Walther P22
The P22 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered for .22 LR (5.6 mm) rimfire ammunition. Manufactured by Carl Walther GmbH Sportwaffen, it was introduced in 2002.
| Walther P22 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | Semi-automatic pistol |
| Place of origin | Germany |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Carl Walther GmbH |
| Produced | 2002-present |
| Specifications | |
| Cartridge | .22 LR (5.6 mm) |
| Action | Blowback |
| Feed system | 10-round detachable box magazine |
| Sights | Adjustable open sights |
Operation
The P22 may be fired double action at about 11 pounds-force (49 N), and operates as a single action with slightly more than 4 pounds-force (18 N).[1] The P22 operates by blowback where pressure generated by a firing cartridge is countered by a combination of the inertial weight of the slide assembly and the force of the recoil spring. The action will not open until the projectile has left the barrel and the pressures have dropped to safe levels. The gun will not cycle efficiently unless high velocity .22 (5.6 mm) rounds are used.
Criminal use
A Walther P22 was one of the weapons used in the 2007 Virginia Tech shooting.[2]
A Walther P22 was the weapon used in the 2008 Kauhajoki school shooting.
See also
References
- "Walther P22". Guns & Ammo. 2008. Archived from the original on 15 April 2003.
- Williams, Reed; Morrison, Shawna (26 April 2007). "Police: No motive found". The Roanoke Times. Archived from the original on 7 February 2012.
