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Tag: 22lr

Thoughts on the .22LR for self defense
I know – “Why would anyone in their right mind ever consider the .22LR for self-defense?” Using the .22 for self-defense is a frequently discussed topic and often creates huge augments. I try to base my opinions on facts and logic with a dash of common sense thrown in.

Here are a few thoughts:
- An extremely high volume of .22LR rounds can be thrown down range upwards of 100 yards give or take – accurately.
- Generally, most .22LR firearms are lighter than larger caliber firearms.
- Semi-auto .22LR firearms are less reliable than their centerfire counterpart.
- Many that are scared or apprehensive to shoot larger caliber firearms find it easier to shoot the .22LR – thus the “First rule of a gunfight is to have a gun.”
- Many real-life self-defense encounter videos have the criminal element running at the first sight or sound of a firearm.
- Statistics show that the .22LR provides a one-shot stop nearly 40% of the time.
- Many .22LR firearms are less expensive than their larger-caliber counterparts. This increases the chances of actual firearm ownership.
- While compared to other handgun calibers velocity of the .22LR is on par or even higher in many cases.
- The mass of the .22LR is significantly less than typical self-defense calibers such as 9mm, 45ACP, and 40S&W.
Let’s just cut to the chase – the .22LR is not the ideal round for self-defense whether at 7 feet or 70 yards. What it most certainly is is an option. It’s an option that in thousands of cases has worked – and in others, it hasn’t – just like every other caliber.

Not everyone is cut out to be Rambo. Not to be sexist, however, it is typically women that are apprehensive to firing larger caliber firearms. .22LR’s? Usually not a problem once they actually get just a little trigger time. This is advantageous in that preparing for any defensive plan requires as many people behind a gun as possible – even if some of those guns are .22LR’s.

I’ll take my S&W M&P9 2.0 9mm or my Stag Arms 5.56 carbine over any .22LR any day. I’ll take my Mossberg Shockwave or my Ruger .45ACP Lightweight Commander as well. I would also prefer one of my M&P15-22’s loaded up with 25 CCI Mini-Mag’s over being unarmed every day of the week.

Rourke

Shop Palmetto State Armory for the best deals on .22LR firearms – and anything else you can think of.

[UPDATED for 2020]
April 28, 2020
Review: Lightnin’ Grip Loader for .22LR Magazines

The .22lr is by far my favorite caliber. The reasons are simple – very inexpensive and super fun to shoot. The drawback of shooting the .22lr – especially in higher capacity semi-auto’s – is the constant loading after blowing through 15-30 rounds.

ENTER: The Lightnin’ Grip Loader

The Lightnin’ Grip Loader is a device used to rapidly load a variety of magazines with .22lr ammunition. Supported firearms include the Ruger 10/22 and S&W M&P15-22(and many more). The main device can be used with different adapters(currently 24 available) so that one loader can be used to fill more than one model of the magazine.

How Does the Lightnin’ Grip Loader Work?

After attaching the correct magazine adapter, open the top door by sliding it rearward.

Next – dump 50 or so rounds of .22lr into the loader.

Now – slide the top door on the loader closed.

At this point, the loader needs to be shaken which will cause the .22lr rounds to drop into the feed slot and align themselves. Only a few shakes are necessary and they line up quickly.

Next – the magazine is attached. At this point, the loader is tilted up to keep the rounds aligned towards the magazine.

Last – the “trigger” on the Lightnin’ Grip Loader is actuated. Every squeeze of the trigger will load one round. See video below:

While I squeezed the trigger in the video slowly to show how it works – the rounds can be loaded into the magazine extremely fast.

Bottomline:

The Lightnin’ Grip Loader is fantastic. It is rare that I come across something that provides this much value. The loader costs only $32.50 and each magazine adapter costs $13.95. Having this device increases the fun factor big time allowing more shooting – less loading.

To get more information on the loader and/or to order – click HERE.

To get more information on the adapter for your particular forearms – click HERE.

HAVE FUN!!!

Recommended

April 26, 2020
Project: Ruger 10/22 X-Hunter

The Ruger 10/22 is the most popular .22 long gun sold in the United States and for some very good reasons. The Ruger is inexpensive, accurate, extremely reliable, and highly customizable. The aftermarket support for the 10/22 is second to no other gun.

Project: Ruger 10/22 was created from the concept of building a compact but highly accurate rimfire carbine with an awesome, modern appearance. More of an assembly than a build, this project gun has little in common with the stock factory Ruger 10/22.

I present…..Project: Ruger 10/22.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

I started with a standard, run-of-the-mill Ruger 10/22. Nothing special but highly capable. This particular gun was purchased locally for $209.00.

