I am unsure about what type of .22 caliber gun to get, a semi-auto or revolver.

I plan on using it mostly for target use and the occasional plinking of cans, small game or varmints. I guess, I prefer a semi-auto providing they are reasonably reliable and priced.

Also, I'd like the option of shooting .22 magnum rounds, if possible. Although, a magnum isn't necessary. It's just a wish-list of mine.

What are my options for the above while keeping a budget of under $400?

Thanks.

i personally would go with a revolver simpler to use and simpler to clean and maintain but that is just my 2 cents i hope that this helps

With all due respects to the S&W Forum......a Ruger Single -Six would be your best bet. Dual cylinders for 22 LR and 22 mag.....and pardon the pun "they're bullet proof"

Hate to say it, but the best I can recommend that will do "occasional plinking of cans, small game, or varmints" and "option of shooting .22 magnum rounds" would be a Ruger New Model Single Six with both .22LR and .22 Magnum cylinders. They're reasonably priced, going for about $350-$400 new.

I wouldn't say a revolver is simpler to clean--there are many more places that propellant residue goes in a revolver: cylinder, frame window, the 6 (at least) chambers, the barrel, the crown, etc. For a semi-auto, all I do when I clean it is to brush out the ejection-port area (breech face and feed ramp, and maybe the surrounding areas) and call it a day. Takes 5 minutes to clean a semi-auto, vs. about 20-30 for a revolver (for a decent cleaning).

That said, I like revolvers better, so I put up with the cleaning.

If you want an auto, the ruger MKII series is hard to beat. Very reliable and accurate.

The Single Six gives you the LR and Mag capability, and are really sweet.

I have both, MKII in stainless and the Single Six in blue, both with 5 1/2 barrel. You can't go wrong with either one.

I hesitate to recommend a Ruger either way. I own 3 of the MK series, but if I could only have one 22LR it would probably be a 6" K-22 S&W. They are a target grade revolver, one of the best shooters ever available in 22LR IMO. And yes, I own 2 model 41's. I think if you bide your time you can find a used K-22 in decent shape for $400. I just recently bought a model 18 for $350, which I considered to be a steal. the 6" model 17 seems to be easier to find, and usually a little more accurate for most people due to the longer sight radius.
S&W did make a model that could be ordered with 22LR and 22mag cylinders, but I forget which model number it was at the moment. The Ruger single six can be bought that way, but keep in mind it will not usually be as accurate in 22LR because the barrel is bored slightly larger to accomodate 22mag.
So, if you're going to have just one, make it a model 17!

I have had exceptionally good results with the Ruger Mk. II pistol and Ruger Single-Six revolver. Purchase a new one or buy a used one in good condition and you'll have a handgun that will give you a lifetime of pleasure. Currently I own a beautiful S&W M-18-3. It is an amazing revolver. I thoroughly enjoy owning and using it. It is as precise as a watch, as tough as a tank and simply a joy to my eyes. In my hands it feels like a old friend. I would not want to have to give it up. It is so very accurate that I now have church members who think that I am a good shot.

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If I could only have one, I'd want a revolver. That said, I love my S&W 22A-1 and I shoot it the most of all of my .22LR handguns. My suggestion would be get a nice .22LR handgun, and pick you up a rifle for the .22 Magnum. You can get a .22Magnum rifle for $150 or less.

My 02. cents say's get a semi-auto to start because of your budget limit and save up and get a nice S&W double action revolver like the 617 10 shot. SA/DA is the best way to go with a revolver in my opinion.

Ruger single six if the mag option is important to you AND you like single action revolvers. Ruger MK II or MK III if you want a solid semi auto .22 lr. Both in your price range and suitable for your needs. True a S&W mod 17 /617 is a finer revolver but you won't find many under $400 today

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Dave

My vote goes to the auto. Ignoring the 'Chinese puzzle' aspect of the Ruger Mk I-III series, I find most autos are much easier to clean. Extra mags means more shooting and less reloading. .22 Mag ammo has gotten too darn pricey, costing as much as many center fire calibers. I don't own a S&W auto (yet) so cannot offer advice there. I've shot the Walther .22's and liked them. I agree that a used K-22 would be an excellent choice if you decide on a revolver. I shoot autos for fun, revolvers for meditation & self improvement. I am in awe of expert D/A revolver marksmen.