Thursday, June 22, 2017

Review of the Pheonix Arms HP22A Handgun

https://www.phoenix-arms.com/pages/hp22a
     I want to start off by stating that I am new to guns and shooting and far from any kind of expert. I realize guns can be a hot topic, for many different reasons. In America it is a 2nd Amendment right to own a firearm. Unfortunately many people use guns to cause harm and to kill each other, and in no way do I condone that behavior. I am for common sense gun laws that will truly make a community safer without eroding our right to bare and keep firearms for self-defense, sport, and hunting. Without further ado, let's get to my review of the Phoenix Arms HP22A.
     The HP22A model is a compact handgun in the 22lr(long rifle) caliber. It is made in Ontario, California and is one of the two guns produced by Phoenix Arms. It is semi-automatic with a 10 round magazine capacity. The model I own has a 3" barrel, but you can also buy or find them with a 5" "target" barrel for better long-range accuracy. It has multiple manual safeties, with one on the slide lock, one blocking the firing pin and an external hammer. It weighs in around 20oz and is 4 by 5.5 inches in length. Available in Satin Nickel or Black Matte finish.

I happened to stumble upon this gun at a local gun shop during it's grand re-opening under a new owner. I wasn't really looking to buy anything, but once seeing the price tag and the look and feel of the HP22A,  I couldn't pass it up. My Dad actually had it in his hands ready to buy it, but went with something else, leaving me with the last one they had in stock. I bought it brand new for $129.99, a steal when most 22lr handgun can run $300-500 easy. I liked the compact feel of the gun, and even with the low price, seems to be well-made. Add the fact that I didn't own a 22 and with the ammo being cheap and available, it was a fine addition to my collection.
http://www.guns.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Phoenix-Arms-HP22A-2.jpg
     Shooting this gun is a lot of fun. I have around 600+ rounds through mine, with only a few  malfunctions. It has low-recoil, decent grip, is small and light-weight and is ridiculously safe with all the different safeties. The accuracy is pretty good at short-range, the rear sites adjustable if need to be. Racking the slide to chamber a round and cocking the external hammer can be done in one motion, or can be done separate for those with weaker hand strength. I do believe this is an ideal gun for a new shooter or elderly shooter with weak grip, due to the low recoil and ease of operation. The safeties will help keep a new shooter from shooting them self and other's around them, and that's always a good thing.  Did I mention this gun comes with a life-time warranty, and Phoenix Arms has good customer service. Can it get much better??
 
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/214554369719991023
Now to the cons. The safeties are the biggest turn off for most people, because they can be down-right confusing and unnecessary in my opinion. Do you really need a slide safety when you already have a firing pin block safety and an hammer you can decock? The great state of California says "Yes you do!" The slide safety stops the magazine from being able to be pulled from the gun when in fire mode, and stops it from going in as well. This safety can be modified and basically taken off with plenty of YouTube videos showing how to do so, but just be warned that it will void the warranty if you need to send back for repairs. Another small con for some is that it can only use standard velocity 22lr ammo, using a higher velocity round can lead to the frame cracking and other problems with the gun. Self-defense can be another factor to consider, with this gun not really being the best option. It is small and can fit in a purse or pocket for concealed carry, but only shoots standard 22lr and those damn safeties! If your looking for a self-defense gun, The HP22A is better than having nothing but probably not the best choice.
    In conclusion, The HP22A is an inexpensive gun that almost anyone can shoot and enjoy. It may not be the highest quality brand-name gun with all the latest bells and whistles, but it does go bang and is reliable. It's great for new shooters just getting into the sport, and a good option for elderly or other people looking for low recoil and safety. Very easy to take apart and maintain, with a lifetime warranty with good customer service for when something does break. Great handgun to practice with at the range and to learn how a semi-automatic works. Could even be an option for concealed carry, depending on the individual. I highly recommend this gun if you can find it, a great of value for the money.  
http://www.easybakegunclub.com//photo/820/Phoenix-Arms-HP22A.html

         

No comments:

Post a Comment