New S&W M&P 15-22

[rfizzle]

Not really an upper but thought it fit here...

I just got the new S&W dedicated .22. It's a polymer based AR-15 in .22 only.

Initial impressions:
Positives:
AR fire controls
Working Bolt catch/release -- means actually practicing mag changes the right way...
Works with Mil spec Stocks/grips
Has quad rail free float fore-end
$499 price tag, Spike's dedicated uppers run $549

Negatives:
One piece lower (with "buffer" tube) doesn't allow for single point sling mounts.
Magpul MIAD grip reacquires A10 grip wedge.
Mags do drop free, but you have to watch the first round in the mag and make sure it's not pointed down.
Mags are also a little longer than AR mags

Mags:
It takes S&W preparatory magazines I ordered an extra 3 for $21 ea here

Final Thoughts:
I found this thing to be very accurate, but I really enjoy the things like fire control and bolt catch/release that allow great training analog over a dedicated upper. I've shot over 500 rounds through this thing already and can report that this thing runs like a top on all kinds of .22. I used a few mags of CCI mini mag, but moved on to a brick of Winchester. I'm very pleased and as you've probably noticed I recommend this great .22 AR to anyone looking for a plinking gun, or training analog.

here she is:


As a side note, I have owned a dedicated spikes upper, and a CMMG .22 kit. Been more than happy with both. I've also had some time in a store with the "Colt" (Built by Umarex) and it's nice but has somethings like the 180 degree (full auto position only) safety; and a non working bolt catch/release. As well as non compatibility with some AR accessories.

[rfizzle]

Update
I've now shot over 1500 rounds of .22 through this thing, the only problems I've had were when I didn't check to make sure the first round wasn't pointed down. It loves CCI mini mags, and does good with just about everything else. I've added a few things to make this set up similar to my real AR's. Overall been increasingly happy with it.

I've Added:
-a Magpul MIAD which requires the A10/SR25 grip wedge ($4).
-a Vortex Strike fire red dot.
-a Gear Sector single point sling
-Magpul rail covers
-KAC VFG



Things I'd like to add:
-Barrel Threading
-MOE stock
-Tango Down VFG (I had the KAC laying around)
-Couple more mags (I'd like a total of about 8-10)
-More ammo

[LeJerk]

I checked one out at my local gun shop, and I liked it a lot. It felt nicer than the GSG-5 which I was also looking at. The price was right too! Less than $500 if I recall too!

[5.45x39]

Stupid question: can the upper be put on any normal AR lower? If so, any issues with using the stiff spring for surplus 5.45x39 with the 22lr upper?

[StagLefty]

I've been waiting for this rifle to show up-where have you guys seen them ?

[rfizzle]

Stupid question: can the upper be put on any normal AR lower? If so, any issues with using the stiff spring for surplus 5.45x39 with the 22lr upper?

It cannot, it is just a little bit different...

I've been waiting for this rifle to show up-where have you guys seen them ?

My Dad and I got them at Gander Mtn. We called and they happened to have
2 so we rushed over and got them.

[Lily]

Yo Scourge, Non- M30 related.... Happy New Year well...in a few days anyway.... and Thanks for the info - keep it comin...P.S. - Its time for me to change my convertibletop... anyone know where the best bargain can be had - I will have it installed on this end... Thanks

[TriggerHappy]

Jay http://www.co-ar15.com/forums/member.php?u=1958 has the best prices for these, that I have found. I have also made the BAD lever work, just a little grinding, works just like a fullsize. A zip-tie is the best single point too.



Not me, btw.

[Troublco]

I picked up one of these after Sixgun let my boy shoot his at the April shoot. I put a red dot on it, and took it apart to have a look at its innards. Whatever things are annoying, some others are terrific. For example, it uses standard AR fire control parts. So it's easy to upgrade the trigger if you want, but with just a little massaging mine is great. It's really accurate and a LOT of fun to shoot!
As for magazines, I got 4 spare mags from MidwayUSA for $20 each.

As for flash hider and other stuff, S&W is now making a model with some of those features, I saw them somewhere listed at around $680.