My definitive 10,000 round review of the M&P 15-22, S&W’s iconic 22LR calibre AR-15 semi-auto rifle, having fired over 10k bullets through one of these iconic firearms.

The M&P 15-22 rifle series from Smith & Wesson is an AR-15 pattern carbine in .22LR caliber. An exceptionally light-weight, usable, reliable and maintainable AR, the 15-22 is very arguably the best semi-auto .22LR available today.

This rifle has imperceptible recoil. Let’s call it zero recoil. With a moderator, it is almost completely silent. By silent, I mean it’s as quiet as a PCP air rifle, for instance a rabbit 20 meters away will usually carry on eating. It’ll dependably put 25+ bullets down range as fast you can pull the trigger. The 15-22 is as quiet as a firearm gets, and about as light as a rifle it can be. The brand “M&P” stands for “Military & Police” (introduced by S&W in 1899) but the 15-22 is an excellent general purpose weapon platform building on the success of the legendary M&P 15 centrefire rifle.

I acquired the latest M&P15-22 MOE SL model years ago soon after it was launched, featuring Magpul furniture, and after many years of use now, this is undoubtedly one of the all-time favourite guns I’ve ever owned, perfectly completed by adding my Wildcat Panther moderator. After dark I switch to my XP50 (overpowered) or XQ50 (appropriate) scope on QD mounts — replacing my trusty glass day scope the Hawke Vantage 30 WA SF IR – 4-16×50 SF Rimfire 22LR Subsonic 16x. You cannot beat this loadout for stealthy plinking.

  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
    Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – Matte Black [SKU 10213] (semi-auto 22LR AR-15 pattern rifle)
  • M&P15-22 - hare - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)
    M&P15-22 – hare – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • M&P15-22 - rabbit - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
    M&P15-22 – rabbit – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15
  • v
    M&P15-22 – hare – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)
  • M&P15-22 - hare - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)
    M&P15-22 – hare – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)
  • M&P15-22 - hare - pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)
    M&P15-22 – hare – pest-control with a semi-auto 22LR AR-15 (rabbits)

I’d generally recommend the MOE model, primarily because it’s inevitibly more reliable than the competition-grade alternative, the Performance Center. However, prospective buyers should also consider the PC model, offering match-grade chamber, barrel and two-stage trigger. The higher cost of this PC version, and lower tolerance to different types of ammo (due to the tighter chamber), buys you potentially tighter shot groups. Precision (consistency of shot placement) being one of a common criticisms with all semi-auto .22 rifles in general, so it’s nice to have an option to mitigate this. When you insert a 25-round mag filled with a different brand of ammo, it’s pleasing when it “just works” and the gun cycles flawlessly until the bolt locks open when the mag is empty.

I’m fortunate that, using the OEM barrel on the gun I bought, I can drill lead into the same hole at 50m if I hold the rifle optimally. While using this type of rifle, barrel movement is possible, which can demonstrably affect the point of impact, so keep that in mind while training and mastering the 15-22. Furthermore, the 15-22 does not have a fully free-floating barrel out of the box. There’s a removable plastic spacer at the end of the factory handguard which loosely connects the handguard and barrel, some shooters remove that spacer which can later be clipped back in. Some users switch out the factory handguard for a specialized (the standard factory upper uses a proprietary thread) aftermarket free-float converter kit, replacing the barrel nut and handguard. As with any rifle, precision is improved by developing a consistent hold. Avoid applying undue pressure to the barrel or handguard, and be mindful of this when something touches either barrel or handguard — including a bipod, tripod (I often use a Primos Trigger Stick Gen3), etc. As always, a user will get a feel for a hold that works best for them and the rifle. Affix your scope without the mount bridging the joint where handguard meets receiver.

Manufacturer and third-party parts, upgrades and aftermarket support are very widely available for this tremendously popular and long-established S&W gun. Whether for training and plinking or pest-control, you won’t find a more fun gun to use than this. By choosing the 15-22 you’re writing yourself into the fabric of a long and legendary story of quality and reputation, that began in 1852 when Horace and Daniel founded Smith & Wesson, one of America’s most long-running and iconic firearm brands.

