The Best .22 LR Handguns for Concealed Carry

Published on December 17, 2018
Duration: 10:09

Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo provides an expert review of .22 LR handguns for concealed carry, detailing their pros and cons. He emphasizes that while .22 LR offers low recoil and cost, encouraging practice, it has lower ballistic performance and potential reliability issues compared to centerfire calibers. Baker recommends specific models like the Smith & Wesson Model 43 C and Ruger LCR 22 revolvers for their reliability, and the S&W M&P22 Compact for those seeking a more reliable semi-automatic option.

Quick Summary

Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo reviews .22 LR handguns for concealed carry, noting their low recoil and cost benefits for practice. However, he cautions about lower ballistic performance and potential reliability issues. Baker recommends double-action revolvers like the S&W 43 C and Ruger LCR 22 for better reliability, and the S&W M&P22 Compact as a dependable semi-automatic option.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: .22 LR for Concealed Carry Pros & Cons
  2. 00:55Top Revolver Picks: S&W 43 C & Ruger LCR 22
  3. 03:37Pocket Semi-Auto: Beretta 21A Bobcat Review
  4. 05:30Caution on Budget .22 Semi-Autos
  5. 06:19Compact Semi-Auto: S&W M&P22 Compact
  6. 07:08Alternative: .380 ACP for Better Performance
  7. 07:30Other Compact .22 Models Evaluated
  8. 09:09Mini Revolvers: Limited Self-Defense Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of using a .22 LR handgun for concealed carry?

The primary advantages of .22 LR handguns for concealed carry are their significantly lower recoil, which makes them easier to shoot accurately, and their lower cost, which encourages more frequent practice. This accessibility can be beneficial for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.

What are the biggest drawbacks of .22 LR for self-defense compared to centerfire calibers?

The main drawbacks of .22 LR for self-defense are its lower ballistic performance, meaning less energy transfer to the target, and potential reliability issues. While some .22 LR firearms are reliable, many can be more prone to malfunctions like failures to feed or extract compared to their centerfire counterparts.

Which types of .22 LR handguns are recommended for concealed carry to improve reliability?

For concealed carry, double-action revolvers are often recommended for .22 LR to mitigate reliability issues. Models like the Smith & Wesson Model 43 C and the Ruger LCR 22 are highlighted for their robust design and capacity suitable for self-defense.

Are there any reliable compact .22 LR semi-automatic handguns suitable for concealed carry?

Yes, the Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact is noted for its high reliability and capacity (10+1 rounds), making it a strong choice among compact .22 LR semi-automatic handguns for concealed carry, especially for those who can accommodate a slightly larger firearm.

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