
Consumer demand for handguns, particularly .22 caliber pistols and revolvers, has seen a sharp increase in the United States, with American gunmakers producing over 21.4 million pistols and revolvers from 2020 to 2022.

This surge has cemented handguns as the most popular firearm type in the country, consistently outpacing the combined sales of rifles and shotguns for the last seven years.

The .22 Long Rifle cartridge, known for its versatility, affordability, and low recoil, remains a bestseller in the American market. It appeals to a wide range of shooters, from novices and youth to seasoned sportsmen and women who utilize .22 caliber firearms for various purposes including hunting, target shooting, and plinking.

Recent ATF data reveals that .22 caliber handguns accounted for nearly 18% of all U.S. handgun production in 2022, with over 1.2 million units manufactured.

The industry’s top 21 companies were responsible for more than 98% of this production, offering a diverse range of models catering to different preferences, from the Henry Repeating Arms Company’s Mare’s Leg to the Sig Sauer P322.

This booming interest in .22 caliber handguns is not only a testament to their practicality but has also significantly contributed to the U.S. arms and ammunition industry’s economic impact, generating over $90 billion and providing employment to more than 384,000 Americans in 2023, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

The .22LR remains the ideal cartridge for a myriad of shooting activities, barring self-defense or hunting larger game. As enthusiasts debate the best .22LR pistols on the market, notable models such as the Ruger Mark IV, Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory, and Browning Buck Mark continue to garner praise for their performance and features.

The emergence of relative newcomers like the Sig Sauer P322 has added to the diversity of the market, offering 20-round capacity and ergonomic designs at competitive price points.

The popularity of .22 caliber handguns is complemented by the affordability and enjoyment they offer. While no firearm is completely immune to issues like feed failures, the quality of construction and reliability of modern .22LR handguns make them a go-to choice for recreational shooting and, in certain cases, personal defense.

Manufacturers have responded to the evolving market with a range of .22 pistol configurations, including semi-automatics and revolvers, designed to meet various practical and recreational needs.

Models like the Walther PPK/s 22 and Taurus TX22 Compact stand out as compact choices for everyday carry, while the Ruger Mark IV 22/45 and Smith & Wesson SW-22 Victory are lauded for their precision and adaptability for attachments such as red dot sights.

Amidst the competitive landscape of gunmakers, Hi-Point Firearms has carved out a niche for producing reliable and affordable firearms.

Tom Deeb, the man behind Hi-Point, has consistently focused on producing “blue-collar” guns that offer quality without the hefty price tag. His dedication to simplicity and reliability, coupled with a lifetime warranty, has resonated with a significant segment of the market.

As Deeb plans his retirement, Hi-Point continues to rank among the top firearm manufacturers in the U.S., maintaining its commitment to providing good guns at an economical price.

In conclusion, the steady rise in popularity of .22 caliber handguns reflects their indispensable role in the American shooting culture. Whether for tactical, self-defense, or recreational use, .22LR pistols and revolvers offer versatility and enjoyment to shooters of all levels, driving demand and innovation within the firearm industry.
Relevant articles:
– The Companies Behind the Best Selling, American-Made .22 Handguns, 24/7 Wall St.
– Best .22LR Pistols, Target Barn
– Best .22 Pistols of 2024, Outdoor Life
– Hi-Point Firearms And The Man Behind Them, American Rifleman