I consider the S&W 15-22 a solid plinker. I've put 1000's of trouble-free rounds through mine. The 15-22 functions in most ways like a AR15, so it's a good understudy/practice tool with lower cost ammo. Many AR15 goodies will also fit on a 15-22. For a serious, long term heavy use .22LR semi-auto I lean to the Ruger 10-22 platform.