Browning 1911-22

Smaller incarnations of full-size guns aren’t necessarily a recent phenomenon-nor are full-size models that have been chambered in substantially smaller calibers. Rimfire versions of service revolvers and semi-automatics have always been popular for training and plinking purposes, and conversion kits have made it easy for target shooters to turn select models into .22 caliber pistols with relative ease. Browning took the concept to a different level, though, with the release of its miniaturized 1911-22.

Approximately 85 percent the size of a standard M1911A1, the .22 Long Rifle blowback 1911-22 emulates the lines of its parent model. Made entirely in the United States, the little pistol’s slide and frame are constructed from aircraft-grade T6 aluminum alloy, which is both durable and keeps the gun’s weight down to an even one pound. For added strength and proper function, the slide is fitted with a steel block that encloses the firing pin and extractor.

Because the gun is a blowback, the barrel is rigidly secured to the frame by a slide stop pin-but, aside from that and the obligatory changes to the magazine, the 1911-22 incorporates nearly all of the features of the famous .45 ACP original, including the 17.5-degree grip angle.

Technical Specifications:

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: single-action, blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol
Barrel: 4¼" steel, button-rifled, target-crowned
Magazine: detachable, 10-round-capacity box
Sights: fixed-blade front, drift-adjustable square-notch rear
Trigger: single-action, 4-lb., 12-oz. pull
Stocks: checkered polymer
Overall Length: 7 1⁄16"
Weight: 16 ozs.
MSRP: $600

For Further Reading:
• Review: Browning 1911-22
• Campbell: The Browning 1911-22
• SHOT Show 2011: Browning 1911-22