The .22 caliber rimfire cartridge isn’t just ammunition—it’s the undisputed champion of shooting sports, with 2.5 billion rounds produced annually. Since its debut in 1884, it has become the backbone of hunting, training, and recreation.
But the real power lies in the companies pushing its evolution. These 15 manufacturers are leading the charge, redefining the .22 caliber market with groundbreaking designs and unmatched precision.
1. Sturm, Ruger & Company
Ruger’s legendary Mark IV series and 10/22 rifle platform have become benchmarks in the industry. The company’s manufacturing facilities across Arizona, Connecticut, North Carolina, and New Hampshire produce a diverse range of .22 firearms, from the popular LCP II pistol to the precision-focused Mark IV target pistols.
Their commitment to innovation shows in their product line, with models like the American Rimfire Compact catering to younger shooters and the 10/22 platform offering endless customization possibilities.
2. Heritage Manufacturing
Heritage Manufacturing’s Georgia-based facility focuses almost exclusively on .22 caliber firearms, with revolvers like the Barkeep and Rough Rider representing a majority of their total production.
These revolvers combine classic single-action styling with modern manufacturing techniques, making them popular choices for both recreational shooting and collecting.
Their commitment to the .22 caliber platform has earned them a reputation for producing reliable, affordable firearms that capture the spirit of traditional Western revolvers.
3. Sig Sauer
Sig Sauer’s Arkansas and New Hampshire facilities produce the popular P322 model, which has quickly gained a following for its exceptional 20+1 capacity and modern features.
The company’s approach to .22 caliber firearms mirrors their centerfire designs, offering similar ergonomics and controls that make them excellent training platforms.
Despite .22 handguns representing only a small portion of their total production, Sig Sauer has demonstrated their ability to innovate in this category.
4. Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson’s diverse lineup includes the popular M&P 22 and SW22 Victory pistols, along with classic revolvers like the Model 63.
The company’s M&P15-22 rifle has become particularly notable, featuring a polymer construction that reduces weight while maintaining AR-15 style controls.
This platform has proven especially popular for training purposes, though it faced some early safety concerns that were subsequently addressed.
5. Browning Arms
Browning’s focus on quality is evident in their .22 caliber lineup. Their Buck Mark series has become synonymous with precision target shooting, while the 1911-22 offers a scaled-down version of the classic 1911 platform.
The company’s facilities show its commitment to this market segment. Their attention to detail and focus on accuracy have made them a favorite among competitive shooters and enthusiasts alike.
6. Henry Repeating Arms
Henry’s reputation for quality lever-action rifles extends to their .22 caliber offerings, with models like the H001 featuring classic American walnut stocks and versatile ammunition compatibility. Their rifles can accommodate various .22 cartridges, including 15 rounds of .22 LR, 17 rounds of .22 Long, and 21 rounds of .22 Short.
Manufacturing facilities in New Jersey and Wisconsin focus on maintaining traditional craftsmanship while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques.
Their commitment to American-made firearms and lifetime warranty support has earned them a loyal following among traditional shooting sports enthusiasts.
7. Taurus International
Taurus focuses on models like the TX22, which has gained recognition for its competition-ready features and reliable performance.
The TX22 series offers modern features like red dot compatibility and high-capacity magazines, all while maintaining an affordable price point. This combination of features and value has helped Taurus capture a significant portion of the entry-level .22 pistol market.
8. Kel-Tec CNC Industries
Kel-Tec produces innovative designs like the P17, CP33, and PLR22, which often challenge traditional firearm configurations.
Their approach to .22 caliber firearms often incorporates unique features and modern materials, appealing to shooters looking for something different from conventional designs. The high percentage of .22 caliber production shows their commitment to this market segment.
9. Glock
Glock’s entry into the .22 market has been successful, manufacturing the G44 model, which maintains the familiar Glock ergonomics and controls in a .22 caliber platform.
The G44’s design philosophy focuses on providing a training analog to their centerfire models, making it popular among law enforcement and civilian shooters alike.
10. Diamondback Firearms
Diamondback manufactures the popular Sidekick model, which has gained attention for its blend of traditional and modern features.
The company’s approach to .22 caliber firearms focuses on reliability and affordability, making them accessible to a wide range of shooters. Their production shows a significant commitment to the rimfire market.
11. Bond Arms
Bond Arms focuses on unique designs like the Honey B and Stubby models. Their Texas facility specializes in compact and derringer-style handguns, offering distinctive alternatives to traditional .22 designs.
These specialized firearms fill a unique niche in the market, appealing to collectors and those seeking compact backup weapons. Their .22 caliber offerings maintain the company’s reputation for quality and innovation.
12. CZ
CZ has established itself in the .22 market with its precision-focused 457 platform. Their attention to detail and emphasis on accuracy have made them particularly popular among competitive shooters and small-game hunters.
The company’s approach to .22 caliber firearms focuses on traditional craftsmanship combined with modern manufacturing techniques. Their rifles are known for exceptional accuracy and reliability, making them a favorite among serious rimfire enthusiasts.
13. Walther
Walther’s contribution to the .22 market includes popular models like the P22. Their designs typically feature excellent ergonomics and attention to detail that mirrors their centerfire offerings.
The company’s approach to .22 caliber firearms emphasizes quality and reliability, with features that appeal to both new and experienced shooters. Their pistols are particularly popular for training purposes due to their similar manual of arms to their larger caliber counterparts.
14. FN
FN has entered the .22 market with models like the 502, bringing their military and law enforcement expertise to the rimfire world. Their designs typically incorporate modern features and robust construction.
The company’s approach to .22 caliber firearms focuses on providing training analogs to their centerfire models, with an emphasis on reliability and durability. Their pistols often feature advanced characteristics like optics compatibility and suppressor-ready barrels.
15. Tikka
Tikka’s T1X represents their entry into the .22 market, focusing on precision and accuracy. Their rifles are known for exceptional build quality and attention to detail in manufacturing.
The company’s approach to .22 caliber firearms emphasizes accuracy and reliability, making them popular choices for both target shooting and small game hunting. Their commitment to quality control and precision manufacturing has earned them a strong reputation among serious rimfire enthusiasts.
The .22 caliber firearm market continues to evolve, with manufacturers balancing traditional designs against modern innovations. From Ruger’s industry-leading production numbers to boutique manufacturers like Bond Arms, each company brings unique strengths to this enduring caliber.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
