
Smith & Wesson · Pistol
Smith & Wesson Model 422
Blowback (semi-automatic) · .22 Long Rifle · introduced 1987
Also known as Model 422 Field
About the Smith & Wesson Model 422
The Smith & Wesson Model 422 is a full-size semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 LR, introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1987. The pistol features a aluminum alloy frame and a carbon steel slide, providing a durable platform designed for years of reliable service in both duty and civilian applications. With a magazine capacity of 10 rounds, this pistol offers ample firepower for defensive applications. With a 4.5-inch barrel, this pistol balances concealability with ballistic performance, providing near-optimal velocity and a practical sight radius for accurate shot placement. At 624g (22.0 oz) unloaded, this lightweight pistol is well-suited for daily concealed carry without causing fatigue over extended periods of wear. Smith & Wesson's semi-automatic pistol designs draw on over 170 years of firearms manufacturing expertise, combining proven engineering principles with modern materials and manufacturing techniques to deliver reliable, accurate handguns trusted by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters worldwide.
Smith & Wesson has been manufacturing firearms in Springfield, Massachusetts since 1852, making them one of the oldest and most respected names in the American firearms industry, with their revolvers and pistols serving in virtually every major conflict and law enforcement agency worldwide.
Smith & Wesson Model 422 specifications
General
- Type
- Pistol
- Action
- Blowback (semi-automatic)
- Firing mechanism
- Single action
- Trigger
- Single action
- Trigger pull
- 2.0 kg (4.5 lb)
- Calibres
- .22 Long Rifle
- Magazine capacity
- 10 rounds
- Magazine
- Detachable box magazine
Dimensions
- Barrel length
- 114 mm (4.5 in)
- Overall length
- 222 mm (8.7 in)
- Height
- 138 mm (5.4 in)
- Width
- 34 mm (1.3 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 0.62 kg (1.38 lb)
Barrel
- Rifling twist
- 1:16 in (406 mm)
- Rifling
- Right hand
- Grooves
- 6
Materials
- Barrel
- Carbon steel
- Receiver / frame
- Aluminum alloy
- Slide
- Carbon steel
- Stock
- Wood
- Finish
- blue
Performance
- Muzzle velocity (typical)
- 396 m/s (1299 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 204 J (150 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 25 m
History
- Introduced
- 1987
- Discontinued
- 1996
- Production status
- Discontinued
- Country of origin
- US
Features
- Mid priced rimfire
- Fixed barrel design
- Barrel low position
- Frame mounted safety
- Wood grips option
- Plastic grips option
Safety
- Frame mounted thumb safety
- Magazine disconnect
Mid-priced rimfire pistol. Unique low barrel position. Originally 12-round capacity, later reduced to 10 rounds after 1992 California magazine ban. Known for accuracy and reliability.
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