I’m looking for the best .22 pistol for long-term prepping use, ideally something I can depend on in a collapse situation. Not trying to start a caliber war; I already own a 9mm, but I want a .22 for specific reasons:
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Ammo is cheap and easy to stockpile. I can afford to stack thousands of rounds without going broke.
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Low recoil. Easy to train with, teach others, and shoot all day without fatigue.
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Quieter than centerfire options (especially useful if using subsonics or suppressed).
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Good for small game or deterrence without overkill.
This would be more of a utility pistol: light defense, hunting small game, barter potential, and backup use. I’d like something reliable that can run dirty, doesn’t need constant cleaning, and ideally has a decent mag capacity.
Should I go with a semi-auto like the Ruger Mark IV, SR22, Taurus TX22, or stick to something ultra-reliable like a revolver (Ruger LCR-22 or Taurus 942)? Budget matters, but I’ll spend more if the reliability is worth it.
What do you guys trust in a long-term grid-down scenario?
that what I was thinking, revolver can pretty much be used forever, and .22 ammo is way cheap and easy to stock up on. Last time I went to gunshop here in my city, the guys obviously were trying to talk me into 9mm, and bigger guns. They def weren’t taking me seriously for wanting a .22 pistol. But I already have a 9mm, now I want a .22 pistol. lol So I’ll probably order one online, have it delivered to shop then pic up.
People seem to downplay them, but even back in the day, a lot of mob kills were done with .22 pistols. It can still get the job done when needed. I don’t plan on killing anyone obviously, but the inexpensive ammo and reliablity of a good revolver appeals to me
I’m no gun nut, but a 22 is a plinking weapon. It’s not versatile. It’s not good for a fight because even if you inflict a fatal defensive wound your attacker will still be a threat for minutes. Alot can happen in minutes.
True, but my 9mm would be the main personal protection gun