Walther G22

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Walther G22
Type	Semi-automatic rifle
Place of origin	Germany
Production history
Designer	Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen
Manufacturer	Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen
Specifications
Weight	2.7 kg
Length	720-750 mm
Barrel length	508 mm
Width	55 mm
Height	220 mm

Cartridge	.22 Long Rifle
Action	Blowback
Muzzle velocity	1070fps - 1670fps
Maximum range	1 mile
Feed system	10-round detachable box magazine
Sights	Adjustable iron sights

The Walther G22 is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in the popular .22 Long Rifle cartridge. It is of bullpup design and constructed of polymer and steel.

It features a reversible bolt to enable cartridge ejection from either side of the receiver, similar to the Beretta Cx4 Storm carbine. Due to the bullpup design, it cannot be fired from the off hand due to the proximity of the ejection port and bolt handle to the shooter's face. A spare magazine, held by friction, is stored inside the stock behind the magazine well.

[edit] Usage

With the right ammunition, the G-22 can achieve shot groups as small as 0.25 inches (6.4 mm) at 55 yards (50 meters), and the rifle allows for a sound suppressor to be attached. From 500 feet away it is still possible to fire accurately (especially when using a telescopic sight).

Experience has shown that the G22 typically experiences feeding problems with high velocity ammunition, because the bolt assembly is not quite heavy enough, and is thrown back too vigorously, often rebounding into the casing still being ejected from the narrow ejection port. A new version has been released which has solved the above problems and can fire high velocity rounds without malfaction.

The G-22 is generally used for civilian informal practice, and it comes in two colors, black and camo green. Walther also makes a variable power 3-9 x 40 mil-dot scope which can be used to make longer-range shots. Three Weaver rail mounts are present on the G22: the top handle scope mount, a small mount just below the muzzle intended for a Walther-produced laser sight, and a longer mount under the forend for bipods, flashlights, etc.