In honor of Taylor Swift’s record-setting album release, I thought it best to honor her achievements by acknowledging one of her most famous songs. Although I am long past the age of 22 (though I keep telling my wife I’m Twenty-Two plus eleven), it got me thinking about the need for a good 22 caliber rimfire pistol. Now, for some clarification for those in the back—when I write about .22 rimfire ammo or guns, I’m only referring to .22 Long Rifle (or .22 LR). I am not referring to 22 shorts, 22 longs, 22 magnums, or any other 22 rimfire-style cartridge. If I do, then I will clarify—now back to the topic at hand. Specifically, 22 rimfire pistols, like the Taurus TX22.
Landing on the Taurus TX22
I think most will agree that a 22 pistol is a ton of fun to shoot. The minimal recoil and affordable ammunition mean people can invest time in it. While many consider shooting a .22 as a casual event, I argue that it can be much more than that. Shooting 22 pistols is a serious training tool and a great way to introduce new shooters to the sport.
And that’s where the point of this article comes in—rimfires, whether rifle or pistol, should be considered for serious training, not only casual plinking.
The Types
However, before breaking down firearm and gear recommendations, I would like to discuss the two main types of .22 pistols: target and training. Many may not realize it, but two styles of 22 pistols dominate the market. The “target” style is the one most are familiar with. This category comprises the likes of the Ruger Mark series, the Browning Buckmark, the Smith & Wesson Victory, and the Model 41 (RIP), among others.
The general linking feature between the models listed above is that they use a solid slide where only the—let’s call it bolt—reciprocates. These use single-stack ten-round magazines and are generally relatively large guns. The primary downfall is that they aren’t a facsimile of any modern duty or carry gun.
As for the training category, they are almost the exact opposite, other than caliber, of target-style guns. First, these pistols feature reciprocating slides that more closely replicate the function of modern handguns. Additionally, the newest models are hitting the market with capacities ranging from 16 to over 20 rounds. Most are coming optics-ready and threaded as well.
But they do have some drawbacks. Generally, they are a bit picky with ammo, especially anything under 1,200 fps. With the newer, higher-capacity magazines, I’ve also encountered some feeding issues with hollow-point projectiles. But most of the drawbacks can be overcome.
Other Qualifiers
For a long time, the go-to pistols in the training category were the Walther P22, Sig Sauer Mosquito, and the Smith & Wesson M&P22C. Due to these models, negative connotations have developed around this style of 22 rimfire. Firstly, when these pistols were introduced, the availability of high-velocity .22 ammo was severely limited. Most of it was standard velocity (which is usually about 1000 to 1080fps) and therefore didn’t always have enough inertia to reciprocate the slide rearward. Also, the bullet shape oftentimes caused feeding issues.
It wasn’t uncommon for hollow points or soft lead projectiles to cut into the feed ramp, usually causing a failure to feed. Many users complained about these deficiencies without realizing the cause wasn’t necessarily due to the handgun.
Fortunately, CCI stepped in with the now common 22 Mini-Mag. This loading propels a 40-grain bullet at 1,200 feet per second, providing the energy needed to operate the slide. Nowadays, finding 22 ammo at or over 1200fps is common.
Today, there are more options than ever for high-quality 22 pistols that align with current market trends, providing the end user with a plethora of choices. These include the Glock 44, the FN 502, the Taurus TX22 (and TX22c), and the Sig Sauer 322. While more options exist, including those mentioned previously, these four have come to dominate the market.
My Selection
The Taurus TX22 Gen 2 and its variants offer great value for the price. Usually found for around $300 or less, this rimfire pistol packs a lot of features. First, the Gen 1 broke the trend of magazine capacity by increasing it to 16 rounds. Next, the gun comes standard with a barrel threaded 1/2×28 for suppressors. The sights are adjustable and sufficient, but if you choose one of the TORO models, it comes optics-ready. If the standard TX22 feels too large, go for the compact model instead.
The full-size TX22 is somewhat large but very lightweight. In shooting, it handled mini-mag ammo well, even when suppressed. Standard velocity and subsonic ammo did not generate enough energy to reciprocate the slide. I highly recommend the Taurus TX as a serious training tool; however, its size and shape mean it doesn’t necessarily match up with an equivalent in a centerfire pistol.
Making it Better
While the factory model is fine, a few simple upgrades from my friends at TANDEMKROSS make it into an entirely different gun.
- Halo Charing Ring: For quick and easy slide manipulation. Especially helpful with new shooters or those with dexterity issues.
- Victory Trigger: While the factory trigger is fine, this replacement really enhances the shooting experience. Also, I prefer flat-faced triggers.
- Lightened Trigger Spring: Coupled with the above replacement, this further optimized the platform.
- Titan Extended Magazine Release: This is ideal for shooters with smaller hands, as it provides more purchase for operating the magazine release.
- Silencerco Warlock II: Every rimfire begs a suppressor; it just makes everything more fun. You don’t need to buy the most expensive option. (Unfortunately, it’s no longer in production.)
This was all relatively easy to assemble, especially when following the guides on TANDEMKROSS. Remember, patience and a steady hand are what is needed.
Final Thoughts
A 22 pistol should be part of every gun collector’s or enthusiast’s arsenal. Instead of just being used for casual plinking, it should be considered a serious training tool. These guns are affordable and have low recoil, making it easier to focus on fundamentals. This will lead to better handling of your primary sidearm.
After years of working behind the gun counter, the TX22 has been my recommendation for this type of pistol. With a few affordable accessories from TANDEMKROSS, the gun really punches above its weight class. Furthermore, this pistol makes an excellent introduction for new and inexperienced shooters, which is an ideal way to promote interest in the shooting sports.
So, with all that said, go out and enjoy shooting.
If you like this, check out this full TX22 review by Travis Pike.
