The Best .22 LR Pistols: A Comprehensive Comparison

Whether you’re a beginner looking for a low recoil practice pistol or an experienced shooter in need of a competition ready firearm, .22 LR pistols are an excellent choice. With their affordability, light recoil, and precision, these pistols are versatile and perfect for target shooting, plinking, and training.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore and compare six of the best .22 LR pistols available today, Ruger Mark IV Tactical, Ruger Mark IV Lite, Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory, Browning Buck Mark, Taurus TX22, and Walther P22 Q...to help you make an informed decision.

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1. Ruger Mark IV Tactical – Best for Precision and Easy Maintenance

Key Features:

• Barrel Length: 4.4 inches
• Capacity: 10+1
• Weight: 33.3 oz
• MSRP: ~$600

The Ruger Mark IV Tactical is a precision shooter’s dream. With its one button takedown, cleaning and maintenance are remarkably simple. It features a threaded barrel and Picatinny rails, allowing for suppressor attachments and optics customization.

Best Use: Target shooting and small game hunting.

Pros:

• Suppressor and optics-ready.
• Unmatched precision and reliability.
• Quick and easy disassembly.
• Weight helps with precision and follow up shots

Cons:

• Heavier compared to other models.
• Higher price point.

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2. Ruger Mark IV Lite – Best Lightweight and Customizable Option

Key Features:

• Barrel Length: 4.4 inches
• Capacity: 10+1
• Weight: 25 oz
• MSRP: ~$650

The Ruger Mark IV Lite offers the same exceptional performance as the Tactical model but in a lightweight aluminum frame. It’s designed for those who want the precision and reliability of the Mark IV series without the added weight.

Its threaded barrel and optic rail make it suppressor ready and easily customizable. This model is ideal for competition shooting or long days at the range where a lighter firearm reduces fatigue.

Best Use: Competition shooting and extended range practice.

Pros:

• Lightweight design reduces fatigue.
• Customizable with optics and suppressors.
• Quick takedown for easy maintenance.

Cons:

• More expensive than some competitors.
• May feel less solid due to the lightweight build.

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3. Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory – Most Versatile and Customizable

Key Features:

• Barrel Length: 5.5 inches
• Capacity: 10+1
• Weight: 36 oz
• MSRP: ~$450

The SW22 Victory features a match grade barrel and offers excellent accuracy for competitive and recreational shooting. Its modular design allows for barrel swaps, and it comes with fiber-optic sights for faster target acquisition.

Best Use: Target shooting and competitive sports.

Pros:

• Modular and customizable design.
• Match grade accuracy.
• Comfortable ergonomic grip.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier compared to others.
• May require upgrades for competition use.

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4. Browning Buck Mark – Best Trigger and Ergonomics

Key Features:

• Barrel Length: 5.5 inches
• Capacity: 10+1
• Weight: 34 oz
• MSRP: ~$500-$899

The Browning Buck Mark is celebrated for its crisp trigger pull and ergonomic grip, providing one of the best shooting experiences in its class. Its adjustable sights and solid construction make it a favorite for competitive shooters and precision enthusiasts.

Best Use: Competitive shooting and training.

Pros:

• Exceptional trigger and grip comfort.
• Durable and built to last.
• Highly accurate.

Cons:

• Limited aftermarket upgrades.
• Heavier than polymer-frame models.

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5. Taurus TX22 – Best Budget-Friendly and High-Capacity Option

Key Features:

• Barrel Length: 4.1 inches
• Capacity: 16+1
• Weight: 17.3 oz
• MSRP: ~$350

For budget-conscious shooters, the Taurus TX22 delivers impressive value. Its 16+1 capacity exceeds most competitors, and the lightweight polymer frame makes it easy to carry and handle.

It’s also reliable and beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for training and casual target shooting.

Best Use: Affordable plinking and training.

Pros:

• Lightweight and high-capacity (16+1).
• Affordable and beginner-friendly.
• Excellent grip and ergonomics.

Cons:

• Less precise than higher-end models.
• Mushy trigger
• Polymer frame may feel less durable.

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6. Walther P22 Q – Best Compact and Versatile Design

Key Features:

• Barrel Length: 3.42 inches
• Capacity: 10+1
• Weight: 17 oz
• MSRP: ~$400

The Walther P22 Q combines a compact design with ambidextrous controls, making it ideal for both left and right handed shooters. It’s lightweight and features interchangeable backstraps for a customized grip.

Best Use: Training and concealed carry.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design.
• Ambidextrous and customizable grip.
• Great for beginners.

Cons:

• Limited accuracy due to shorter barrel.
• Lower capacity than competitors.

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Final Verdict: Which .22 LR Pistol is Right for You?

• Best for Precision and Maintenance: Ruger Mark IV Tactical – Ideal for target shooting and small game hunting.
• Best Lightweight and Customizable: Ruger Mark IV Lite – Great for long shooting sessions and competition.
• Most Versatile and Modular: Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory – Perfect for competitive shooters.
• Top Ergonomics and Trigger: Browning Buck Mark – Excellent for precision shooting.
• Best Budget Option with High Capacity: Taurus TX22 – Ideal for beginners and plinking.
• Best Compact and Versatile Design: Walther P22 Q – Perfect for concealed carry and training.

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Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for precision, customization, or affordability, there’s a .22 LR pistol that fits your needs. From the Ruger Mark IV Lite for lightweight performance to the Taurus TX22 for high capacity affordability, each model brings something unique to the table.

HAPPY SHOOTING!