As a professional shooter, I’ve had the opportunity to test out two popular guns in the field: the Glock 44 Vs Ruger SR22.
In this article, I’m going to dive deep into each gun, compare their specs and performance, and share my personal experience with them. So, let’s get started and see how these two stack up against each other!
| Feature | Glock 44 | Ruger SR22 |
| Caliber | 22 LR | 22 LR |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 3.50 inches |
| Weight | 14.64 oz (empty magazine) | 17.5 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches | 6.40 inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds | 10+1 rounds |
Glock 44
The Glock 44 is a versatile firearm known for its lightweight design and adaptability, making it a top choice for both training and casual shooting.
Specs
- Caliber: 22 LR
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 14.64 oz
- Trigger Pull: 26 N
- Overall Length: 7.28 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.26 inches
- Slide Width: 1.00 inch
- Height with Magazine: 5.04 inches
Ruger SR22
The Ruger SR22 stands out with its compact design and user-friendly features, appealing to shooters looking for a reliable and easy-to-handle firearm.
Specs
- Capacity: 10+1
- Slide Material: Aluminum
- Grip Material: Polymer
- Barrel Length: 3.50 inches
- Width: 0.97 inches
- Weight: 17.5 oz
- Overall Length: 6.40 inches
- Height: 4.90 inches
Features Comparison: Glock 44 Vs Ruger SR22
1. Trigger Mechanism
Glock 44
The Glock 44’s trigger mechanism is a standout feature. With a pull of 26 N, it mirrors the feel of larger caliber Glocks, offering a smooth and consistent experience.
In my field tests, this reliability was a major advantage, allowing for predictable shooting. The trigger’s responsiveness and familiar Glock feel make it an ideal training tool, especially for those accustomed to Glock’s lineup.
Its ease of use and predictability in various shooting scenarios truly impressed me.
Ruger SR22
The Ruger SR22 presents a different story with its trigger mechanism. The double-action (DA) trigger requires more effort, which can be a bit challenging, especially for new shooters. However, the single-action (SA) mode provides a crisp and satisfying response.
My personal experience was mixed; while the SA mode was enjoyable, the DA mode felt a bit cumbersome.
Additionally, the manual safety and magazine disconnect features, while adding safety layers, also contribute to a more complex shooting experience. This complexity might be off-putting for those seeking a straightforward shooting experience.
Winner
When comparing the two, the Glock 44’s trigger mechanism emerges as the clear winner. Its consistency and ease of use make it a more user-friendly option, especially for consistent training and familiarization purposes.
The Ruger SR22, while offering a decent SA trigger experience, falls short in its DA mode, which can affect the overall shooting experience.
The Glock 44’s trigger provides a seamless transition for those used to Glock’s other models, making it a more versatile and appealing choice for a wider range of shooters, especially when considering its use as a training tool compared to the Ruger SR22.
2. Handling
Glock 44
The Glock 44 excels in ergonomics and handling. Its lightweight design, at just 14.64 oz with an empty magazine, makes it incredibly easy to handle, even for extended periods.
The grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold, which I found to be beneficial during long training sessions. Its balanced weight distribution and ergonomic design contribute to reduced fatigue and increased accuracy.
For shooters familiar with Glock’s lineup, the G44 offers a familiar and comfortable feel, making it an excellent choice for both training and casual shooting.
Ruger SR22
The Ruger SR22 also impresses with its ergonomic design. Weighing slightly more at 17.5 oz, it still maintains a comfortable and manageable weight.
What sets the SR22 apart are its interchangeable grips and the ability to customize the grip size to fit various hand sizes.
This customization can significantly enhance comfort and control for individual shooters. During my tests, I appreciated the ability to adjust the grip to my liking, which improved my shooting accuracy and comfort. The compact size and ergonomic design of the SR22 make it a strong contender in this category.
Winner
In the battle of ergonomics and handling, the Ruger SR22 takes a slight edge over the Glock 44. While both pistols offer comfortable and user-friendly designs, the SR22’s customizable grips give it a unique advantage.
This feature allows shooters to tailor the pistol to their specific hand size and preference, which can significantly enhance the overall shooting experience.