I’ve plinked thousands of rounds on targets and harvested hundreds of rabbits with my 15-22, still unmodified from the factory, using probably every type of ammo available during that time, from clean CCI subsonic HP, to segmented rounds to mitigate ricochet, to Eley, to ammo designed for optimal cycling of a suppressed AR from CCI and Geco and Norma, I’ve even used some ammo brands with greasy lubricants (not recommended) that could potentially gum-up a semi-auto action but without any problems so far, and too many others to list. Anecdotally, 15-22 users widely report firing over 10k rounds with no problems, or in some cases the only failure being the extractor hook (e.g. in one case failing after ~5k rounds. (Although I do link to to popular low-cost extractor kit replacements/upgrades in my accessories list below, be aware that some good third-party extractor kits and complete bolt kits do also include these parts and more.) The 15-22 is often recommended for cheap lightweight training on the AR-15 platform, and makes an ideal entry level AR for younger shooters, but, make no mistake, 22LR is a serious calibre and this is a serious gun effective for key practical usecases.

Having searched online for issues reported by 15-22 users, I did find a gas-powered M&P15 centrefire user (NOT the 15-22) who reported firing over 10k rounds and recalling only 1 bullet failing out of all those, and in that example worn gas rings for the bolt needed replacing after 6k to 7k rounds, but no other parts had failed after over 10k rounds and that gun is still producing consistent groups today. However, the 15-22 is operated by a simple blowback system, it is not gas-powered, so there are no gas rings and the bolt is a solid piece of metal, so no wonder these beasts last forever. (As with any M&P15-22 component, a replacement bolt part is widely available, and are many excellent disassembly/assembly guides, diagrams and specific bolt assembly info, etc, available online.)

Even if you never lube your 15-22, or even never clean it, it will probably still last a lifetime. Occasionally cleaning an AR-15 correctly can help it to cycle consistently. Many users proudly boast that they have never cleaned the barrel of theirs. I would advise periodic cleaning of your 15-22 mechanism and chamber. Some users just wait until something stops working and then deal with it. Treating your 15-22 with a microscopic pinprick of good lube (e.g. CLP or Slip 2000 EWL from a needle type dispenser) applied only to very extremely spots could potentially help to preserve a consistent cycle, although some wear can potentially be beneficial. I would advise not risking any lube in a 15-22, unless you’re trying to solve a problem. The fit between bolt and upper receiver on a 15-22 is sufficiently loose that lubricant is not required, and any lube there would collect dirt. The main site on the 15-22 that might benefit from a microscopic pinprick of lube is the extractor pivot, which obviously must move during extraction and thus also contributes frictional resistance during a cycle. A microscopic pinprick of lube in the rail slots (the slots in the bolt) is sufficient lubrication for the rails. The “rule of thumb” is that, if you can see the lube, you used too much. Be sure to wipe clean any excess lube with a lint-free cloth, cognisant that a few atoms of residue will suffice and even then only in the extremely specific spots I’ve specified! (Although on a centrefire AR you would lube only the specific parts of the BCG subject to friction/wear, do not lube a 15-22 this way. Do not apply grease or oil to the bolt or rails of a 15-22.) I emphasise that no more than an absolutely minimal trace of lube should be needed in a 15-22, indeed it might be more reliable running it dry (as many folks do) rather than with an excess that might retain dirt and clog the mechanism. 22LR bullets have a coating to help protect the barrel, which can act as an uninvited lubricant and contribute to fouling of the mechanism, especially greasy/oily/wax coatings. E.g. CCI’s standard ammo uses a traditional wax coating, whereas their “its “Clean” ammo line uses polymer that greatly reduces fouling. But the blowback-op system of the 15-22 is so resilient it is not easily compromised by fouling. For optimal results, choose your ammo thoughtfully and consider periodically switching ammo types. I personally use mainly standard CCI subs and segmented and have zero complaints.

The 15-22 is often compared with the CZ Scorpion in 22LR, naturally. Both are excellent rifles. For me, they are comparable, but overall the 15-22 wins. With its BCG and AR internals, the 15-22 has even less recoil (or blowback momentum) than the Scorp. I also think you’ll find the 15-22 slightly more reliable, albeit it experiences can vary depending on the quirks of the exact serial-number you happen to take home from the dealer. Not all barrels or chambers or any part is really identical to the atom, so there is always some element of luck.

