.22 Handguns

4 Perfect .22 Handguns for a Walk in the Woods

While wandering out in the wild, a .22-caliber handgun can be quite handy.

From small-game hunting to plinking old cans, these handy shooters are a joy to carry afield.

These four .22 handguns will give you many years of joy out in the wilds.

Let's take a look.

1. Ruger Mark IV Pistol

What says accuracy more that the Ruger MK IV autoloading pistol? These handy pistols come in many versions but the .22 LR/.45 ACP model is a personal favorite of this author. However, there's currently a recall, so check Ruger's website to make sure the pistol you buy isn't affected. Don't forget to watch the used market for previous Ruger Mark models. They're all superb shooters.

2. Ruger GP100 Revolver

Well-known for being chambered for the hard-hitting .357 Magnum cartridge the GP100 is also now chambered for the .22 LR. This double-action revolver gives you a full 10 shots before you need to reload. With the heft of the larger-caliber revolver, this is a great practice piece for trail carry.

3. Heritage Single-Action .22 Revolver

If you're looking for a more economical .22 handgun, the Heritage Manufacturing Inc.'s single-action revolvers are hard to beat. Make sure to get the convertible .22 LR/.22 Magnum model that changes caliber with just a switch of the cylinder.

4. Smith & Wesson Model 617 Revolver

Smith & Wesson's iconic K-frame revolver is available also in .22 LR caliber. This 10-shot, double-action revolver is tall in looks and will also prove to be an excellent backwoods weapon for poisonous snakes, old cans and tasty small-game targets.

Do you like articles about the outdoors? Click here to view more articles by Eric Nestor. You can follow him @ericthewoodsman on Twitter, The Classic Woodsman on Facebook, and @theclassicwoodsman on Instagram.  You can view more Nestor Photography photos at Nestor Photography.

NEXT: SUNDAY GUNDAY: 5 DISCONTINUED HANDGUNS THAT NEED TO BE MADE AGAIN