Walther G22 (SS Tested June 2006)

The Walther G22 is a bullpup with the magazine behind the pistol grip; probably the only production gun of its type. The build shows an all-polymer body and a thumbhole (T/H) stock in a number of colour options. High, M16-type iron sights are fitted and there are integral Picatinny rails for accessories.

The standard barrel length is 20”; a 24” Long (L) version is available too. Feed is from a 10-round magazine, with the release catch located at the rear of the T/H cut-out. A spare is also included that sits in the rear of the butt. The rifle is right handed, but can be converted for LH use, which you can do yourself - though is best left to a competent gunsmith! The safety catch is ambidextrous for that purpose. The trigger pull is long and mushy as it uses a linkage and there’s not a lot you can do about it. The sight line is high though the rifle points and handles instinctively, a moderator is available along with a selection of scopes, lasers and torches. Guns can be purchased in RH or LH set-up and there are even package deals with optics etc. included.

1,It looks and feels different and shoots well enough, but in this class is probably let down a little by its low capacity.
2, Walther G22 L version, this is a radical design no doubt and offers the best and worst of bullpup technology
3, Clever – detail of the magazine system and release catch, a spare is carried in tandem at the rear of the butt/receiver

•Barrel 20 and 24”

•Capacity 10

•Automatic last round hold open Y

•Magazine safety Y

•Manual hold open N

•Prices: from £420

•Spare magazines £20

•Contact: NSRA Shop, 01483 485511

•For: Short and compact design

•Against: Heavy/mushy trigger pull

•Verdict: Interesting and unusual