The Ruger Mark I, II, and III are all good serviceable semi-autos. I have owned all of them at one time or another. You can find a really nice Mark II 678 model used for about $250 to $300. Of all the Ruger .22's that model has always been my favorite.
If you really want a nice gun, shop for a used High Standard target model. Citation, Sharpshooter, even a Field King. These can all be had for $500 or less. Even a Sport King is a very good shooter. And they hold their value and even go up in value because they went out of business in 1984. I have several and love them. Always work well and are extremely accurate. Target models have adjustable trigger pulls....John
Anyone have experience with one of the 1911 .22s?
I have been thinking about an Heritage Rough Rider. It's a revolver, but it would still let me practice hitting the sweet spot for very low cost. Of course, a semi-auto would be more like my EDCs, but I am thinking a little variety is nice.
If it's ever offered nearby for $170 again (instead of the normal $250—I know, you can find it cheaper online, but by the time I pay shipping, FFL and taxes it is no longer a bargain), I think I will jump on it.
I have a 92g Beretta, and ive seen the uppers for those but im not sure if i wanna just buy an upper or just have a dedicated .22
If you've got about $3000 to spare you can run a rig just like TAS4. He let me try it at 42769vette's shoot and it is truly a sweet set up.
For an inexpensive plinker the Buckmark or the Ruger MK's and the S&W lower priced models are a good place to start.
If you already have a Glock or Sig or 1911 you can find .22 uppers that do just what TAS4 said. Same trigger, controls and feel. Makes for cheap centerfire practice.
To answer the question, if you want an entry-level target gun, the Browning Buckmark, the Ruger Mark II or 22/45, the S&W 22A or the Beretta Neos are all fine choices.
Please note that if you want a decently legitimate target pistol, the Walther P22, the Sig Mosquito and any similar gun really does not qualify. They are simply not as accurate as the others and do not have a good enough trigger for target shooting.
This Glock/Apple fan boy is correct.