A new .22 pistol costs between $200 and $600 on average, with the average retail model landing around $400 to $450. Budget rimfire handguns start as low as $180, while high-end competition or target-grade pistols reach $1,000 to $2,000+.
Price Breakdown by Category
- Budget & Entry-Level ($180 to $300): Basic plinking revolvers and light polymer semi-autos. Examples include the Heritage Rough Rider revolver ($180 to $210) and the Kel-Tec P17 ($200 to $240).
- Mid-Range Standard ($300 to $500): The most popular class for general training, range days, and plinking. Models include the Taurus TX22 ($300 to $350), Glock 44 ($360 to $400), Walther P22 ($320 to $350), and SIG Sauer P322 ($400 to $430).
- Premium Target & Precision ($500 to $900): Guns built with heavier steel frames, upgraded single-action triggers, and higher intrinsic accuracy. Examples include the Ruger Mark IV ($550 to $750) and Browning Buck Mark ($450 to $700).
- Match & Competition ($1,000+):Tournament-grade target handguns like custom-built Ruger race guns ($1,200+) or the Smith & Wesson Model 41 ($1,800 to $2,100+).
Key Factors Affecting the Cost
- Used vs. New: Used .22 pistols typically sell for $250 to $370, offering savings of 20% to 30% off brand-new retail pricing.
- Optics & Threaded Barrels:Models featuring factory red-dot optic plates or threaded barrels for suppressors add about $50 to $150 to the base price.
- Extra Expenses: Factor in local dealer transfer fees or background checks ($25 to $50) alongside ammunition costs, though .22 LR remains the cheapest handgun caliber available at roughly $0.06 to $0.10 per round.