Smith & Wesson 22S
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · Discontinued · 1997
Also known as: Model 22S, 22S-1, Model 22 S
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 22S is the stainless steel variant of the 22A target pistol, featuring a stainless steel slide and barrel with satin stainless finish instead of blued carbon steel. Produced from 1997 to 2017, the 22S shares all specifications and features with the 22A including the aluminum alloy frame, integrated Weaver-style rail machined into the top of the slide for optics mounting, Patridge-type adjustable target sights, frame-mounted ambidextrous magazine release, and tool-less takedown capability. Available in multiple barrel lengths-4 inches, 5.5 inches (standard and bull configurations), and 7 inches (bull)-the most common variant featured a 5.5-inch barrel weighing approximately 34.4 ounces. The stainless steel construction offered enhanced corrosion resistance for shooters in humid or coastal environments while maintaining the same accuracy potential and ergonomics as the blued 22A. The target version featured a 5.5-inch bull barrel with hi-viz orange dot front sight (versus green on the 22A) and Dymondwood grips. Like its blued counterpart, the 22S was designed as an affordable entry into the rimfire target pistol market, typically retailing slightly higher than the 22A due to the stainless steel construction. Both models were eventually replaced by the SW22 Victory series in 2016-2017, which offered improved trigger quality, better ergonomics, and enhanced accuracy.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 975 g (34.4 oz) |
| Overall Length | 241 mm (9.49") |
| Barrel Length | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Width | 38 mm (1.50") |
| Sight Radius | 190 mm (7.48") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 22 N (4.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 330 m/s (1083 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 141 J (104 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1200 m (1312 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
Calibers
- .22 Long Rifle · primary — also known as .22 LR, 5.6x15mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Thumb Safety
- Features: Aluminum Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Construction, Integrated Weaver Rail, Adjustable Rear Sight, Patridge Front Sight, Target Grips, Hammer Fired, Tool Less Takedown, Ambidextrous Magazine Release
Base model
Production
Production years: 1997-2017
Stainless variant of 22A; replaced by SW22 Victory series in 2016-2017
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 2017
Notes
The only difference between the 22A and 22S is the material and finish-the 22S features stainless steel slide and barrel with satin stainless finish while the 22A has blued carbon steel construction. The 22S target variant came with an orange dot front sight while the 22A target version featured a green dot. Both models shared the same aluminum alloy frame, integrated Weaver rail, and mechanical operation. The stainless variant typically commanded a $50-75 premium over the blued 22A. Available barrel configurations included 4-inch (discontinued in 2012), 5.5-inch standard, 5.5-inch bull, and 7-inch bull. The integrated Weaver-style rail eliminated the need for aftermarket scope mounts, making it popular among budget-conscious shooters who wanted to experiment with optics. Despite mixed reviews regarding trigger quality and reliability with certain ammunition types, both the 22A and 22S developed loyal followings due to their accuracy potential, value proposition, and ease of use.
Background
The 22S's stainless steel construction made it a favorite among shooters in humid coastal regions where blued steel would rapidly corrode. Its integrated Weaver rail was particularly appreciated by competitive Steel Challenge shooters who wanted an affordable optics-ready platform for rimfire divisions without investing in high-end target pistols.