Light 22LR pistol test

[graycrait]

I tested out some fairly lightweight .22 pistols yesterday, primarily to see how the 60 grain subsonic Aguila SSS would work in them. Interestingly enough the 60 grainers ran well in all 4 pistols pictured below. The new PLY .22 by Taurus worked 100% from the first mag load of the 60 grainers, and I ended up shooting about 150 60 grain SSS through the PLY 22. The trigger reset on the PLY 22 is not as fast as the reset on a Bobcat, had two Bobcats at the test belonging to friend, who also had a PLY 22. However the PLY 22 allows second strike capability. I like the PLY 22 so much I may get another one. At 7yds and in, with those 60 grain subsonics, the PLY 22 is a real thumper of a mousegun.

Here are some of the ammo types that ran 100% reliably through the PLY 22: 60gn SSS Aguila, American Eagle 40gn LRN, Armscor Precision 40 gn LRN, Winchester Dynapoints (40gn I think), Centurian 40gn LRN, CCI of several types including Stinger, CCI bulk pack Ar15. What didn't work: Winchester 36gn JHPs in the 525 bulk pack -always had or or two failures in a mag load. Aguila 30 gn truncated cone Super Max Hper Vel failed initially but worked later - this round needs more testing.

Lastly, my earlier model Taurus died during the test. The slide split at the front. The PLY has a seemingly better made "slide cradle" under the barrel.

The pictured .22LR pistols weighed empty with magazine: PLY 22 = 11 oz; G26 AA = 13; G19 AA w/3oz brass slug in grip void = 18.8oz; S&W 2214 = 18oz.

[TNWNGR]

I wonder if Taurus will repair the PT-22 for you? Good over all article and the PLY 22 is an intresting pistol I think will have to go on my short list. I was very suprised at how well it felt in hand and how well it looked. It's nice to read that it shoot's well. Small .22LR pistol's that work correctly are a real value.

[CordovaToter]

Nice comparison. Who makes the .22LR conversion slide/barrel assemblies for the 2 Glocks? It looks like the heavier weight ammo (40+ grain) seemed on average to perform better than the lighter stuff (36- grain). Any idea why?

[Patton]

I've had many weak primer strikes with the 36gr hp Winchester bulk pack with my NAA Mini.

[graycrait]

I have no clue as to why the poorer performance with the lighter types of .22 except for bullet mass must make the slide retract all the way. Advantage Arms makes the .22 conversions I have for Glocks. I have one for the G17 also.