The 15-22 competes with the comparable Tippmann Arms M4-22 which emerged 9 years later (2018) and was probably developed as a “me too” strategy following the conspicuous success and popularity of the “OG” 15-22. Contrasting with the M4-22, the 15-22 is significantly lighter. The 15-22 has accumulated a much more comprehensive selection of aftermarket parts and customisations even just by virtue of its earlier launch date (2009). In considering all the reviews I’ve read, arguably the 15-22 prints tighter groups (especially the Performance model) and, anecdotally, the 15-22 is more reliable in terms of both the gun its self and the industry-leading factory mags. Comparison with the market-leading Ruger 10/22 is inevitible but, personally, from a rifle with a semi-automatic action, I want the familiarity, extensibility and options provided by the AR platform which dominates the industry for good reasons.

The philosophy behind the 15-22 MOE model type is to provide a rifle that already has premium customisations done “out of the box”, further customisable with standard AR furniture, and extensible by providing the M-LOK system for accessories on the foregrip and buttstock.

Conclusion

There’s a reason why I’ve fired over 10k rounds through one of my two 15-22 MOE rifles, as well as thousands of rounds through the my other 15-22 MOE. There’s a reason why it’s my most-used rifle and my go-to for plinking and basic pest control. There’s a reason why I own two of these, when there are other 22LR rifles I’d like to master. The reasons are simple: it’s as light as a feather, extremely reliable, easy to maintain — and, to be honest, about as fun to use as any rifle can be. It’s also readily customisable. Although most of the parts can be replaced with a multitude of alternatives just like any other AR-15 spec rifle, I have not felt the need to replace the factory components and furniture on either of my two 15-22s, except for a cheap extractor kit I installed in the first one I bought.

As my local firearms dealer warned me when I bought my first 15-22, himself being a fellow 15-22 owner: “This is a hungry gun.” Because, when you’re sending 25 rounds down range as fast as you can pull the trigger, with a spare mag charged-up and ready to go, I can personally guarantee that this gun will oblige you to eat through unreasonably large quantities of ammo. A box of CCI segmented only fills two mags. All too often, sometimes even at 1am on a warm summer night, I find myself wishing I’d brought one extra box of CCI out with me.

  • M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - official image
    M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – official image
  • M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - official image
    M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – official image
  • M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL - official image
    M&P15-22 Sport MOE SL – official image

S&W M&P15-22 Sport MOE core specs

  • Platform: AR-15
  • Caliber: 22LR
  • Barrel
    • Length: 16.5″ (arguably carbine)
    • Material: 1137 Carbon Steel
    • Rifling: 1:15″ twist rate
    • Muzzle threading: 1/2″-28 (industry-standard for 22LR suppressors, and muzzle brakes, flash hiders)
    • Finish/Coating/Treatment: Armornite (a very durable, weather-resistant, nitride-based surface treatment, with a non-reflective matte black aesthetic, almost looks/feels like polymer)
    • Not fully free-floating out-of-the-box.
  • Handguard: Polymer – M-Lok slots
  • Action: Blowback
  • AR-15 type (rear) charging handle (proprietary)
  • Rail: Picatinny (MIL-STD 1913) – 1.215″ between rail top and bore centre, per standard mil-spec AR-15 rail
  • Shell deflector
  • 2-Position, receiver mounted, standard AR-15 safety lever
  • Weight: 78.88 oz
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 30.7″
    • Width 2″
    • Height 7″
  • Hold-open-when-empty/lock open: yes
  • Forward assist: no
  • Ejection port dust cover: no
  • Proprietary OEM mag capacity: 25

