Eleven .22 Trainers Tested. One Clear Winner

Published on June 29, 2026
Duration: 20:52

This comprehensive review by Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo compares eleven .22LR trainer pistols, categorizing them into 'true trainers' (mimicking specific centerfire models) and 'pseudo-trainers' (general defense pistol look-alikes). The review details reliability, accuracy, speed, and practical shootability tests for each firearm. The Taurus TX22 Toro emerges as the top pick due to its accuracy, speed, ergonomics, and overall value, despite minor magazine and grip criticisms. Other notable mentions include the FN 502 Tactical for its performance and the Kel-Tec P17 for its exceptional value.

Quick Summary

The Taurus TX22 Toro is the top-rated .22LR trainer pistol, excelling in accuracy, speed, and ergonomics, resembling a full-size centerfire duty pistol. It was the most accurate, first in the speed test, and third in the practical test. The FN 502 Tactical was second most accurate and fourth in speed, while the Glock 44 had mixed results. The Kel-Tec P17 offers the best value.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 11 .22 Trainer Pistols Compared
  2. 01:18True Trainers vs. Pseudo-Trainers
  3. 01:24True Trainers: Beretta 92 Kit, Glock Kits, Glock 44
  4. 01:48Pseudo-Trainers: Walther P22, S&W M&P 22C, Kel-Tec P17, S&W M&P 22X, Sig P322, FN 502, Taurus TX22
  5. 02:48Testing Methodology: Reliability, Accuracy, Speed, Practical
  6. 03:20Reliability Test Results
  7. 04:17Speed Test: Smoke and Hope Stage
  8. 05:33Accuracy Test: 25 Yards Bench Rest
  9. 06:34Practical Test: Shootability Assessment
  10. 08:00Review: Beretta 92 Conversion Kit
  11. 09:32Review: Advantage Arms Kit vs. Glock 44
  12. 10:45Review: Walther P22
  13. 11:34Review: Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact
  14. 12:45Review: Kel-Tec P17 - Best Value?
  15. 13:53Review: Sig Sauer P322 - Disappointment
  16. 14:54Review: Smith & Wesson M&P 22X
  17. 15:48Review: FN 502 Tactical
  18. 16:51Review: Taurus TX22 Compact
  19. 17:57Review: Taurus TX22 Toro - Overall Top Pick
  20. 19:41Conclusion and Future Project Rimfire Categories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the two main categories of .22LR trainer pistols discussed in the review?

The review categorizes .22LR trainer pistols into 'true trainers,' which mimic the look and feel of specific centerfire models, and 'pseudo-trainers,' which have the general appearance of centerfire defense pistols but are not based on any specific model. True trainers are often conversion kits or dedicated .22LR versions of popular firearms.

Which .22LR trainer pistol was rated as the best overall performer in the Lucky Gunner Ammo review?

The Taurus TX22 Toro was rated as the overall top pick for a .22LR trainer pistol. It excelled in accuracy, speed, and ergonomics, resembling a full-size centerfire duty pistol more than other pseudo-trainers. It also offers good aftermarket support and is considered a great value.

What were the key testing criteria used to evaluate the eleven .22LR trainer pistols?

The eleven .22LR trainer pistols were evaluated based on four key criteria: reliability (tested with CCI Minimags and Standard Velocity), accuracy (fired from a bench rest at 25 yards), speed (using a Steel Challenge stage), and a practical test assessing shootability (combining time and score on a B8 bullseye target).

Which .22LR trainer pistol offers the best value according to the review?

The Kel-Tec P17 is identified as the best value .22LR trainer pistol. It has a low MSRP of $240, is very lightweight, includes three 16-round magazines, and offers spare magazines at an affordable price. It also features a standard threaded barrel and an optic-ready option.

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