.22 pistols can be a great training tool or plinking option—when they actually work. But not all .22s are created equal. Some are known for constant jams, cheap parts, or just plain bad design. Whether you’re new to shooting or just looking for a backyard fun gun, these are the ones you’ll want to steer clear of before they cause more headaches than they’re worth.
Jennings J-22
This little pistol has been around for decades, but reliability was never its strong suit. The Jennings J-22 is known for constant misfeeds, light primer strikes, and slides that wear out far too quickly.
It’s often found in pawn shops and gun shows for cheap, but there’s a reason. Most shooters find it more frustrating than fun. Even with regular cleaning, it struggles to cycle properly, especially with bulk ammo.
Lorcin L22
The Lorcin L22 looks like a compact, affordable option, but the quality just isn’t there. It’s made with pot metal parts and has a terrible track record when it comes to function and durability.
It’s also been flagged for safety issues, including accidental discharges from worn components. You might save a few bucks upfront, but this one’s not worth the trouble it brings to the range.
Raven MP-25 (.25 ACP, but often confused with .22s)
While not a true .22, the Raven MP-25 gets lumped in with budget pistols people assume are .22s. It suffers from similar issues—cheap parts, constant jamming, and sketchy build quality.
It’s another one that shows up in bargain bins and online auctions, but even for basic plinking, it’s a gamble. You’re better off putting that money toward something that actually works when you pull the trigger.
Jimenez JA-22
This pistol is basically a continuation of the Jennings J-22 under a different name, and unfortunately, the problems stuck around. It’s prone to stovepipes, failure to eject, and poor accuracy.
A lot of folks buy these as first guns or stash guns, but most regret it. Even light use can wear them out, and customer service—if you can find it—isn’t much help.
Heritage Barkeep .22 Revolver (with fixed sights)
The Heritage Barkeep looks cool at first glance, but the short barrel and fixed sights make it more of a novelty than a useful shooter. Accuracy is hit-or-miss, especially past a few yards.
It’s marketed as a fun cowboy-style plinker, but most folks end up frustrated with the lack of precision. For just a bit more, you can grab a rough rider with adjustable sights and have a much better time.
American Tactical Imports GSG Firefly
The Firefly is a clone of the old Sig Mosquito, and unfortunately, it inherited all the same issues. It’s picky about ammo, especially bulk .22, and requires frequent cleaning just to stay functional.
Some shooters have luck with high-velocity rounds, but even then, reliability isn’t great. If you’re expecting consistent performance from a .22 pistol, there are better choices out there for the same money.
Walther P22 (Early Models)
The Walther P22 gets points for comfort and ergonomics, but early models were notorious for jamming. The slide design and feed ramp just didn’t play well with common .22 ammo.
Some of the newer versions have improved, but if you come across an older used one, think twice. Unless you’re willing to tinker and feed it only premium rounds, it can be a real letdown.
Phoenix Arms HP22A
At first glance, the HP22A looks like a decent deal for the price. But spend a little time with it, and you’ll start running into issues. It’s notoriously picky with ammo, and the magazine disconnect safety adds unnecessary complications.
The safety system is clunky, and the gun has more levers than it needs. Many owners say it’s more frustrating than fun, especially if you’re new to .22s and just want something that runs.
Sig Sauer Mosquito
The Mosquito had potential, but it fell short in all the wrong places. It’s bulky for a .22, but that doesn’t mean it’s tough. It’s ammo-sensitive and known for frequent failures to feed or eject.
Sig eventually dropped it from their lineup, and that should tell you something. Unless you’re into troubleshooting and experimenting with different ammo brands, this one is best left alone.
Armi Tanfoglio TA76
The Armi Tanfoglio TA76 is a cheap .22 single-action revolver that’s floated around the used market for years. It was made in Italy and imported by various companies, but quality control was hit or miss—mostly miss.
The action feels rough, and timing can be inconsistent. Some users report issues with the cylinder not locking up properly. It might look like a fun plinker, but the build quality and reliability just don’t hold up over time.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
