Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum: A New Age for Rimfire?

Published on September 28, 2023
Duration: 12:08

This review of the Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum highlights its potential as a high-capacity rimfire pistol. Expert analysis from Lucky Gunner Ammo details its features, including the Tempo barrel system and RMSc optics footprint, while also addressing reliability with certain ammunition types and heat-related issues during rapid fire. The M&P 22 Magnum is presented as a capable option for plinking and training, though its suitability for self-defense is debated against 9mm alternatives.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum is a gas-operated, rimfire pistol with a 30-round capacity and a 4.35-inch barrel. It features the Tempo barrel system for reliable cycling and offers excellent accuracy with average 25-yard groups between 1-2 inches. However, it can be sensitive to certain ammunition profiles and prone to heat-related extraction failures during rapid fire, necessitating cooldown periods.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M&P 22 Magnum & Market Trends
  2. 00:54Basic Specs and Features
  3. 01:45Optics Mounting Considerations
  4. 02:35Magazine Capacity and Comparison
  5. 03:57Design Critiques and Potential Improvements
  6. 05:07Internal Mechanism: Tempo Barrel System Explained
  7. 06:23Reliability and Ammunition Sensitivity Testing
  8. 07:15Heat-Related Issues During Rapid Fire
  9. 09:00Shooting Experience and Accuracy Assessment
  10. 09:49Self-Defense Suitability and Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum?

The Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum features a high-capacity 30-round magazine, positioning it as a significant contender in the rimfire pistol market for extended shooting sessions.

How does the M&P 22 Magnum's Tempo barrel system work?

The Tempo barrel system is gas-operated, using a port near the muzzle to bleed gas pressure. This pressure pushes the barrel rearward with the slide, allowing for reliable cycling with various ammunition types.

What are the accuracy expectations for the M&P 22 Magnum?

The M&P 22 Magnum demonstrates impressive accuracy for a stock handgun, with expert testing showing average 25-yard group sizes ranging between 1 and 2 inches, making it suitable for plinking and training.

Are there any reliability concerns with the M&P 22 Magnum?

While generally reliable, the M&P 22 Magnum can experience issues with specific ammunition, particularly flat-tipped rounds, and is susceptible to heat-related extraction failures during prolonged rapid fire, requiring cooldown periods.

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