7 Things To Know About Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22

The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is a popular semi-automatic rifle designed for hunting, target shooting, and recreational purposes. As a variant of the AR-15 platform, it has gained a reputation for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. If you're considering purchasing or already own an M&P 15-22, here are 7 things you should know about this versatile firearm.

History and Development

The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 was first introduced in 2009 as a response to the growing demand for a reliable and affordable.22 LR rifle. Built on the AR-15 platform, the M&P 15-22 was designed to provide a fun and economical way for shooters to enjoy the popular AR-style rifle without the high cost of centerfire ammunition. Since its release, the M&P 15-22 has become a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and recreational enthusiasts.

Key Features and Specifications

Here are some key features and specifications of the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22:

Caliber:.22 Long Rifle (LR)
Barrel Length: 16 inches (40.6 cm)
Overall Length: 30.5 inches (77.4 cm)
Weight: 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg)
Action: Semi-automatic, blowback-operated
Magazine Capacity: 25 rounds
Sights: Adjustable sights, Picatinny rail for optics
Stock: Collapsible M4-style stock

Benefits of the M&P 15-22

The M&P 15-22 offers several benefits to shooters, including:

Affordable ammunition:.22 LR ammunition is significantly cheaper than centerfire ammunition, making it an excellent choice for high-volume shooting.
Low recoil: The.22 LR cartridge produces minimal recoil, making it an ideal choice for new shooters, women, and children.
Versatility: The M&P 15-22 can be used for hunting small game, target shooting, and recreational purposes.

Shooting and Handling

The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is known for its excellent shooting and handling characteristics. Here are a few things to expect:

Accuracy: The M&P 15-22 is capable of producing accurate groups at distances up to 100 yards.
Reliability: The rifle features a reliable blowback-operated action that ensures consistent performance.
Ergonomics: The M&P 15-22 features a comfortable, ergonomic design that makes it easy to handle and shoot.

Accessories and Upgrades

The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is highly customizable, with a wide range of accessories and upgrades available. Some popular options include:

Optics: Red dot sights, scopes, and magnifiers can be easily mounted on the Picatinny rail.
Handguards: Interchangeable handguards allow shooters to customize the rifle's appearance and functionality.
Triggers: Aftermarket triggers can be installed to improve the rifle's trigger pull.

Comparison to Other.22 LR Rifles

The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 competes with other popular.22 LR rifles, including:

Ruger 10/22: A classic, reliable rifle with a proven track record.
Marlin Model 60: A lever-action rifle with a tubular magazine.
Mossberg 702: A semi-automatic rifle with a detachable magazine.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 compared to other.22 LR rifles:

Advantages:

Ergonomic design
Reliable blowback-operated action
Highly customizable
Affordable price point

Disadvantages:

Limited magazine capacity
Not suitable for hunting larger game

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is a versatile, reliable, and affordable.22 LR rifle that's perfect for hunting, target shooting, and recreational purposes. With its ergonomic design, reliable action, and customizable features, it's an excellent choice for shooters of all skill levels.

We hope you've found this article informative and helpful. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is definitely worth considering.