I picked up a 22A-1 new last November and generally enjoy it. However, it will be on its way back to the factory tomorrow to correct an ongoing problem. The first shot fired, last Thanksgiving, the empty shell extracted and ejected, but the slide apparently short-cycled, failed to feed the next round, and would not open more than about 1/4". After fussing with it for about 20 minutes, I finally got the slide to open and cycle normally. It worked normally during many shooting sessions and several hundred rounds after that. The last 5 to 10the times out, though, it has repeated that exact same jam every time, requiring lengthy sessions of slide tugging to clear, after which it will sometimes fire many rounds, or jam again in the next shot, or the next magazine. It almost always occurs on the first round in either of the two supplied mags. The last time out, I half-expected it to happen again ( it did), so I left it in its jammed condition (verified empty chamber and emptied mags) and called for a shipping tag when I got home. Other than the jamming problem, I do like the gun a lot. I trust S&W will fix whatever the problem may be. Oh yes, I took one pf my K-22s along, and was able to complete my intended mission of destroying various targets of opportunity (notably, separating some 1reason) 1/2" to 2" thick branches from some deadfalls).
Overall, I would rate the 22A as a good gun, with pretty good accuracy and nice balance. Take-down is a snap, very easy, as is reassembly, much easier than a Ruger MK II. As to accuracy between the two, it would not be fair for me to compare them, as my Ruger is one of the relatively rare 10" barrel target models, which is a true tack-driver, but the 22A is capable of some very respectable groups. I believe you will enjoy it. Do allow a little time to get used to the grip, it is a bit different.
