Thread: What is a good semi auto.22?

Originally Posted by mudgripz

Agreed. Ruger a nice wee carbine 22, but later models have dropped off in production quality over the years. We had about 6 and while ok, they were limited by consistent poor accuracy. The best of the stock 10/22s from memory averaged 1.1" for four consec groups at 50m. Alright but not for 60-100m field shooting. Older model was best. A fun little plinker and good if you like modifying.

Marlin semiauto trigger not as easy to adjust, but they have v good microgroove barrels, and can offer serious accuracy in a stock 22. Of about 15 Marlin semis of all types (60, 60DLX, 70HC, 75, 7000, 795, 990 etc) the least accurate Marlin was better than the best stock Ruger. Best examples two model 60s - one averaged 0.295" for four 5 shot groups (my standard) off the bench, and the other averaged 0.34". That's touching match rifle accuracy. With model 60s - of course you get tube magazines which some like and some don't. Best model 795 with box mag is my present one - 0.59" average at 75m, and 0.4s at 50m. That all translates to precise shooting at 100m.

There are Brazilian models around - Magtech, Rossi etc. Quality is average here - you may get a good one or you may not. Stock Ruger fine for plinking, but if you want now some 'old school' accuracy the Marlins are well ahead. Has been a problem with lack of parts supply (spring/pin/trigger kits etc) for Marlins but have spoken to Delta Mike in Inver and they're inporting kits from Mcarbo in next month or two.

CZ 512 an accurate little 22LR semiauto, but watch cocking handle. Earlier models (unsure about later ones) could break off handles - plastic polymer from memory.

Again - don't be tempted to buy 'names' - you could spend 2-3x as much and get less. In our team there are past and present club/provincial/NZ champions - and not one of them will go out and buy by brand, to have the must-have latest 'name'. Match rifles - yes.

Just thought would jump back in here.
I've been seriously considering a marlin 795
I would have preferred a 995 but unable to find one 795s are at least obtainable.
I'm looking at retrofitting a 995 stock onto a 795 and upgrading the trigger mechanism to an aftermarket metal one.
I would have to import the wood from the US, which are available.
I've also been looking at the savage/lakefield 64, these are still made but not sure how they stack up.