Smith & Wesson 22A1-Evaluation

Pistol: 22A1 with 5.5" barrel and 7" barrel.

Positives: Accurate and precise with standard velocity ammunition up to 25 yards (the longest I've shot). Feeds ammunition without problems. Fires and ejects without problems. The trigger is reasonably crisp and good. Easy field strip and reassembly. Rail for scopes. I can shoot 1" groups at 15 yards on a good day (two hand hold, unsupported.) S&W lifetime warranty and service is excellent.

Negatives: The only upgrades available are grips and barrels. No S&W or aftermarket upgrade parts. One problem with a broken firing pin. Fixed at no cost by S&W. Next time I'll get the parts and fix it myself. Slots on the weaver rail may not be adequate for all scope mounts.

Overall: The positives outweigh the the negatives by an order of magniture. The pistol is very accurate, reliable, easy to clean. For the cost, one of the better buys on the market. Great first pistol or long term pistol for folks who don't want to tinker.