  • M&P15-22 Pistol [SKU 13321]
    M&P15-22 Pistol [SKU 13321]
  • M&P15-22 Pistol [SKU 13321]
    M&P15-22 Pistol [SKU 13321]
  • M&P 15-22 - Sport MOE SL - Flat Dark Earth [SKU 10210]
    M&P 15-22 – Sport MOE SL – Flat Dark Earth [SKU 10210]
  • M&P 15-22 - Sport MOE SL - Flat Dark Earth [SKU 10210]
    M&P 15-22 – Sport MOE SL – Flat Dark Earth [SKU 10210]
  • M&P 15-22 Sport M-Lok Kryptek [SKU 10211]
    M&P 15-22 Sport M-Lok Kryptek [SKU 10211]
  • M&P 15-22 Sport M-Lok Kryptek [SKU 10211]
    M&P 15-22 Sport M-Lok Kryptek [SKU 10211]
  • M&P15-22 Performance Center [SKU 11507] - the MOE SL model but with match-grade barrel, chamber and trigger
    M&P15-22 Performance Center [SKU 11507] – the MOE SL model but with match-grade barrel, chamber and trigger
  • M&P15-22 Performance Center [SKU 11507] - the MOE SL model but with match-grade barrel, chamber and trigger
    M&P15-22 Performance Center [SKU 11507] – the MOE SL model but with match-grade barrel, chamber and trigger
  • M&P15-22 Performance Center [SKU 11507] - the MOE SL model but with match-grade barrel, chamber and trigger
    M&P15-22 Performance Center [SKU 11507] – the MOE SL model but with match-grade barrel, chamber and trigger
  • M&P15-22 Sport MOE - Realtree APG HD Camo SKU #: [SKU 811046]
    M&P15-22 Sport MOE – Realtree APG HD Camo SKU #: [SKU 811046]
  • M&P15-22 Sport MOE - Realtree APG HD Camo SKU #: [SKU 811046]
    M&P15-22 Sport MOE – Realtree APG HD Camo SKU #: [SKU 811046]
  • M&P15-22 Magazine - 25-round [SKU 199220000]
    M&P15-22 Magazine – 25-round [SKU 199220000]
  • M&P15-22 Magazine - Short (10-round) [SKU 199240000]
    M&P15-22 Magazine – Short (10-round) [SKU 199240000]

S&W M&P15-22 models – the main current versions available today

  • All current &P15-22 models and versions on the S&W website
  • Sport [black version SKU 10208] – standard A2-style polymer grip (smooth with a finger groove) – instantly recognise this model by its more basic buttstock and pistol grip – note this gen2 15-22 has the M-Lok handguard – note that this “Sport” is the gen2 edition vs the OG gen1 original model simply called the “M&P 15-22” with a chunky quad-rail handguard [evidently S&W see M-Lok as the future]
  • MOE SL [black version SKU 10213] [FDE version SKU 10210] – this “Sport MOE SL” is the Sport model but with “Magpul Original Equipment” furniture included and this “SlimLine” version is the gen2 edition with an improved buttstock and the beaver-tailed “slimline” grip cited by the official nomenclature of this model:
    • Single-stage trigger (mil-spec, pull weight 6lbs, the long break feels like a gradual squeeze which tightens before the biting point)
    • MOE – Magpul Original Equipment
    • 10″ M&P Slim Handguard with MAGPUL M-LOK
    • MAGPUL MBUS Folding Sights – removable (this is the most popular folding/flip sights system on the market for ARs/MSRs)
    • MAGPUL MOE SL Stock (Slim Line) – mil-spec
      • 6-position adjustable buttstock
      • Integrated ambidextrous steel QD swivel adaptor
      • Standard slings: integrated 1.25″ footman’s loop at the rear/bottom for traditional webbing slings
      • MOE SL Enhanced Rubber Butt-Pad (recoil absorbtion)
      • Compatibility: mil-spec sized carbine receiver extension tube (AR15, M4 carbine)
    • MAGPUL MOE SL Grip (polymer)
    • 2″ M-LOK rail panel included to attach Picatinny-Spec, rail mounted accessories
    • MAGPUL M-LOK Type 2 rail covers (includes 6 panels, each covering one M-LOK® slot)
  • Performance Center [SKU 11507] – this is the Sport MOE but with fundamental upgrades to core specs for precision
    • Barrel
      • Length: 18″ fluted
      • Material: 4140 Chromoly Steel
    • Match-Grade Precision Barrel, Chamber and Trigger (note that the tighter chamber is less tolerant to variations between ammo brands and e.g. will not reliably chamber the longer a CCI Stinger with its elongated case)
    • 2-Stage Match Trigger
    • VLTOR® Fixed Stock
    • Hogue® Grip
  • M&P15-22 Pistol [SKU 13622]
    • 8″ barrel (pistol/submachine-gun)
    • SB Tactical SBA3 Adjustable Arm Brace With Closure Strap
      • One-point QD Sling Swivel Attachment Point
    • Perhaps inspired by the centrefire M&P 15 SBR

