The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 is a popular choice for both experienced shooters and those new to the AR-15 platform. This .22 LR training rifle offers a cost-effective and fun way to practice shooting drills and hone your skills without the expense of firing higher-caliber ammunition. But how does it truly perform? This comprehensive review dives deep into the M&P15-22's features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Features: A Familiar Feel
The M&P15-22 is designed to closely mimic the ergonomics and handling of the popular AR-15 platform chambered in more powerful calibers. This makes it an excellent tool for training and familiarization. The rifle features:
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Lightweight Construction: Made primarily from polymer, the M&P15-22 is surprisingly light, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions. This is a significant advantage for new shooters or those with smaller builds.
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AR-15 Style Controls: The controls, including the safety selector, magazine release, and bolt catch, are all located in the same positions as on a standard AR-15. This helps build muscle memory and promotes a smooth transition to higher-caliber AR-15s.
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Durable Construction: While primarily polymer, the critical components are made of durable materials to withstand regular use and maintain reliability.
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Adjustable Stock (Some Models): Depending on the specific model, you might find an adjustable stock allowing for a customized fit. This enhances comfort and improves shooting accuracy.
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Picatinny Rail: The top receiver features a Picatinny rail, allowing for the easy mounting of optics like red dot sights or scopes. This versatility enhances the rifle's functionality for various training scenarios.
Performance and Accuracy: A Reliable Trainer
The M&P15-22's accuracy is generally considered good for a .22 LR rifle. While not a tack-driver at long ranges, it delivers acceptable accuracy within typical training distances. The .22 LR round’s lower recoil makes it easier to control and maintain accuracy, especially for beginners. Reliability is also a strong point; most users report minimal malfunctions. However, using high-quality .22 LR ammunition is crucial for optimal performance. Cheap ammunition can sometimes lead to feeding issues.
Potential Drawbacks:
While the M&P15-22 offers many advantages, it's essential to acknowledge some potential drawbacks:
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Magazine Capacity: The magazine capacity can vary, but it's generally lower than many AR-15 magazines in higher calibers. This might necessitate more frequent reloading during training exercises.
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Recoil Impulse Difference: While the recoil is significantly less than a full-powered AR-15, it’s still noticeable. The impulse is different enough that a user shouldn't entirely assume total transferability of skills to the higher-powered counterparts.
Value and Overall Impression: A Solid Investment
The Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 provides exceptional value as a training rifle. Its affordability, combined with its accurate performance and AR-15-style controls, makes it an excellent choice for those looking to hone their shooting skills without breaking the bank. It's a fantastic way to learn the AR-15 platform's operation, practice drills, and get comfortable with the feel of the rifle without the expense of high-caliber ammunition.
Who should buy this rifle? Beginners, experienced shooters looking for a training tool, and anyone wanting an affordable, fun .22 LR rifle should strongly consider the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22.
Who might not like this rifle? Those looking for extreme long-range accuracy might be disappointed. The lower magazine capacity could also be a concern for some users.
This review reflects general user experiences and observations. Individual results may vary. Always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
