Imagine a small, quiet firearm that packs a punch for its size, a versatile tool for many. That’s the charm of the .22 pistol. But with so many different models out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a treasure hunt with no map. Many people find themselves overwhelmed by the choices, unsure which features matter most or which pistol best suits their needs, whether for plinking at the range, learning to shoot, or even for basic self-defense.
This confusion can lead to frustration and a feeling of being lost in a sea of technical jargon. But what if there was a way to cut through the noise and find exactly what you’re looking for? By diving into this guide, you’ll learn what makes a good .22 pistol, understand the key differences between popular models, and gain the confidence to make a smart purchase. Get ready to discover the ideal .22 pistol that fits your hand and your budget.
Our Top 5 .22 Pistol Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 .22 Pistol Detailed Reviews
1. Umarex Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol
Rating: 9.0/10
The Umarex Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol brings realistic Glock styling and performance to the airgun world. This air pistol shoots steel BBs, making it a fun option for target practice or plinking. Its design mimics the real Glock 19, offering a familiar feel for enthusiasts.
What We Like:
- It has a 15-shot magazine, so you can shoot many BBs before reloading.
- This pistol shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at a fast speed of up to 410 feet per second.
- It comes with a Weaver rail, which makes it easy to add cool accessories like lights or lasers.
- The sights are fixed and look like real Glock sights, and it has official Glock markings for authenticity.
- It feels and looks like a real Glock 19.
What Could Be Improved:
- The CO2 cartridge is not included, so you have to buy that separately.
- Reloading the magazine can be a little tricky for some users.
This Umarex Glock 19 Gen3 air pistol offers an exciting and authentic shooting experience. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a realistic-feeling BB gun.
2. Crosman P1322 American Classic Variable-Pump .22-Caliber Pellet Air Pistol
Rating: 9.2/10
The Crosman P1322 American Classic Variable-Pump .22-Caliber Pellet Air Pistol in black is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to get into airgunning or improve their shooting skills. Its sturdy synthetic frame and grip feel good in your hand, and the rifled steel barrel promises accuracy. This pistol uses a pneumatic design, meaning you pump it up to power each shot. It’s a great way to learn how airguns work and practice safe handling.
What We Like:
- You control the power! The variable pump lets you adjust the speed of the pellet, up to 460 feet per second.
- Loading is simple with the single-shot bolt action.
- Safety first! The crossbolt safety keeps you safe while you handle the pistol.
- You can easily aim with the fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight.
- It’s perfect for learning how to shoot better and having fun outdoors.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a single-shot pistol, so you have to reload after each shot.
- The pumping action can take a few pumps to reach its full power.
This Crosman P1322 is an excellent starting point for developing your shooting skills and enjoying airgun adventures. It offers a great balance of features for learning and fun.
3. Umarex Strikepoint .22 Caliber Airgun Pistol
Rating: 9.1/10
The Umarex Strikepoint .22 Caliber Airgun Pistol is a versatile and quiet air pistol for target practice and pest control. It’s a single-shot, multi-pump pneumatic airgun that you can adjust for power. You can pump it from 3 to 10 times. This gives you control over how hard it shoots. The built-in SilencAir sound dampener helps keep your shooting quiet. It’s permanently attached, so it’s always there to reduce noise. This pistol shoots .22 caliber pellets at speeds up to 520 feet per second. It also has fiber optic sights for easy aiming. The frame is made to last and can handle different weather conditions.
What We Like:
- Variable power lets you control the shooting strength.
- The SilencAir sound dampener makes it much quieter.
- It shoots .22 caliber pellets at a good speed.
- Fiber optic sights make aiming easier.
- The all-weather frame is very durable.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is a single-shot pistol, so you have to reload after each shot.
- The multi-pump action takes a bit of effort.
The Umarex Strikepoint is a solid choice for anyone wanting a quiet and adjustable air pistol. It offers good features for its price point.
4. Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun Kit
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready for some fun with the Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun Kit in black. This air pistol is designed for target practice and backyard plinking. It’s a CO2-powered, semi-automatic BB gun, which means you can fire it quickly. This kit comes with everything you need to start shooting right away.
What We Like:
- The pistol shoots BBs at a good speed of up to 500 feet per second.
- It holds 21 BBs in its built-in magazine, so you don’t have to reload too often.
- The kit includes safety glasses to protect your eyes.
- You also get targets to shoot at and a tube with 350 BBs.
- Three CO2 cartridges are included, so you’re ready to go.
- It’s easy to load and shoot.
What Could Be Improved:
- The barrel is smooth bore, which is good for BBs but not for pellets.
- The plastic construction, while lightweight, might not feel as robust as a metal gun.
- For more serious target shooting, a rifled barrel would offer better accuracy.
This Daisy Powerline 415 kit is a fantastic starter set for anyone looking for an affordable and fun way to practice their aim. It’s a great way to introduce new shooters to the sport.
5. Crosman 2240 .22-Caliber Bolt Action Single-Shot CO2-Powered Air Pistol
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for some serious fun with the Crosman 2240 .22-Caliber Bolt Action Single-Shot CO2-Powered Air Pistol. This air pistol is designed for accuracy and power, making it a fantastic choice for a variety of shooting activities. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your aim or just enjoy some backyard plinking, the 2240 delivers a reliable and enjoyable experience.
What We Like:
- The bolt action is super smooth and makes cocking the pistol a breeze.
- It shoots .22-caliber pellets, giving you plenty of power for targets.
- The speeds can reach up to 460 feet per second, which is impressive for an air pistol.
- Its ambidextrous grip feels great in your hand, offering a balanced and comfortable hold for everyone.
- This pistol is perfect for practicing your shooting skills, having fun plinking, or even taking care of small pests.
