The Walther P22 is one of the most popular .22 LR handguns on the market, widely used for recreational shooting and firearms training. Its versatility, affordability, and proven performance over two decades have earned it a special place in many gun enthusiasts’ collections. This in-depth review provides a comprehensive analysis of the Walther P22 based on hands-on testing and experience.

The P22 is a pistol that both new and experienced shooters enjoy due to its ergonomics, accuracy, and smooth shooting dynamics. The goal here is to explore all aspects of this excellent .22 in detail so readers can determine if it fits their needs and budget.

Product Overview

The P22 is a blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol chambered for the ubiquitous .22 LR cartridge. Its lightweight polymer frame paired with a compact 3.42-inch barrel makes it very handy and easily maneuverable. With dimensions of only 6.3” x 4.5” x 1.1” and weighing only 17 ounces, unloaded, it’s an ideal choice for recreational shooting, training, and even concealed carry.

The P22 is widely available either online or from most major firearms retailers like Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, and local gun stores. You can typically find new-in-box Walther P22 pistols priced very reasonably between $250 to $300. Considering its array of features and proven performance, this represents fantastic value in the modern handgun market. The Walther P22 delivers practical functionality and versatility far above its modest cost.

Several variants exist, including the basic P22, the upgraded P22 Q model with enhanced controls and sights, plus new creations such as the P22 James Bond edition featuring unique aesthetics. Most retain the same reliable blowback action and ergonomic polymer frame acclaimed over 20+ years, however.

Now, let’s break down its central features and specifications...

Features and Specifications

• Caliber: .22 LR 
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 3.42 inches  
• Overall Length: 6.3 inches
• Width: 1.1 inches
• Height: 4.5 inches
• Weight: 17 ounces (with empty magazine)
• Frame: Zinc Alloy Polymer
• Grips: Integral Ergonomic Polymer
• Sights: 3-Dot Polymer 

MSRP: $249

Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the P22 incorporates some great design elements. The frame features molded ergonomic finger grooves and an integral Picatinny-style accessory rail for adding lasers or lights. 

While mostly polymer, the slide, barrel, and internal components are constructed from metal for durability. Interchangeable backstraps allow you to customize the grip size too.

The captured recoil spring and ambidextrous slide stop, magazine release, and safety make operation smooth. A loaded chamber indicator provides added peace of mind regarding the pistol’s status. The serrated slide and grip offer extra traction for cycling the action reliably.

When it comes to accuracy, Walther impresses. The adjustable rear sight and fixed front sight with contrasting dots are highly visible. This allows precise shot placement, especially in quick succession, thanks to the light double-action trigger pull.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent training pistol replicating full-sized models
• Threaded barrel allows silencer attachment  
• Lightweight and soft-shooting
• Ergonomic, customizable grip 
• Ambidextrous controls suit all shooters
• Accuracy sufficient for plinking and close-range practice
• Accessory rail to add lights/lasers
• Two 10+1 round magazines included

Cons:

• Factory open sights are basic polymer 
• More prone to fouling than centerfire pistols
• Crisp trigger feel diminishes over time
• Limited aftermarket customization options

Considering its friendly price point, the Walther P22 delivers outstanding functionality. The pros far outweigh the minor drawbacks for most shooters.

In-Depth Feature Review

Examining the Walther P22 hands-on reveals a firearm well-balanced between affordability and performance. While cheaper materials are apparent in some areas, they don’t detract from smooth operation or accuracy.

Ergonomics and Handling

The first thing you’ll notice is the excellent grip angle and contour. Molded finger grooves position your hand intuitively while the mild palm swell fills your hand. The textured areas ensure a solid grip without feeling abrasive. 

As a blowback pistol, the fixed barrel keeps the weight centered between your grip. This aids controllability, especially for new shooters. The slide has ample serrations to cycle smoothly. The generous trigger guard room accommodates a gloved finger comfortably.

Operation of the controls becomes second nature fast. Ambidextrous levers allow left or right-handed activation of the slide stop and magazine release with equal ease. The safety clicks positively into fire or safe mode. All are easy to reach without compromising your grip.

