Smith & Wesson M&P 22X: First Shots & Real Thoughts

Published on February 21, 2026
Duration: 13:45

This review of the Smith & Wesson M&P 22X highlights its ergonomic design, optics-ready capability, and ambidextrous controls. While the firearm itself is praised for its feel, trigger, and lack of recoil, the initial range session revealed significant reliability issues attributed to bulk .22LR ammunition. Testing with higher-quality Remington ammo confirmed the gun's potential when paired with suitable ammunition, making it a viable option for training or recreational shooting.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P 22X is an optics-ready .22LR pistol with ambidextrous controls and a Picatinny rail. While praised for its ergonomics and trigger, initial testing revealed reliability issues likely due to ammunition. With higher-quality ammo like Remington .22 Golden Bullet, the firearm performed well, indicating it's a good option for training when paired with suitable ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Previous Taurus TX22 Review
  2. 00:17Introducing the Smith & Wesson M&P 22X
  3. 00:27Ergonomics and Grip Feel
  4. 00:44Key Features: Optics Ready, Picatinny Rail, Ambi Controls
  5. 00:59Trigger Feel and Sound
  6. 01:18Magazine Capacity and Loading
  7. 01:30Slide Serrations and Sights
  8. 02:03.22 Caliber Benefits for Training
  9. 02:50First Shots & Light Primer Strike Malfunction
  10. 04:06More Shooting & Suspected Ammo Issues
  11. 05:15Design and Handling Review
  12. 05:51Range Session & Failure to Feed
  13. 08:01Final Shooting Impressions & Ammo Comparison
  14. 09:05Overall M&P 22X Review: Pros and Cons
  15. 10:26Testing Remington Ammo for Reliability
  16. 11:18Conclusion: Ammo Specificity & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson M&P 22X?

The M&P 22X is optics-ready, features an ambidextrous magazine release and safety, and includes a Picatinny-style rail for accessories. It also boasts rear slide serrations and a green fiber optic front sight paired with a blacked-out U-notch rear sight.

What kind of trigger does the Smith & Wesson M&P 22X have?

The M&P 22X features a flat-faced trigger with typical M&P trigger travel and reset. The trigger pull is described as feeling nice, with a nearly 90-degree flat face, which is a preferred characteristic for many shooters.

What issues were encountered during the Smith & Wesson M&P 22X range test?

During the initial range test, the M&P 22X experienced light primer strikes and failures to feed. These malfunctions were primarily attributed to the use of low-quality bulk .22LR ammunition.

Is the Smith & Wesson M&P 22X reliable?

The reliability of the M&P 22X appears to be highly dependent on the ammunition used. While it malfunctioned with bulk .22LR, it ran flawlessly with Remington .22 Golden Bullet, suggesting it may be ammo-specific.

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