Most reliable .22 pistol?

i must say that i own 2 ruger mklll target plinkers in stainless 5.5 bull barrel, one hunter, and it swallow everything throwed in....very reliable.

now,some find them tough for reassembly after cleaning, once you understand how to close the latch with the needle spring in the right position, it is then done in a blink easy...
 
I have a S&W 41 - 3 mags, 1 works with anything, 1 works with most, and 1 is a tad finicky (adjusting the mag lips seemed to help). The mags aren't that hard to find, and are the same as those used in the 422/622 models (and possibly others). I've had no issues finding internals (springs, firing pin, extractor, sear, etc.) and find this a very nice pistol to shoot and maintain. It takes a lot of shooting to wear out a .22LR and mine is still going strong after 25 years of infrequent use. My HS Victor was a great piece too (reliable and accurate), but it wasn't my 'style' (and in fact, I'm considering parting with the model '41 to get something like a CZ Cadet or Walther P22).
 
I can highly recommend the S&W Model 41 based on my experience. Mine runs like clockwork with any ammo I've tried in it with the exception of Federal 525 round bulk packs. It is fairly important to keep the breech face clean for reliable ignition and cycling. The older models with the cocking indicator pin sticking out of the back of the frame are supposedly less likely to have issues than newer ones.

The Rugers have a pretty good reputation for reliability and accuracy, although they aren't as elegant as the S&W.

Connecticut High Standards are very nice pistols, but should only be used with standard velocity ammo to prevent frame cracking.
 
CZ Kadet if you want a fullsize, service looking pistol. you could even get a used cz in 9mm, or 40, and a kadet conversion kit for it for about 1000 bucks. I had one and it was as accurate as any model 41, or ruger and the slide is similar to a model 41 so it functions flawlessly. It has adjustable sights, and easier to clean than any other .22 out there. It is the only gun i actually regret selling because prices have gone way up.
 
My ruger 22/45 Mark III has had 2 jams in the last ~4000 shots. The only reliability tweak was about 5 mins work on the mags with a dremel.
 
Colt Challenger (just like the woodsman): great trigger, light, great grip, never had a problem with it. Paid $250 for it in Ex+ condition.

S&W 41: best trigger I've ever felt, most accurate pistol I've ever owned, great grip, easiest field stripping ever, never had a problem with it. Paid $800 for it in mint condition, 2 mags and original box.

Ruger Mark II Target Heavy Barrel: really good trigger, decent accuracy, eats anything I feed it, never had a problem with it. Paid $300 in Ex+ condition

My dad has a Browning that jams all the time. I once had Ruger Hunter (stainless, fluted barrel) that I regret selling. I met a guy at the range with the same one and a scope on it and he was hitting 4" targets at 75 yards.

If I could keep just one it would be the 41. On a budget and first time buying I'd go for the Ruger. You don't need to worry about High Velocity ammo in it and it's built like tank. The mark III you can put a scope on if you want to got that route in the future.

I have a 422 on the way. Can't wait to try it out.
 
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