Smith & Wesson Model 22

If you’re looking for a revolver that’s got both a vintage soul and some modern-day chops, the Smith & Wesson Model 22 is hard to beat. This beauty’s got that classic look but also brings the weight and bulk that revolvers are known for. Sure, it packs a punch with .45 ACP, making it great for the range and personal defense, but it might not be the easiest to conceal. With its sleek blue finish and smooth walnut grips, it’s easy on the eyes, though some might find it a bit too vintage in design. Whether you’re a collector chasing that retro vibe or just love a dependable shooter (even with a few quirks), the Model 22’s got you covered. Let’s see what makes this revolver a standout, drawbacks and all!

Bottomline

The Smith & Wesson Model 22 is perfect for anyone who loves a good-looking piece that’s just as at home at the range as it is in a personal defense setup.

Smith & Wesson Model 22 Specs

Caliber	Capacity	OAL	BBL	Weight
.45 ACP	6	9.25″	4″	36.8 oz. unloaded
.45 ACP	6	10.875″	5.5″	37.2 oz. unloaded

Smith & Wesson Model 22 First Impression

The Smith & Wesson Model 22 is simple but stylish. We also find the design pretty appealing. The full-length Weaver rail on top is a nice touch for adding optics, though it makes gripping the slide a bit tricky. When you first pick it up, the grip feels comfy but a little front-heavy, which can throw off the balance if you’re shooting for a while. The magazine release is a mixed bag, too, once you get used to it, it’s fine, but it can be a bit awkward at first.

Smith & Wesson Model 22 Features

Smooth Trigger with Minimal Slack

The trigger on the M22A-1 is a real highlight! It’s single-action, so you get a nice, smooth pull with barely any slack before it breaks clean. It’s light and super responsive, think “breaking like glass.” This feature really boosts the pistol’s accuracy. You’ll love it if you’re into precision in your shots.

Negligible Recoil

The Model 22 is a breeze to shoot, thanks to its barely-there recoil. This makes it fun and comfortable for shooters of all levels, allowing for fast follow-up shots and less arm fatigue during longer sessions. It’s especially great for beginners who might feel a bit nervous around guns with more kick.

Adjustable Sights

The Model 22 has adjustable sights, so you can easily tweak your aim for windage and elevation. The rear sight is super easy to adjust, which is a big plus for dialing in accuracy at different distances. This feature is perfect for hitting the mark in target practice or competitive shooting, where precision really matters.

Full-Length Weaver Style Rail

The Model 22’s full-length Weaver rail gives you plenty of options for adding optics and accessories. You can easily mount a red dot or scope to boost your aiming and overall performance. Just a heads-up, though, you might find the rail’s position can make gripping the slide a bit tricky, especially when trying to rack it with attachments in place.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Smith & Wesson Model 22 makes a solid first impression with its sturdy build, fun shooting feel, and great value for what you get. Sure, there are a few quirks, like a bit of an ergonomic challenge here and there, and it can be picky with certain ammo, but most people find that the pros far outweigh these minor drawbacks. It’s a revolver with a lot of charm that delivers where it counts for most shooters.