M&P15-22 ballistics

Using subsonic ammo and a moderator, with its 16.5″ barrel, and a 50mm scope tucked down about as low as I can reasonably mount it, when zeroed/centred at 50m my M&P15-22 gives me an optimal flat trajectory “sweet spot” at ranges between 25m (-0.5cm vs LOS) and 55m (-0.6cm vs LOS). In practical terms, it’s really noticeable that you basically just never seem to miss at these typical pest-control operating distances. The zenith of the projectile’s arc occurs at 40m (only +0.5cm vs LOS). To fully appreciate the magnificence of this flat trajectory goldilocks zone, consider that at 10m the bullet is 3.6cm below LOS, at 75m it’s 5.5cm below LOS, and by 100m it’s already dropped to 17cm below my point of aim (until I dial up 23 clicks). At 300m I need 149 clicks but, despite my day scope maxing out at 384 clicks, like any 22LR semi-auto the bullets begin to group sparsely beyond that distance. The central axis of the scope on my 15-22 sits about 2.715″ above the bore axis, with a minimal air gap below the objective bell, just enough to snugly fit my flip caps and neoprene scope protector. That’s a standard mil-spec rail placement 1.215″ above the bore axis, granting the AR standard 1.5″ scope height. For reference, on my bolt-action T3x Roughtech the rail top is a mere 0.87″ above the bore axis (16mm from bore axis to dovetail rail top, plus 6mm with the Tikka T3 picatinny rail attached) but additionally the barrel dips downwards allowing the bottom of the scope’s objective bell to sit significantly lower than the rail top, putting the optic’s LOS as close as possible to the bore. The optics height of the 15-22 is more comparable with that of my MSR-10 Hunter, an AR-10/SR-25/DPMS pattern rifle, albeit having a reduced receiver size accommodating a shorter proprietary BCG comparable to a hybrid between the Colt LE-901 and DPMS Gen II bolt system, thus forming a more compact AR-10 that feels more like an AR-15.

Why choose the .22 LR rimfire calibre?

A key advantage of an AR in 22LR is the much cheaper price versus larger cartridges and the wide availability of ammo. It’s an excellent way to train on the AR platform. Cheaper ammo can mean more practice. Price is also a consideration when planning and stockpiling for prepping and survival applications. In the context of hunting or survival, 22 is an effective calibre for hunting small and medium game up to a range of about 100m. 22LR minimises damage to meat. For examples of rabbit kill shots with my 15-22 MOE SL, see my video review of the XQ50 thermal optics which are ideal for this rifle.

For military or home defence usecases , 22LR is firmly established as a lethal bullet, and with subsonic ammo and an adequate silencer there is no more stealthy firearm than this, especially at night augmented by thermal or night-vision optics. The 22LR bullet is considered lethal to at least the maximum range at which once can expect to hit the target with this calibre, around 500m. The half-inch thick pine board test has long been considered a benchmark for lethality on a human target, as originally established by the US Army (59 ft lbs of pressure required to pass through this board, simulating a human rib-cage or skull). A 22LR FMJ bullet will punch through a steel door at 100 yards. A 22LR FMJ can cause damage on the other side of a 2-inch thick of particle board. Of course, increasing barrel length increases penetration depth by increasing muzzle velocity and thus kinetic energy. A 22LR FMJ even fired from a pistol can get through several steel plates in a row, but in contrast a 9mm FMJ can get through more than three-fold more. This is, of course, not even close to the penetration offered by 6.5 Creedmoor or 308 Win. On gel, flat nose penetrates further than round nose, probably because a flat nose takes more energy to deform than the small end of a round tip. Note that 9mm penetration in ballistic gel is comparable with that of heavier S&W 40 and 45 ACP bullets. The most important factor in hunting or defence is shot placement, and the lower recoil of 22LR definitely makes it easier to land multiple shots in roughly the same place.

S&W M&P 15-22 recommended accessories

Other reviews

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