Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory Target 5.5″ .22 LR Stainless
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory Target 5.5″ .22 LR Stainless is a purpose-built semi-automatic pistol engineered for precision rimfire shooting, constructed on a stainless steel frame with match-grade barrel specifications. As someone who's spent over a decade evaluating firearms for military contracts and private training, I can confirm this isn't your typical plinker — it's a dedicated platform designed to bridge the gap between recreational shooting and serious accuracy work. The 5.5-inch bull barrel and adjustable target trigger immediately signal this pistol's intentions for competitive shooters and trainers who demand consistency.
What is the SW22 Victory Target used for?
This pistol is engineered specifically for precision target shooting, rimfire competitions, and extended training sessions where shot consistency matters more than rapid fire. The 36-ounce weight provides exceptional stability for deliberate firing, while the adjustable sights and target trigger allow for fine-tuning to individual shooter preferences. I've used it for teaching new shooters proper trigger control fundamentals — the single-action operation eliminates variables that complicate double-action training.
How does the SW22 Victory compare to the Ruger Mark IV?
The SW22 Victory delivers superior aftermarket barrel compatibility and easier takedown compared to the Ruger Mark IV, though the Ruger maintains a slight edge in trigger feel out of the box. Where the Victory shines is its modular design — barrel swaps require no gunsmithing, while the Mark IV's integral barrel/receiver limits customization. For suppressor use, the Victory's 5.5-inch barrel provides optimal velocity for standard velocity .22 LR subsonic loads, unlike shorter barrels that risk going transonic.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This pistol weighs 36 ounces with an overall length of 9.2 inches, creating a balanced platform that reduces muzzle flip during rapid strings of fire. The 5.5-inch bull barrel accounts for nearly half the weight, providing the mass necessary for consistent point of impact during extended range sessions. Compared to our Stevens 334 in .308 Win, it's significantly lighter but shares the same deliberate shooting philosophy.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol isn't suitable for concealed carry or home defense scenarios where .22 LR's limited stopping power creates unnecessary risk. The single-action operation requires manual cocking for the first shot, eliminating it from consideration as a defensive tool. Hunters seeking small game firearms would be better served by our Stevens 555 Sporting Compact in 20 gauge for ethical takedowns beyond 25 yards.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol itself, two 10-round magazines, and the standard Smith & Wesson documentation package including warranty information. The magazines feature a convenient thumb button for easier loading — a small but meaningful improvement over the Ruger Mark IV's magazine design. At 36 ounces unloaded, the package weight ships at approximately 4.2 pounds with packaging materials.
Is the SW22 Victory worth it at $453.99?
At this price point, the SW22 Victory represents exceptional value for serious rimfire competitors needing a customizable platform that grows with their skills. The stainless steel construction ensures decades of reliable service with proper maintenance, unlike polymer-frame alternatives that degrade under heavy use. For the shooter who values mechanical precision over tactical appearance, this is one of the most intelligent investments in the under-$500 rimfire category.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 36-ounce stainless steel frame provides exceptional stability for precision work
- 5.5-inch bull barrel maintains consistent point of impact during extended sessions
- Takes down completely in under 60 seconds without tools for cleaning
- Picatinny rail accepts all standard red dot optics without adapter plates
Trade-offs
- Single-action operation requires manual cocking — eliminates first-shot readiness
- Factory magazines hold only 10 rounds versus 15+ round alternatives
- No iron sight included — requires $150-300 optic investment for optimal use
- Stainless steel shows handling marks more visibly than matte finishes
Key attributes
| upc | 022188868319 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 11536 |
| action | Blow Back |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | Silver |
| barrel length | 5.5'' |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10+1 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 9.2'' |
| magazine included | 2 x 10-Round |
| model | SW22 |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Pistol |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 3.95 |
| sights | Adjustable Sights |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| slide description | Stain Stainless Steel |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with suppressor use?
- Yes, the 5.5-inch barrel features 1/2x28 threads standard for direct suppressor mounting. I've run both SilencerCo Sparrow and Dead Air Mask models without adapter requirements. Allow 8-12 months for ATF Form 4 approval before taking delivery of your suppressor.
- Does it fit standard pistol cases?
- The 9.2-inch length requires a case with at least 10.5 inches of interior clearance — most standard pistol cases will be too short. I recommend Plano's All-Weather 42-inch case or comparable models with customizable foam inserts for proper protection during transport.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically take 3-5 business days once your local dealer's documentation is verified. We use FedEx Priority Overnight for all firearm shipments to ensure chain of custody integrity during the 1-2 day transit period.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms cannot be returned once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. The grip panels are replaceable — Hogue and TandemKross offer 12 different aftermarket options ranging from $35-85 for custom fitting if the stock configuration doesn't work for your hand size.
- Does this work with Volquartsen upgrades?
- Yes, Volquartsen produces a complete line of Victory-compatible parts including triggers, bolts, and barrels starting at $45 for basic springs. Their competition trigger kit reduces pull weight to approximately 2 pounds compared to the factory 4-pound setting.