Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact

When it comes to pistols, the Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact is often overshadowed by its larger caliber counterparts. However, this little rimfire powerhouse offers something that many handguns in the market don't: a perfect blend of fun, practicality, and affordability. Whether you're a first-time shooter looking for a firearm that's easy to handle or a seasoned gun enthusiast seeking an affordable plinker for the range, the M&P22 Compact has a lot to offer.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes the M&P22 Compact stand out in the crowded market of .22 LR pistols, its key features, and why it might be the perfect choice for you, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned shooter. We'll also touch on its versatility, from training and practice to potential self-defense applications.

First Impressions: Why the M&P22 Compact Grabs Your Attention

At first glance, the Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact may look just like its larger siblings in the M&P lineup, but don’t be fooled by its resemblance to the M&P9 and M&P45. This compact pistol is chambered in .22 Long Rifle, a favorite among gun enthusiasts for its affordability and ease of shooting. Right out of the box, the M&P22 Compact is ready to impress. With its sleek, polymer frame, serrated slide, and ambidextrous controls, it offers a premium feel without the hefty recoil or high cost of ammunition.

But the real magic of the M&P22 Compact comes in its size. As the name suggests, it’s compact, with a 3.6-inch barrel and a total length of just 6.65 inches. Weighing in at a light 15.3 ounces, this gun is designed for easy handling, making it perfect for younger or smaller shooters as well as those just getting started with firearms.

This makes the M&P22 Compact not just a reliable pistol but also an incredibly approachable one for a wide variety of shooters.

M&P22 Compact in FDE color — M&P22 Compact

Key Features that Set the M&P22 Compact Apart

Though the M&P22 Compact is a smaller gun, Smith & Wesson didn’t cut any corners when it came to the features and functionality of this pistol. Let's take a look at some of the aspects that make this compact handgun a standout in its category:

1. Lightweight and Ergonomic Design

As mentioned earlier, the M&P22 Compact is light—very light. Weighing in at just over 15 ounces, it is perfect for long shooting sessions without fatigue. The grip is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in smaller hands but still offers plenty of room for those with larger hands. The texture on the grip is just right, providing enough friction to maintain control without feeling too aggressive. This makes it an excellent training gun, especially for those who want to practice handling without the challenge of managing heavy recoil.

2. Ambidextrous Controls

One of the key selling points of the M&P22 Compact is its ambidextrous controls. Both left- and right-handed shooters can comfortably operate the safety and slide stop. This feature is a big plus for left-handed shooters, who often find themselves limited in options or needing to adapt to right-handed configurations.

3. Suppressor-Ready Barrel

If you’re someone who enjoys a quieter shooting experience, you’ll be glad to know that the M&P22 Compact comes with a suppressor-ready barrel. This threaded barrel makes it easy to attach a suppressor, adding to the versatility of this gun. Whether you’re out at the range practicing or using it for small game hunting, attaching a suppressor can reduce noise and make shooting even more enjoyable.

4. Adjustable Rear Sights

The M&P22 Compact comes equipped with adjustable rear sights, allowing for easy customization depending on your shooting preferences. This feature is typically found in higher-end pistols and allows the shooter to dial in their accuracy. Whether you're shooting at paper targets or metal plates, the ability to adjust your sights will help ensure you hit your mark consistently.

5. Affordable Ammunition

One of the biggest advantages of owning a .22 LR pistol is the cost of ammunition. Unlike 9mm or larger calibers, .22 LR rounds are inexpensive and plentiful, meaning you can shoot all day without breaking the bank. The affordability of the M&P22 Compact extends beyond the initial purchase price, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious shooters.

Why the M&P22 Compact is a Great Training Tool

One of the primary reasons many gun enthusiasts and professionals recommend the Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact is its value as a training tool. Because the pistol closely resembles the larger M&P models, it allows for realistic training at a fraction of the cost.

For example, if you regularly carry or shoot a 9mm or .45 ACP version of the M&P, transitioning to the M&P22 Compact for practice is seamless. The controls, feel, and function are all similar, meaning you can work on your shooting fundamentals without the cost of larger caliber ammunition. This makes it a great option for law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, and even casual gun owners who want to keep their skills sharp.

The low recoil of the .22 LR round is ideal for beginners who may be intimidated by larger calibers. It allows new shooters to focus on the basics, such as sight alignment, trigger control, and handling, without worrying about heavy recoil or noise.

Is the M&P22 Compact Good for Self-Defense?

While the .22 LR round isn't typically considered ideal for self-defense, the M&P22 Compact can still serve a role in personal protection under certain circumstances. The small size, light weight, and ease of use make it a good option for those who may not be able to handle larger calibers, such as elderly individuals or people with physical limitations. It’s also a viable option for small game hunting or pest control in rural settings.

Of course, there are better-caliber options for self-defense, but the M&P22 Compact could serve as a backup or a “last-ditch” firearm if needed. The key here is shot placement—being able to accurately place rounds on target is more important than the size of the round itself.

Customization Options for the M&P22 Compact

While the M&P22 Compact isn’t as customizable as some other firearms in the Smith & Wesson lineup, there are still a few ways to make it your own. The threaded barrel allows for the easy addition of a suppressor, and there are various aftermarket sights available if you want to upgrade the stock adjustable sights.

Some shooters also choose to enhance the grip texture with aftermarket stippling or add lights and lasers to the rail. Although it’s not a gun that typically gets tricked out with a lot of accessories, the options for personalization are there for those who want them.

Real-World Performance and Popularity

Since its introduction, the M&P22 Compact has garnered a loyal following. From hobbyists to serious shooters, the gun has earned a reputation for reliability, accuracy, and sheer fun. At the range, it's praised for its consistent performance and low recoil, making it ideal for teaching new shooters or simply plinking at targets.

Numerous reviews and firsthand reports highlight how the M&P22 Compact performs in various conditions. It's known for feeding reliably, even with less expensive ammunition, and for requiring minimal maintenance compared to other rimfire pistols.

Final Thoughts: Why the M&P22 Compact is a Must-Have

Whether you're a seasoned shooter looking for a reliable plinker or a newcomer to firearms, the Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact is a gun you should seriously consider. Its lightweight design, affordable ammunition, and versatility make it a fantastic addition to any collection.

But beyond just being fun to shoot, the M&P22 Compact is a smart purchase for those looking to train, introduce new shooters to the sport, or just enjoy a day at the range without the costs that come with larger caliber firearms.

At the end of the day, the M&P22 Compact represents what Smith & Wesson does best: producing high-quality firearms that are reliable, functional, and enjoyable to shoot. So, if you’re in the market for a .22 pistol, don’t overlook this compact powerhouse. You might just find it’s the most fun you’ve ever had with a firearm.