The Glock 44, though lightweight and well-balanced, lacks this level of customization. Therefore, for shooters who value personalized comfort and control, the Ruger SR22, compared to the Glock 44, offers a more adaptable and tailored ergonomic experience.
3. Ammo Compatibility and Performance
Glock 44
The Glock 44’s performance with different types of .22 LR ammo is a mixed bag. Initially, I faced issues with some bulk ammo brands like Remington and Winchester, which impacted its reliability.
However, after a break-in period and several thousand rounds later, it performed exceptionally well with Federal bulk, Winchester Power Point, and Minimags.
This adaptability is essential for a training firearm, allowing for cost-effective practice. The ability to use cheaper .22 LR ammo, as opposed to more expensive 9mm, is a significant advantage, especially for frequent shooters or reloaders who prefer not to chase brass.
Ruger SR22
The Ruger SR22 demonstrates impressive versatility with various .22 LR ammunition types. In my experience, it consistently handled different brands and types of ammo without any major issues.
This flexibility is a huge plus, allowing for a wide range of shooting experiences without being overly picky about ammo choices. The SR22’s reliability across different ammunition types was evident during my field tests, where it performed consistently regardless of the ammo brand or type used.
This consistent performance is particularly beneficial for casual shooters who may not have a specific ammo preference or for those exploring various ammo types.
Winner
Comparing ammo compatibility and performance, the Ruger SR22 takes the lead over the Glock 44. While the G44 eventually shows good performance with specific ammo types, the SR22’s ability to reliably handle a broader range of ammunition right out of the box gives it an advantage.
This reliability and flexibility make the SR22 a more user-friendly option for shooters who may not have the time or resources to experiment with different ammo types.
Pros & Cons of Glock 44
Pros
- Similar trigger feel to full-size Glocks, enhancing training consistency.
- Lightweight at 14.64 oz, it is easy to handle.
- Performs well with certain ammo types after a break-in period.
- Cost-effective for training with .22 LR ammo compared to 9mm.
- Safe Action® System provides a reliable safety mechanism.
Cons
- Limited customization options due to polymer slide.
Pros & Cons of Ruger SR22
Pros
- Factory Threaded Barrel allows for easy suppressor attachment.
- Interchangeable grips provide a customizable hand fit.
- Wide range of color and finish options for personalization.
- Reliable with various .22 LR ammo types right out of the box.
- Compact and ergonomic design.
Cons
- The double-action trigger can be challenging for some shooters.
Similarities Between Glock 44 & Ruger SR22
- Both have a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds.
- Each utilizes a polymer frame, contributing to their lightweight design.
- Both are chambered in .22 LR, suitable for training and casual shooting.
- Similar overall size, making them both convenient for carry and handling.
- Designed with a focus on ergonomics for comfortable shooting.
Differences Between Glock 44 & Ruger SR22
- Glock 44 has a Safe Action® system, whereas Ruger SR22 features a manual safety and magazine disconnect.
- Glock 44’s slide width is 1.00 inch, while the SR22’s is slightly narrower at 0.97 inch.
- The Glock 44 is lighter (14.64 oz) compared to the Ruger SR22 (17.5 oz).
- Ruger SR22 offers interchangeable grips and more color/finish options.
- Glock 44’s barrel length is 4.02 inches, longer than the SR22’s 3.50 inches.
Final Verdict
As a shooter who’s thoroughly tested both the Glock 44 and the Ruger SR22, I’ve come to a conclusion. While both firearms have their strengths and cater to different needs, one stands out as a winner in my book. After comparing their features, ergonomics, customization options, and ammo compatibility, the Glock 44 slightly edges out the Ruger SR22.
The Glock 44’s consistency, especially in its trigger mechanism, and its lightweight design make it an excellent choice for training purposes.
FAQ’s
What is the barrel length of a Glock 44 22LR?
The Glock 44 22LR has a barrel length of 4.02 inches.
How many rounds is a Glock 44 good for?
The Glock 44 has a magazine capacity of 10 rounds.
What ammo does a Glock 44 use?
The Glock 44 is designed for .22 caliber rounds and is compatible with various .22 LR ammo brands.
Is it OK to dry fire a Glock 44?
Yes, it is safe to dry fire a Glock 44, especially as a part of routine cleaning and safety checks.
