Plinker/Range .22 pistol recommendations, short list

[eatmoredonuts]

Oh boy, another one of these threads....yes, yes I've searched

After being away from .22's for a while, I've got the bug again and I'm looking at buying a .22 pistol (semi auto) for general plinkin'/target duty.

Recently, I've shot both a Ruger .22 wheel gun a recent model Buckmark and was pretty suprised how the Buckmark performed. Seems like an OK deal for $450-550 depending on the model.

But for quite a bit more, there are some other really nice options, but are they worth it? The LGS has a Beretta Cheetah .22, Beretta Target 87, and pretty much all the Buckmarks, which are about half of what they want for the Berettas (all new). Also, if I am patient, I can wait for a decent used S&W Model 41 on Calguns or Gunbroker to show up - I'd expect to pay close to what the Berettas go for.

Are the pricer .22's just that much better than the Buckmarks?

(P.S. Not interested in a Mark II/III or 22/45)

[rattlesnake_nm]

I'm a big fan of the ruger mki, II and iiis. But since you've ruled them out I like the buck mark.

[Rosebud22]

For plinkin'/target duty Can not go wrong with the Buckmark. I mounted a Reddot on it (easy to do with aftermarket rail) and it is scary accurate out to
50yds. Ruger mark II would also be a good choice, but not the "take away my rights" hand gun roster list anymore.

[Garv]

Buckmark is nice, if you get a chance to try a 41 you should.

[67Cuda]

If you got the money, get what you want.

[drno4]

I'm a big fan of the ruger mki, II and iiis. But since you've ruled them out I like the buck mark.

^^^ Agreed.

[gbran]

Luv my Buckmark. This is an 5 1/2 inch model w/ Millett red dot.

[Pardini]

Hammerli 208s

[Mutant]

Model 41. I have had mine for decades and am still pleased I bought it. If you have been away a while. maybe a starter (Buckmark) to see if the desire sticks. If you already know, go 41 - amortize the cost over the rest of your life.

[pennys dad]

Buckmarks are pretty hard to beat, spending money on the more expensive stuff is ok if you want it. I have used them for years and we use them for Women On Target training and the run and accuracy is awsome.

[DRM6000]

Never shot a Buckmark, but I bought one today. I'll find out how it shoots soon.

[j1133s]

...

Are the pricer .22's just that much better than the Buckmarks?

(P.S. Not interested in a Mark II/III or 22/45)

Why not interested in the Rugers? Just curious.

I have owned a Buckmark; it was just an ok pistol.
An annoyance is that it needs a hex tool to field strip.

But one thing I disliked about the gun is that the rear sight can potentially change position relative to barrel with each field strip / cleaning. This is can lead to many accuracy problems.

I don't recommend this gun.

[steel30]

Any thought on an older High Standard Trophy or similar? Love mine...

[Whiskey_Tango]

Browning 1911-22 is pretty damn fun to plink with.

[beerman]

short answer is YES the 41s ARE that much better....sorry Ruger fanboys,but after buying my 41,I sold both of my RugerMKIIs and bought another 41.