The .22 LR rifle has long been a staple in the firearm world, cherished for its affordability, low recoil, and versatility. Among the many options available, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport stands out as a top contender, especially for those looking to enjoy the AR-15 experience without the associated costs and recoil of larger calibers. But what makes this rifle such a popular choice? Letโs dive into an in-depth review to find out.
Design and Build Quality
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is designed to closely mimic the look and feel of an AR-15, making it an excellent choice for those who want to train with a platform similar to their primary rifle. However, despite its appearance, the 15-22 is not just a scaled-down AR-15. Itโs a purpose-built .22 LR rifle that offers the ergonomics and functionality of an AR-15 while being tailored specifically for the .22 LR cartridge.
One of the most impressive aspects of the M&P 15-22 Sport is its build quality. The rifle features a high-strength polymer upper and lower receiver, which not only reduces the overall weight to a mere 4.8 pounds but also ensures durability and longevity. This lightweight design makes the 15-22 Sport highly maneuverable and easy to handle, whether youโre shooting from a bench or moving through a tactical course.
The rifleโs fit and finish are excellent, with no noticeable wobble between the upper and lower receiversโa common issue in less expensive AR-style rifles. The M&P 15-22 Sport is available in various configurations, but all models share the same attention to detail and solid construction.
Performance and Accuracy
When it comes to performance, the M&P 15-22 Sport shines. Chambered in .22 LR, this rifle is incredibly fun to shoot, offering virtually no recoil and minimal noise. This makes it an ideal choice for new shooters, younger shooters, or anyone looking to enjoy a day at the range without the fatigue associated with larger calibers.
The accuracy of the M&P 15-22 Sport is more than sufficient for its intended purposes. While itโs not designed to be a match-grade precision rifle, itโs more than capable of producing tight groups at typical .22 LR distances (25-50 yards). The 16.5-inch barrel is threaded and comes equipped with a standard A2-style flash suppressor, which can be easily replaced with a suppressor or other muzzle device if desired.
The rifleโs accuracy is further enhanced by its crisp, single-stage trigger. While not a match trigger, it breaks cleanly and consistently, making it easy to stay on target during rapid-fire strings. The M&P 15-22 Sport also features a 6-position adjustable stock, allowing for a customizable length of pull that accommodates shooters of all sizes.
One of the standout features of the M&P 15-22 Sport is its compatibility with standard AR-15 accessories. The rifle comes equipped with a full-length Picatinny rail on the upper receiver, allowing for the easy mounting of optics, sights, and other accessories. The handguard also features M-LOK slots, offering additional attachment points for lights, lasers, or grips. This modularity makes the M&P 15-22 Sport a versatile platform that can be tailored to fit any shooterโs needs.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability is crucial in any firearm, and the M&P 15-22 Sport does not disappoint. During extensive testing, the rifle proved to be exceptionally reliable, with very few malfunctions. When using high-quality ammunition, the rifle ran flawlessly, with consistent feeding and ejection. Even with lower-quality bulk ammunition, the M&P 15-22 Sport performed admirably, though like all .22 LR rifles, it can be more prone to malfunctions when using dirty or underpowered ammo.
Maintenance of the M&P 15-22 Sport is straightforward, thanks to its AR-15-style design. The rifle can be field-stripped in a manner identical to that of a standard AR-15, making it easy to clean and maintain. The polymer construction also makes the rifle more resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring it will stand up to years of use.
One thing to note is that the M&P 15-22 Sport uses proprietary magazines, rather than standard AR-15 magazines. These 25-round magazines are well-made and feed reliably, but they are not interchangeable with other AR-15 platforms. However, additional magazines are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Practical Applications
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is a versatile rifle that excels in a variety of roles. For those looking to train with an AR-15-style platform without the cost of centerfire ammunition, the 15-22 Sport is an excellent choice. It offers the same manual of arms and ergonomics as a standard AR-15, allowing shooters to practice their skills without breaking the bank.
Beyond training, the M&P 15-22 Sport is also a fantastic plinking rifle. Its low recoil and affordable ammunition make it perfect for a day of casual shooting, whether youโre knocking down steel targets, shooting paper, or just enjoying some friendly competition with friends and family.
The rifle is also well-suited for small game hunting and pest control. The .22 LR cartridge is more than capable of taking down small game, and the M&P 15-22 Sportโs accuracy and reliability make it a great choice for this purpose.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for AR Enthusiasts and .22 LR Fans Alike
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is an outstanding firearm that delivers on all fronts. It combines the look and feel of an AR-15 with the affordability and fun factor of the .22 LR cartridge, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of shooters. Whether youโre a seasoned AR-15 enthusiast looking for a cost-effective training tool, a new shooter looking for an easy-to-handle rifle, or simply someone who enjoys the versatility of the .22 LR, the M&P 15-22 Sport is a rifle that should be on your radar.
With its high-quality construction, reliable performance, and modular design, the M&P 15-22 Sport offers exceptional value at a reasonable price point. Itโs a rifle that can grow with you as a shooter, adapting to your needs and providing countless hours of shooting enjoyment. If youโre in the market for a .22 LR rifle, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport is a top-tier option thatโs hard to beat.
