Looking to buy an accurate .22LR pistol when I get back from Iraq. Was a competitor, but don't need that sort intensity today. Just want a good .22 with a decent trigger, decent adjustable sights, 6" bbl, and decent accuracy. Willing to pay up to $500, but always interested in "best buys."

Smith M617 is about as smooth as you can get & taking no great loss of value in future years...they're in the $500-$600 range, (know where one is in Fla.).....auction winner this weekend for M617 (no dash) 8 3/8 bbl....one classy gun. r in s.

I really enjoy shooting my Ruger Mk II. It's as accurate as most 22 RF rifles. Mine is the version with an approximately 4-1/2" standard weight barrel with adjustable sights - handy to carry and easy to shoot.

Any of the Rugers equipped as you ike them.... or Browning Buckmark....

Thanks for your service...

quote:

Originally posted by billinthewild:
Any of the Rugers equipped as you ike them.... or Browning Buckmark....

Thanks for your service...

Seems like spot on advice.

I have a Ruger MKII (fixed sights), a Ruger 22/45 (adjustable sights), and Beretta Neos (adjustable sights but using a red dot sight). They are all about the same group size, but the Rugers are more solidly built.

Hi guys. Thanks for the advice. It kinda went along with my current thinking. The revolver, I like the safety of it. The autos, the accuracy.
Am in Iraq as a contractor installing and teaching soldiers how to use a really really hi-def optical and IR sensor system. Would you believe reading a license plate at well over one mile...the expiration tags too! Oh, and I'm 61, a Viet Nam vet.
Max

prof242
The Smith & Wesson Model 18 is a great wheel gun, awesome action, trigger can be easily tweaked, and they just keep on going. Found a used one a few years ago (pre-lock), it is by far the most accurate .22 wheel gun I shoot. A true classic.

Another option is the Taurus wheel guns, they are very well made, accurate and are a great value.

Lad,

If you read these threads closely (and I see you are) you will quickly come to the realization that the recommended guns are made in America .

I personally prefer (and own) Ruger pistols. I have a customized MK II slab side for competition, a 22/45 for hunting/plinking, a P90 for serious carry and a Super Blackhawk in 357 for everything else. Also, lots of rifles!!!

Buy a quality, name-brand American gun that you feel COMFORTABLE handling (this makes it inherently more safe in your hands). Shoot it a lot and express the freedom you have worked hard for on our behalf.

Mike

Within your price limitations, I'd get one of the variations of the Ruger .22 auto that you like and get a trigger job or install a Volquartsen trigger and you'll be good for any of your stated purposes.

For a bit more money, I'd look for a used Smith 41 or you can get a decent used Hi Standard in your price range. Barrels are readily available for High Standards and swap out with the push of a button, so you could go from scoped (or red dotted) to non-scoped easily if you so desired.

Michael, I'm an ex-Michigander now living in Colorado.
The two most recommended pistols, the Ruger Target and the S&W revolver are the two I've been really leaning toward. Just was interested to see if there was something I'd overlooked. Shot both the Ruger and the S&W 41 in competition when I was with the Air Force Marksmanship School many many years ago.

Prof,

My experience w/S&W wheelguns is regretably limited, but the Kit gun I owned turned out to be a foolish sale on my part. It was accurate, easy to carry, had a great trigger and would have ultimately given me more use and pleasure than the car payment it was sold for.

I do have a Model 28 I would not sell (even to fund a Vette!!).

Before you end up w/your prize, I know you'll enjoy the competition of the choice!!

Mike

prof242, no one has mentioned the S&W model 22A. I have one and it is extremely accurate with a red dot sight. I can show you groups if you wish. It is not a target gun like a Hi Standard or S&W model 41, mainly because the triggers on the latter two pistols are excellent (I have both).
Peter.