SMITH & WESSON M&P15-22 PISTOL
Posted Jun 15, 2023
One of the most highly-rated of the ever-growing collection of modern sporting rifles is the Smith and Wesson M&P15-22 pistol. Made to look and feel like an AR-15, this rifle packs the punch of a .22 LR round and gives your shoulder a break from higher calibers. Not only does it fit in perfectly with the current surge in AR-style firearms, but it’s also reversible, making it a great choice for left-handed shooters who’ve been feeling left out. Now let’s take a deeper look into what makes this rifle so unique.
The Smith and Wesson M&P15-22 pistol is a semi-automatic, magazine-fed firearm designed from the ground up to mimic an AR-15 style rifle. Compact and lightweight, this pistol is built on a tried-and-true platform and delivers reliable performance whether you’re shooting indoors or out. The frame is made of T6 aluminum, giving it a lightweight yet rugged construction. The forend, buttstock, and pistol grip are all crafted from an impact-absorbing polymer, making the M&P15-22 essentially indestructible.
The M&P15-22 pistol is chambered in .22 LR, which has been a popular choice for shooters for generations. This ammo is readily available, inexpensive, and packs enough punch for target shooting and small game hunting. There are two available magazine options: 10-round and 25-rounds. Experienced AR-style rifle shooters may find the 10-round magazine too small, but for most recreational shooters the 25-round magazines will provide more than enough firepower.
The M&P15-22 also comes with a suite of nice features that set it apart from other firearms. It is constructed with an A2-style flash suppressor, which helps to reduce recoil and minimize the chances of a flash when firing off rounds in low-light conditions. There’s also a receiver-mounted Picatinny rail, which makes it easy to attach aftermarket optics, such as a rifle-/red-dot scope or a dot sight. Finally, the pistol also comes with a detachable folding stock, which makes it easy to transport and makes it even more compact when you’re at the range or packing it for a hunt.
I’ve personally owned a Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 pistol for a few years now and have had nothing but good things to say about it. Performance-wise, it’s spot on. It’s reliable and accurate, and I’ve never had a jam or failure in over a thousand rounds. I also love the versatility that comes with it, as it can be used for plinking in a backyard, small game hunting in the woods, or even as the foundation for a more serious rifle build.
From a recoil standpoint, the M&P15-22 pistol is comfortable and controllable. The .22 LR round delivers a mild kick, so you won’t have to worry about your shoulder taking too much of a beating. Additionally, the foregrip isn’t too bulky and provides a good grip when firing off multiple rounds.
Finally, Smith & Wesson’s M&P15-22 pistol is remarkably inexpensive. You can pick up one of these rifles for around $400, which is a bargain compared to many other AR-style firearms. Plus, the low cost of .22 LR ammo only adds to the savings. All in all, it’s a great value for anyone looking for an AR-style rifle that won’t break the bank.
No matter your shooting needs or budget, the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 pistol is definitely worth a look. It’s reliable, packs a punch, and mimics its bigger, centerfire-caliber competitors in both design and performance. Plus, it’s amazingly affordable, making it a great option for any shooter who wants an AR-style rifle without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
•Lightweight and ergonomic design.
•Made of high-quality materials.
•High-velocity rounds ensure accuracy and ammunition consistency.
•Ambidextrous controls make the pistol easy to use for both left and right-handed users.
•Integrated rail accessories provide ample customization options.
Cons:
•Limited range due to the short barrel length.
•Reliability can be an issue due to the plastic interior receiver.
•The lack of a bolt-stop may require manual chambering of a round with each magazine change.
•High velocity rounds require an external sound suppressor for use in urban areas.
•Higher-than-average price tag of approximately $550.
Who Should Buy
The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 pistol is a .22 caliber semi-automatic handgun designed for recreational and sport shooting. As with any firearm, this pistol should only be purchased by individuals who are legally allowed to own firearms and are properly trained in their use and safety. Individuals under the age of 21 or those with a criminal record should not be allowed to purchase such firearms.
Comparisons
| Feature | SMITH & WESSON M&P15-22 PISTOL | SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER PC1911 | WILSON COMBAT CQB TACTICAL LE | HECKLER & KOCH HK 416 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 LR | .45 ACP | .45 ACP | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel | 16” Carbon Steel | 5” Carbon Steel | 5” Match Grade | 16” Chrome-Lined |
| Sight | Adjustable A2-style Front and Rear | Fixed Night Sight | Fixed Tritium Night Sight | Adjustable Front and Rear |
| Magazines | (2) 25-round | (2) 8-round | (2) 8-round | (2) 30-round |
Features / Specs
-Caliber: .22LR
-Overall Length: 32"
-Barrel Length: 16.5"
-Weight (unloaded): 5 lbs
-Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
-Operation: Semi-Automatic
-Action: Blowback
-Sights: Adjustable A2 style front, fixed rear
-Twist Rate: 1:15"
Popular Accessories
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- Red Dot Sight
- Bipod
- Vertical Foregrip
- Magazine Extension
- Rail Covers and Panels
- Sling Attachment
- Trigger Upgrade
- Muzzle Device or Flash Hider
- Laser Sight
- Drum Magazine
Accuracy
The SMITH & WESSON M&P15-22 PISTOL is considered highly accurate, especially for a rimfire rifle. Its barrel is made with a precision 1 in 15 inch twist rate which helps to ensure that the fired round makes a balanced and accurate flight trajectory. The optional 2-position drop safety mechanism has also been reported to aid in accuracy. The further you are away from your target, the more important accuracy becomes, and the M&P15-22 PISTOL has been proven accurate up to about 60 yards. Commander-length barrels and quality optics improve accuracy even further. If you’re looking for reliable accuracy, the SMITH & WESSON M&P15-22 PISTOL is definitely worth considering.
