The 22 pistol holds an outsized place in the American shooting scene, whether for plinking, informal target practice, casual small game hunting or serious competition. Many of America's storied gun guys used these small rimfire handguns, from the infamous Colt Woodsman that Ernest Hemingway favored to modern competitive shooters who rely on the likes of the Walther PPK/s for success.
The best 22 pistols offer exceptional accuracy on a lightweight blowback semiautomatic action, often with adjustable sights. This makes them ideal for varmint and small game hunting, or even as a fun pocket carry option. They also pack enough power to wreak havoc on slithery evil-doers, from raccoons to rattlesnakes.
Ruger's 22 pistol line has a vast array of models to suit virtually any user's needs and budget. From the affordable SR22 to the high-end Volquartsen Black Mamba, there is a model for every type of shooter. Each model has different features that make it better suited for some uses than others.
The SR22 is the most popular and versatile pistol in the lineup. It has a modern polymer frame that is extremely lightweight. It has a smooth, crisp trigger with a light pull and is very easy to control. It is also compatible with a variety of accessories, from lasers and sights to flashlight mounts. It is a great choice for a first handgun or a backup for more advanced guns.
In 1958, Bill Ruger drew inspiration from the Remington.31 cap-and-ball pocket pistol when designing his version of the Single-Six. He gave it a new name, based on a car (the Stutz Bearcat), and an updated look. The most significant improvement over the original model was in the sights. The rear sight was set in a dovetail and could be drift-adjusted for windage. The front sight was the standard Colt SAA blade style.
Competition 22 pistol differ from their brethren by placing three things at the forefront of their design. First, they tend to be lighter than their non-competition counterparts. This allows them to be easier to maneuver and to carry more rounds in the magazine. Second, they feature an improved, more refined barrel to improve accuracy. Third, they usually have a higher-grade trigger.
One of the best competition 22 pistols is the Sig P229. This model is designed to be as accurate as possible. Its sights are adjustable, and it has a smooth trigger with two palm swells to accommodate various hand sizes. It is the most expensive model on this list, but it delivers top-notch performance.
Another top-rated competition model is the Browning 1911-22. This classic rimfire handgun is the product of Eugene G. Reising, a designer who worked directly with John Browning on the 1911 pistol and later founded his own company. It offers a number of options, including an optional extra cylinder for rimfire magnum ammunition and a choice of grip sizes. It is available in blued or stainless steel and has a Picatinny rail for accessories.
