SMITH & WESSON M&P 15-22 SPORT
Posted Jun 14, 2023
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is a new, high-performance .22LR semi-automatic rifle that provides shooters with a reliable, accurate, and affordable solution for target shooting, hunting, plinking, and tactical training. Offering a range of features that should appeal to a wide range of shooters, the M&P 15-22 Sport is an excellent choice for anyone looking to break into the world of competitive shooting, or for those looking for a reliable and fun gun for recreational use.
At the heart of the rifle is its blowback-operated action, giving the gun a real AR-style feel. This system is reliable, durable, and helps to hold the gun steady and ensure reliable operation. This system is also commonly used in many modern .22 rifles, and offers both a smooth and enjoyable shooting experience.
The M&P 15-22 Sport is equipped with Smith & Wesson’s adjustable trigger system, allowing for the individual user to customize the trigger weight, pull length, and reset speed. This system gives the shooter more control over their trigger performance, which can mean the difference between hitting the bullseye and missing it.
The rifle is chambered in the popular .22LR round, which is both often and affordable, making it an ideal choice for ammo economy. The gun has an above-average accuracy due to its 16-inch barrel and 1:16-inch twist—perfect for recreational target shooting or even competitive matches.
In terms of looks, the M&P 15-22 Sport won't be winning any beauty pageants any time soon. The plastic furniture doesn't feel as premium as you'd expect from an S&W gun. The buttstock is particularly problematic, as it has a hollow feel, with an uncomfortable shape. The handguard, on the other hand, is solid and provides ample protection to the barrel.
The gun ships with front and rear sights, which are adjustable for windage and elevation. The sights offer a good viewing window, but the overall appearance of them is bland and plastic-like. They aren't as high-grade as you'd find on a standard M&P AR rifle, but they work adequately for recreational shooting.
Overall, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is a reliable performer that offers shooters a reliable, accurate, and affordable solution for target shooting, hunting, plinking, and tactical training. Its solid blowback-operated system ensures reliable performance, while its adjustable trigger system gives shooters more control over their shots. The gun's .22LR chambering makes it ideal for ammo economy and its 16-inch barrel and 1:16-inch twist rate give it above-average accuracy. The gun's sights may be a bit underwhelming, but they still do the job. For anyone looking to break into the world of competitive shooting, or for those looking for a reliable and fun gun for recreational purposes, the M&P 15-22 Sport is an excellent choice.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight, easy to carry and handle
- Economical option in terms of rifle cost
- Adaptable platform that can be used for a variety of activities and drills
- Accessory friendly for attachment of scopes, optics, and other accessories
- Magazines are easy to reload
- Highly reliable with minimal jamming
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Low velocity for some ammunition compared to other rifles
- Relatively limited options for after-market parts
- Some consumers find the trigger pull to be too long and heavy
- Limited muzzle velocities can limit the range and accuracy of this rifle
- Plastic stock can create an uneven shooting platform, with minor vibration
- Limited barrel and chamber selection can limit ammunition compatibility
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is a great rifle for anyone from beginners to advanced shooters. It is especially suited for plinking and target shooting. It is not a firearm for hunting or defense and should not be used as such.
Comparisons
| SPRINGFIELD ARMORY HELLION BULLPUP | PALMETTO STATE ARMORY PA-10 | |
| Autoloading | Autoloading | Autoloading |
| 25+1 round | 30+1 rounds | 20+1 rounds |
| 16" | 18" | 18" |
| 5 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 7.75 lbs |
| 1,250 fps | 2,650 fps | 2,800 fps |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Barrel: 16.5" with A2 flash suppressor
• Upper: 8" M&P slim handguard with Magpul M-Lok
• Stock: 6-position CAR Stock
• Sights: Magpul MBUS
• Capacity: 25 Rounds
• Weight: 5 lbs.
• Overall Length: 32.5" – 35.5"
• Twist: 1:15
Popular Accessories
- Magazines
- Scope/Optics
- Sling
- Suppressor/Muzzle brake
- Bi-pod/Grip Pod
- Flashlight/Laser
- Foregrip
- Stock/Buffer tube
- Barrel shroud
- Magazine release button extension
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is an incredibly accurate and reliable firearm. It features a 16.5-inch barrel with a 1:14 twist rate to ensure accuracy and is designed primarily for recreational use. It has been tested and approved by the National Rifle Association (NRA) for its accuracy and quality. Reports say that groups can be held within a 3-inch circle from a distance of 25 yards, making it an excellent weapon for recreational target shooting and for small game hunting. In addition, its adjustable front and rear sights provide unbeatable accuracy and precision at longer distances. You can feel confident in its dependability and superior accuracy, making it a sound choice for your recreational target-shooting needs.
