The Rock Island Armory TM22 Feather has quickly gained popularity among both casual shooters and competitive enthusiasts. This lightweight, .22 LR pistol offers a compelling blend of features and affordability, but is it worth the hype? This in-depth review will explore its performance, ergonomics, reliability, and overall value to provide you with a complete picture.
Design and Ergonomics: Feather-Light Feel
The "Feather" in its name is no misnomer. Weighing in at a mere 19 ounces (unloaded), the TM22 Feather boasts a remarkably light profile. This contributes to exceptional maneuverability and reduced recoil, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions. The polymer frame is durable and resistant to everyday wear and tear, while the overall design is sleek and modern, avoiding any overly bulky or cumbersome features.
The grip, although comfortable for most hand sizes, might feel a bit small for those with larger hands. However, its slim design aids in concealability should you opt to carry it. The textured surface provides a secure grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions. The inclusion of a Picatinny rail allows for the easy attachment of accessories like lights or lasers, enhancing its versatility.
Key Ergonomic Features:
- Lightweight Polymer Frame: Contributes to easy handling and reduced fatigue.
- Textured Grip: Ensures a secure hold, regardless of conditions.
- Picatinny Rail: Enables customization with accessories.
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop: Suitable for both right and left-handed shooters.
Performance and Accuracy: A Surprisingly Solid Shooter
The TM22 Feather's performance often surpasses expectations for a pistol in its price range. While not a match-grade firearm, it delivers surprisingly good accuracy at typical self-defense and plinking ranges. The trigger pull is relatively smooth, though it could benefit from a slight improvement in its overall crispness.
The lightweight design, while beneficial for maneuverability, can slightly impact accuracy, especially at longer ranges. This is typical of lightweight pistols, however, and should not be considered a major drawback. The .22 LR caliber's inherently lower recoil further contributes to its ease of use and target acquisition.
Performance Highlights:
- Lightweight design leads to easy maneuverability.
- Acceptable accuracy for its class.
- Smooth trigger pull (with room for improvement).
- Low recoil, suitable for various skill levels.
Reliability and Durability: Standing the Test
The Rock Island Armory TM22 Feather demonstrates respectable reliability, though, as with any firearm, proper maintenance is crucial. Issues with feeding or jamming are infrequent, particularly when using high-quality ammunition. The polymer frame exhibits good durability against everyday wear and tear. However, like any firearm, dropping it or exposing it to harsh conditions could potentially lead to damage.
Value and Overall Impression: A Great Entry-Level Choice
Considering its price point, the Rock Island Armory TM22 Feather offers exceptional value. It's a highly affordable option for those seeking a reliable and fun .22 LR pistol, perfect for target practice, plinking, or even casual self-defense training. While it might not match the features or performance of higher-end models, its lightweight design, manageable recoil, and relatively good accuracy make it a strong contender in its class. The ease of maintenance and readily available parts are additional perks.
Conclusion: A Worthy Addition to Any Collection
The Rock Island Armory TM22 Feather is a well-designed and surprisingly capable .22 LR pistol. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the grip size and trigger pull, its strengths in terms of affordability, lightweight design, and reliable performance make it a compelling choice for both beginners and seasoned shooters. Its versatility and suitability for various applications solidify its position as a worthwhile addition to any firearm collection.