The P22 points naturally and transitions between targets smoothly. Its lightweight and mild recoil make it delightful for rapid shots or sustained practice. The ergonomics really enhance user comfort and capabilities compared to many other .22 pistols.

Reliability

Blowback actions can prove finicky, especially rimfire platforms prone to dirtier ammunition. However, during testing, the Walther P22 proved very reliable across various ammo types. As long as you use standard or high velocity loads and keep it clean, malfunctions are rare.

The captured recoil spring prevents tricky reassembly as well. Just be sure to use factory magazines only and replace them once they're worn for optimal function. With proper care, expect several thousand rounds before any major issues arise.

Accuracy

Considering its short barrel, the P22 can produce surprisingly tight groups well under 3” at 25 yards while standing. The trigger has a slightly long pull but breaks cleanly for consistent precision. The sights quickly become second nature at typical handgun ranges under 50 feet.

The Walther works perfectly as a training stand-in for full-size 9mm pistols. Basic skills like stance, grip, sight picture, and trigger control transfer directly to larger firearms. You can build muscle memory much cheaper with this pistol than with standard centerfire rounds. Shooters can easily run through over 200 rounds in one practice without getting tired or spending too much money. 

Maintenance and Reliability

Field stripping the Walther involves removing the left grip panel then pushing out a recessed takedown button. Twist and withdraw the captured recoil spring and lift out the barrel assembly. This is quicker than many other .22 pistols.

Fouling and debris can accumulate rapidly, so regular cleaning is advised, especially after a few hundred rounds. Wipe down the frame interior and apply oil. Brush the barrel bore before passing patches wet with solvent through it.

Inspect the breech face, feed ramp, and other high-contact areas. Remove any built-up carbon deposits and reapply lubricant. This simple routine keeps the P22 running smoothly.

Unique Selling Points

The P22 carved out an enduring niche based on well-designed fundamentals rather than flashy cosmetics or excess capacity. While newer .22 pistols boast higher round counts or hot-rod styling, the Walther remains a favorite for a good reason.

Its chief competition comes from the SIG Sauer P322, Glock 44, and Taurus TX22. These all offer unique strengths, too, but usually cost over $100 more. They also were not purpose-built for training analogous functionality like the P22.

One standout feature is the optional threaded barrel. This makes adding a suppressor for ultra-quiet plinking a simple upgrade via an adapter kit. The ability to practice unobtrusively with subsonic ammo makes the P22 very versatile.

The smooth double action/single action trigger also encourages developing solid shooting skills. DA pulls ready the action while SA breaks like a precision target pistol. Managing the transition between the two results in better control and accuracy.

Added touches like the last round slide lock and interchangeable grip inserts, demonstrate thoughtful design as well. Reliability and accuracy keep the Walther competitive even amongst more modern rimfire pistols. It enjoys well-deserved success for getting so much right straight out of the box.

Accessories and Upgrades

Perhaps the best attribute of the Walther P22 is practical customization even with limited aftermarket support. The integrated accessory rail enables adding tactical lights or lasers easily. Streamlight, Crimson Trace, Viridian, and LaserMax all produce quality models starting around $80.

As noted already, Walther sells a drop-in threaded barrel kit to create an integrally suppressed host pistol. Adapters allow mounting most major rimfire cans for around $200 total investment. Turning the P22 into a near-silent plinker is very straightforward.

For improved accuracy, swapping the factory open sights for higher visibility models with protective ears helps. Fiber optic or tritium night sights from $50 to $100 enhance sight acquisition and durability. AmeriGlo, Hi-Viz, TruGlo produce suitable alternatives maintaining low cost.

Upgrading magazines to proven metal OEM or aftermarket units increases longevity too. Factory polymer mags serve well initially but eventually crack or deform. Better quality replacements run $25-35 apiece. This affordable upgrade increases rigidity allowing smoother feeding.

