The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 is a popular .22 Long Rifle (LR) variant of the AR-15 platform. This lightweight and affordable rifle offers a great way to learn the AR-15 system, practice shooting skills, and enjoy plinking at the range without the expense of higher-caliber ammunition. This in-depth guide explores its features, performance, pros, cons, and overall value.
Understanding the M&P15-22's Place in the AR-15 Family
The AR-15 platform's modularity is one of its most attractive features, and Smith & Wesson leveraged this to create a training and plinking rifle chambered in .22 LR. Unlike its larger-caliber counterparts, the M&P15-22 uses a blowback operating system instead of the direct impingement system found in most 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington AR-15s. This simpler system contributes to its lower price and reduced recoil. Its design closely mimics the AR-15 in terms of ergonomics and controls, making it an excellent transition tool for those considering stepping up to a centerfire AR-15.
Key Features of the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Operating System: Blowback
- Capacity: 25-round rotary magazine (some models offer 10-round magazines depending on local regulations)
- Weight: Approximately 5 pounds
- Barrel Length: Typically 16.5 inches
- Overall Length: Approximately 35 inches
- Material: Polymer lower receiver, aluminum upper receiver
- Sights: Typically includes adjustable A2-style sights.
Performance and Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 generally delivers acceptable accuracy for a .22 LR rifle. While it won't match the precision of dedicated target rifles, its accuracy is sufficient for plinking, casual shooting, and training purposes. Accuracy is heavily dependent on the ammunition used, with higher-quality ammunition yielding better results. Expect groups of around 2 inches at 25 yards with decent ammo. Factors like barrel quality and individual gun tolerances also play a role.
Ammunition Considerations
The M&P15-22 is sensitive to the quality of ammunition used. Low-quality, inconsistent ammunition can lead to malfunctions such as stovepipes and failures to feed. Higher-quality ammunition, like CCI Mini-Mags or Federal AutoMatch, will generally provide more reliable operation and improved accuracy. Experimenting with various brands to find what works best in your specific rifle is worthwhile.
Advantages of Owning a Smith & Wesson M&P15-22
- Affordable Training: The low cost of .22 LR ammunition makes the M&P15-22 an economical choice for practicing shooting fundamentals and getting comfortable with the AR-15 platform.
- Reduced Recoil: The .22 LR caliber’s low recoil makes it an excellent rifle for new shooters or those with limited shooting experience.
- AR-15 Familiarization: The M&P15-22’s similar controls and ergonomics provide a realistic training experience for future AR-15 ownership.
- Reliability (with appropriate ammunition): With high-quality ammunition, the M&P15-22 is generally reliable and provides consistent operation.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: The relatively light weight makes the M&P15-22 easy to handle and maneuver.
Disadvantages of the M&P15-22
- Ammunition Sensitivity: The blowback operating system makes the M&P15-22 sensitive to ammunition quality. Using low-quality or inconsistent ammunition can lead to frequent malfunctions.
- Not a Precision Rifle: While accurate enough for plinking and training, it doesn't offer the same level of precision as dedicated target rifles.
- Potential for Malfunctions: Despite its reliability with appropriate ammunition, malfunctions can occur.
- Magazine Reliability: While usually reliable, some users experience issues with magazine feeding.
Conclusion: Is the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Right for You?
The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 is a valuable tool for anyone interested in learning the AR-15 platform, practicing shooting skills, or enjoying affordable plinking. Its lightweight design, low recoil, and AR-15-like ergonomics make it user-friendly and suitable for a wide range of shooters. However, its sensitivity to ammunition quality and potential for malfunctions should be considered. If you're looking for a budget-friendly training rifle or a fun .22 LR option that mirrors the feel of an AR-15, the M&P15-22 is certainly worth considering. Just remember to use high-quality ammunition for optimal performance and reliability.