Best .22 Pistols for 2024: Reliable, Fun, and Easy Shooters

Whether you’re new to shooting or just love putting rounds downrange without breaking the bank, .22 pistols are some of the most fun and versatile handguns out there. They’re perfect for training, plinking, small game, or just enjoying a day at the range.

In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best .22 pistols on the market, what makes them great, and why they’re worth a spot in your collection.

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Why Choose a .22 Pistol?

• Affordable ammo: .22 LR is cheap, meaning more time shooting, less time budgeting.

• Low recoil: Great for beginners or anyone who wants to shoot all day without sore hands.

• Versatile: Perfect for plinking, teaching, or even small game hunting.

• Fun factor: Lightweight, easy to handle, and just plain enjoyable.

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Best .22 Pistols by Category

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Best .22 Pistols for Beginners

• Walther P22 Q – Lightweight, easy to handle, low recoil

• Ruger SR22 – User-friendly controls, simple takedown

• Taurus TX22 – Full-size feel, affordable, and forgiving with ammo

💡 Tip: Beginners should focus on ergonomics—how the gun feels in your hand—and reliability with common ammo.

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Best .22 Pistols for Accuracy

• Ruger Mark IV – Classic design, tight groups at the range

• S&W SW22 Victory – Heavy barrel, excellent trigger feel

• Browning Buck Mark – Precision built, great sights out of the box

💡 Quick Recap: If you want tight shot groups or target shooting, go for a longer barrel and a stable grip.

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Best Budget .22 Pistols

• Taurus TX22 – High capacity, low price

• Heritage Rough Rider (.22 Revolver) – Simple, fun, and under $200

• Ruger Wrangler (.22 Revolver) – Durable, classic western style

💡 Tip: Revolvers are ultra-reliable and fun, even if they’re slower to reload. Great for plinking on a budget.

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Quick Specs Comparison Table

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Top .22 Pistols Reviewed

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1. Ruger Mark IV

One of the most iconic .22 pistols ever made, the Ruger Mark IV is known for its accuracy, classic look, and easy takedown.

• Barrel Length: 4.4″ or 5.5″

• Capacity: 10+1

• Weight: ~35 oz

• Price: ~$550

Why It’s Great: Super reliable, great for target shooting, and comes in several models like the Target or Hunter. The one-button takedown makes cleaning way easier than older models.

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2. Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory

This one’s close to my heart—I own one with a 5″ barrel and it’s a blast to shoot. Solid feel, great trigger, and it just eats whatever ammo I feed it.

• Barrel Length: 5.5″

• Capacity: 10+1

• Weight: 36 oz

• Price: ~$400

Why It’s Great: Super accurate out of the box, the stainless steel frame feels high-quality. Great choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

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3. Walther P22 Q

If you’re looking for something smaller and lighter, the Walther P22 is one of the best compact .22 pistols out there. It’s easy to handle, even for younger or smaller shooters.

• Barrel Length: 3.4″

• Capacity: 10+1

• Weight: 17 oz

• Price: ~$350

Why It’s Great: Ergonomic grip, threaded barrel for suppressors, and lightweight. It’s ideal for plinking or casual range use.

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4. Browning Buck Mark

Another favorite among .22 fans, the Buck Mark offers top-tier accuracy with a comfortable, balanced design.

• Barrel Length: 5.5″

• Capacity: 10+1

• Weight: 34 oz

• Price: ~$500

Why It’s Great: Known for its crisp trigger and solid build. Great for target shooting and available in multiple styles.

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5. Taurus TX22

A newer entry, but one that’s been getting a lot of praise. The TX22 is a budget-friendly, full-size .22 that’s built like a duty pistol—but chambered in .22 LR.

• Barrel Length: 4.1″

• Capacity: 16+1

• Weight: 17 oz

• Price: ~$320

Why It’s Great: High capacity, striker-fired, and super reliable. Great for those who want a .22 that feels like their carry gun.

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Quick Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider

• Purpose: Are you plinking? Training? Hunting small game?

• Feel: How does it sit in your hand? Try before you buy if possible.

• Sights & Triggers: Key to accuracy—don’t skimp on these.

• Maintenance: Some .22s are easier to clean than others (Ruger Mark IV wins here).

❗ Note: .22 LR ammo is dirtier than most centerfire rounds. Regular cleaning will keep your pistol running smoothly.

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Final Thoughts: What’s the Best .22 Pistol?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but if I had to pick a favorite? My SW22 Victory never disappoints. That said, every pistol on this list brings something solid to the table.

Whether you’re after something compact and light, or a more traditional target shooter, .22 pistols are some of the most fun you can have at the range, without emptying your wallet.