rounds than I can count threw it. It is easy to take apart, offer a few diffrent length barrels, adjustable sights. It's just fun to shoot. The 1911-22 is really close to the feel of my real 1911s but alot cheape to shoot. Have a double action revolver that is also just fun, and a single action one I picked up for 99 at academy after thanksgiving a couple of years ago. If I could only have one the SW 22a would be the one I keep.

[Zylo_X]

Jumping Frog
Glad to be quoted for your 666th post.
While the take down and cleaning might be easy enough to learn and get good at, my thought was just in regard to what is 'most like' other guns, especially those that I own and use. If I recall, the model 41 might be a different method, and was not among those other 'horror stories', but I would think that the model 41 is a little outside the budget for a novice, or non-competitor. Certainly a fine gun indeed.

[AustinBoy]

Thanks for all the advice!

I finally bought it today.

Went with a Browning Buck Mark Camper with Cocobolo grips from Academy. $329.

Cant wait to shoot it on Tuesday!!

Thanks