- It’s a great way to start your airgun adventures with the trusted Crosman brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- You’ll need to buy your own 12-gram CO2 cartridges separately.
- It’s a single-shot pistol, so you have to reload after every shot.
The Crosman 2240 is a solid air pistol that offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s an excellent tool for developing your shooting skills and enjoying outdoor fun.
Choosing Your First .22 Pistol: A Beginner’s Guide
Buying your first .22 pistol can be exciting! These small-caliber firearms are great for learning to shoot, practicing your aim, and even for some small pest control. This guide will help you understand what to look for so you make a smart choice.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at .22 pistols, keep these important features in mind:
- Caliber: You’re already looking at .22, which is a fantastic choice for beginners. It’s less powerful than larger calibers, meaning less recoil (kick). This makes it easier to control and learn with.
- Action Type:
- Semi-automatic: These pistols fire one shot and then automatically load the next round. They are very common and user-friendly.
- Revolver: These have a cylinder that rotates to bring a new round into firing position. They are often simpler to operate and can be very reliable.
- Sights: Good sights help you aim accurately. Many .22 pistols have adjustable rear sights, which let you fine-tune your aim. Some also have fiber optic front sights, which are bright and easy to see.
- Grip: The grip is how you hold the pistol. It should feel comfortable in your hand. A good grip helps you control the pistol better. Some grips are made of rubber, which can be softer and easier to hold.
- Safety Features: Look for pistols with manual safeties. These are levers or buttons you can engage to prevent the pistol from firing accidentally. Many also have a trigger safety, which is a small lever on the trigger itself.
2. Important Materials
The materials used to make a .22 pistol affect its weight, durability, and how it feels.
- Frame: The frame is the main body of the pistol.
- Aluminum Alloy: Many .22 pistols use aluminum alloy. This makes them lighter, which is good for beginners who might be holding the pistol for a while.
- Polymer: Some modern pistols use strong plastic, called polymer. Polymer frames are also light and can be very durable.
- Steel: While less common for .22 pistols due to weight, steel frames are known for their strength and longevity.
- Slide and Barrel: The slide is the moving part of a semi-automatic pistol, and the barrel is where the bullet travels.
- Steel: Most slides and barrels are made of steel. This is important for strength and to handle the heat and pressure of firing.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a .22 pistol better or worse.
- Fit and Finish: When you hold the pistol, parts should fit together smoothly. There shouldn’t be any rough edges or gaps. A well-made pistol feels solid.
- Reliability: A quality .22 pistol will fire every time you pull the trigger, without jamming. This is very important, especially when you are learning.
- Accuracy: How well the pistol shoots where you aim is its accuracy. Good .22 pistols are surprisingly accurate for their size.
- Ease of Maintenance: Some pistols are easier to clean and take apart than others. Simple maintenance helps keep your pistol in good working order.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known firearm brands often have a good reputation for quality and customer support.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your .22 pistol will influence your choice.
- Target Practice and Training: .22 pistols are perfect for this. Their low recoil and affordable ammunition mean you can shoot a lot without getting tired or spending too much money. This helps you build good shooting habits.
- Plinking: This is a fun term for casual shooting at targets like cans or paper. .22 pistols are ideal for a day at the range or in a safe backyard area.
- Pest Control: For small nuisance animals like squirrels or rats, a .22 pistol can be an effective tool. Always check local laws and regulations regarding pest control.
- Self-Defense (with caution): While a .22 is not typically recommended as a primary self-defense firearm due to its lower power, some people choose it for its ease of use and low recoil, especially if they have difficulty with larger calibers. However, it’s important to understand its limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions about .22 Pistols
Q: What makes a .22 pistol good for beginners?
A: .22 pistols are good for beginners because they have very little recoil, which is the kick you feel when you shoot. This makes them easier to control and learn with. The ammunition is also usually cheaper, so you can practice more.
Q: Are .22 pistols safe?
A: All firearms require careful handling and respect. .22 pistols are safe when handled according to safety rules, like always pointing them in a safe direction and keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Many have safety features to help prevent accidents.
Q: What kind of ammunition does a .22 pistol use?
A: A .22 pistol uses .22 caliber ammunition. There are different types, like .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR), which is the most common. It’s usually small and rimfire.
Q: How much does a .22 pistol cost?
A: Prices can vary a lot. You can find basic .22 pistols for a few hundred dollars. More advanced or feature-rich models can cost more, sometimes up to $500 or more.
Q: Do I need a license to buy a .22 pistol?
A: In the United States, laws vary by state and sometimes by city. You will likely need to be of a certain age (usually 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns from a licensed dealer) and pass a background check. Check your local laws.
Q: How do I clean a .22 pistol?
A: Cleaning involves using a cleaning rod, brushes, solvent, and oil. You usually disassemble the pistol slightly, clean the barrel and other parts, and then reassemble it. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can I use a .22 pistol for self-defense?
A: While a .22 pistol can be used for self-defense, it’s generally considered less powerful than larger calibers. It might be a choice for someone who cannot handle larger firearms, but it’s important to understand its limitations and practice diligently.
Q: What is “plinking”?
A: Plinking is a fun way to describe casual shooting for enjoyment, often at targets like tin cans or paper targets in a safe outdoor area. .22 pistols are perfect for this activity.
Q: Are .22 pistols loud?
A: Yes, all firearms make noise. .22 pistols are generally not as loud as larger caliber handguns, but ear protection is always recommended when shooting.
Q: Where can I shoot my .22 pistol?
A: You can shoot at approved shooting ranges. Some private properties may allow shooting if it’s safe and legal according to local laws and ordinances. Always ensure you are in a safe environment with appropriate backstops.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.