Project Total: $209.00

Next up I settled on a Tactical Solutions 16″ fluted barrel. I chose the Tactical Solutions due to cost as well as overall reputation. I read a few reviews online that were negative, however, by far they were positive. I was not expecting a tremendous gain in accuracy with the barrel as in stock condition the 10/22 does quite well. To complete the project as envisioned the Tactical Solutions barrel fit perfectly. I paid $179.99 on sale at a local Cabela’s. No doubt better pricing can be found elsewhere.

Project Total: $388.99

Right from the start I knew I wanted the Magpul X-Hunter Stock for this project. Having seen and handled it previously it was a must have. I love the way it handles and its ergonomics. Unique with this stock is its compatibility with either the stock barrel or a standard bull barrel. Ordered from Amazon for $126.97.

Project Total: $515.96

Accuracy is the result of numerous specific conditions from cartridge, barrel, wind conditions, temperature, lubrication, trigger, and more. The new Ruger BX-Trigger drops the trigger pull down to around 2.5 pounds and making it extremely crisp. Instant accuracy improvement. Purchased at Cabela’s on sale for $59.99.

Project Total: $575.95

Next up was to install a scope mount atop the Ruger’s receiver. I went with the Tactical Solutions 15 MOA Rail. What makes this rail unique is it actually angles the scope slightly in an upwards direction thus reducing the amount of scope elevation adjustment needed for shooting longer ranges with the .22LR. May not have needed the 15 MOA raise but I have it. Purchased at Cabela’s for $29.99.

Project Total: $605.94

To maximize accuracy I installed a BSA Sweet .22 3-9 x 40mm scope. The BSA comes with different turrets depending on your rimfire ammunition. I have not utilized the turrets but understand the concept. I am pleased with the level of clarity, however, would like to have a higher level of magnification. Possible upgrade in the future. Purchased from Amazon for $69.99.

Project Total: $675.93

Lastly, an extended charging handle was purchased off eBay. I have no idea of the brand. Took a look and found something cool and bought it. Works great. A charging handle isn’t rocket science. The factory one works fine, however, I wanted a more secure grip and add to the look.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Final Results:

$675 for a Ruger 10/22 is a lot of money and with that level of funding I could have bought a variety of firearms or other supplies. This was a project I wanted to do, so I did it.

So – how accurate is it?

I have yet to test the true capability of this project gun and will update as I get more results. Close to 1″ 3 shot groups at 50 yards so far using CCI Mini-Mags. Every gun I have will shoot better than me and this is no exception. I have shot standard carbines close to 1″ groups at 50 so the increase in accuracy is minimal however it exists.

It has been 100% reliable with no jams, failures to eject, misfires – nothing. The trigger is sweet.

Shooting this gun is a pleasure. It’s highly accurate, lightweight and very compact. Handles like a dream and its ergonomics fits me extremely well.

NOTE: This was a project gun I put together a few years ago. Unfortunately “life happens” and I was forced to sell it. Once I am in a position to do so I have every intention to recreate in a very similar fashion.

Rourke

April 21, 2020
Impression of the Mossberg 715T Tactical .22 Rifle
Went shooting this past weekend and had an opportunity to take a look at his recently acquired Mossberg 715T. Modeled after the AR-15 it closely resembles an AR with a few significant differences.

Here are a few observations:
- Sights are pretty good typical rear peep front post. Adjustable.
- Trigger is spongy but not very heavy.
- Picatinny rails galore for mounting everything including the kitchen sink.
- There is a side charging handle which works fine but is not like an AR. There is a fake charging handle for cosmetic purposes only.
- Magazine release is terrible and nothing like an AR. This is a serious design flaw. Lever has to be pulled down and at the same time pull on the magazine. I was able to practice and do this one-handed but not reliably.
- I could not figure out how to take it apart for cleaning. It certainly is different than a hinged action like on an AR.
- Safety is a typical push-button style and extremely stiff. Would have preferred an AR-style.
- Magazine has a faux AR bottom with a “stick” .22LR metal portion sticking up through. Again – design flaw.
- The Mossberg 715T was 100% reliable with Federal bulk box 40-grain solid points.
- Handling was good and very similar to a typical AR including weight.
If I’m not mistaken I believe this AR-looking inexpensive .22LR is actually a Mossberg 702 Plinkster with polymer furniture attached to it.

The Mossberg 715T Tactical .22 typically sells for around $299. Would I by one? No, I wouldn’t. With the Plinkster available for $140 a more realistic and value-driven price would be $199 new. But hey – that’s why I am not a Marketing Manager for Mossberg I guess.

No – for $299 I would pick up a Ruger 10/22 every time along with a BX-25 magazine and a brick of .22LR rounds and call it a day.

My buddy who owns the Mossberg bought it off a friend used for $150. It looks to be hardly shot. Now that’s a decent deal.

Rourke
March 12, 2017