Personal Experience and Range Performance

According to widespread P22 user reports, the pistol serves flawlessly from the first range session and wins over many new shooters. Its natural grip angle, slide serrations, and clean trigger break facilitate accurate shot placement. Although light, balance remains neutral shot after shot. Both rapid firing strings and slower precision shooting prove equally achievable.

The ergonomic frame allows firing several hundred rounds comfortably without abrasion or fatigue. Generous grip inserts suit most hand sizes well. The Walther often motivates new shooters to invest in their own firearms after discovering its enjoyable handling traits. Building essential skills through the P22 can deeply involve novices in shooting sports.

Owners praise the P22 as an affordable supplementary trainer for defensive pistols. Its operation allows reinforcing concealment draw, shooting on the move, magazine changes, and other life-saving techniques. This boosts real-world readiness at a fraction of the cost of larger caliber range sessions.

Mid to high velocity ammo works best in this blowback-style .22 LR pistol. The faster rounds create enough pressure to cycle the slide completely during firing. Subsonic ammunition might fail to push the slide all the way back after each shot. Choosing the right ammo from the start prevents most function problems you might encounter.

Basic cleaning keeps the Walther running smoothly for thousands of rounds. Many owners report years of reliable performance with simple maintenance routines. Walther's manufacturing quality shows in how well these pistols hold up over extended use. This remarkable durability explains why the P22 remains so popular among rimfire enthusiasts across the country.

Conclusion and Verdict

The Walther P22 enjoys tremendous popularity among recreational and defensive shooters alike thanks to intelligent design balancing cost savings and performance. Critical features like magazine capacity, accessory rails, and threaded barrel options rival more expensive alternatives.

Its ergonomic grip, light weight, and easily manageable recoil also make it perfect for introductory training. Smooth DA/SA trigger function rewards shooters who are gradually improving control and precision. Moreover, interchangeable backstraps ensure comfortable adaptation for smaller or larger hands.

While the cheaper construction quality is evident in some areas, the P22’s polymer lower assembly effectively withstands heavy usage. The captured dual recoil spring also enhances field stripping ease without sacrificing reliability. For plinking enjoyment or building shooting skills affordably, the proven Walther P22 delivers.

• Ergonomics: 4/5
• Accuracy: 4/5
• Reliability: 4/5
• Aesthetics: 4/5
• Customization: 3.5/5 
• Cost/Value: 5/5
• Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Considering its budget MSRP around $300 and typical retail pricing $250 or less, the Walther P22 is a phenomenal bargain. It’s comfortable, convenient, accurate, and reliable enough to fulfill defensive training and recreational shooting roles with minimal fuss.

An integrated accessory rail and widely available threaded barrel kit expand practical customization, too. Between versatile functionality and friendly affordability, the Walther P22 enjoys well-deserved status as one of the finest .22 LR pistols available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What accessories are available for the Walther P22?

Popular P22 upgrades include threaded barrel kits for suppressor mounting along with tactical flashlights and lasers easily attached to the accessory rail. Replacement magazines and enhanced metallic sights also improve functionality.

Does the Walther P22 make a good concealed carry gun?  

With dimensions under 7 inches long and just over 1 inch wide, the P22 works well for concealed carry in a holster or pocket. Its light 17-ounce weight won't drag clothing. Just consider the limitations of .22 LR terminal ballistics for personal defense.

How easy is the Walther P22 to disassemble for cleaning?   

The Walther utilizes a simple takedown lever system to remove the captured dual recoil spring and barrel assembly rapidly without tools. Full disassembly further breaks down internal parts easily. Cleaning typically takes under 5 minutes.

What self-defense ammo works best in the Walther P22?

High velocity hollow points from CCI, Federal, and other premium brands feed most reliably. However, the P22's short barrel doesn't enable expanding loads to reach optimal terminal performance. Focus instead on fast shot placement using quality plinking ammo.

How long can the Walther P22 go without cleaning or oiling?

Frequent cleaning every few hundred rounds is recommended given the rimfire platform’s tendency to foul quickly. However, the P22 can still function reliably with 1,000+ rounds between deep cleanings if you wipe the barrel and apply lube periodically.