Smith & Wesson has recently expanded its rimfire catalog with two new additions: the M&P22X Pistol and the M&P FPC 22LR Carbine. Both chambered in the venerable .22 Long Rifle, these offerings appear to be a strategic play to capture a wider audience, from the casual backyard plinker to the more dedicated training enthusiast. The overarching theme here seems to be providing accessible, low-recoil platforms that don't skimp on contemporary features or familiar ergonomics. Think of it as Smith & Wesson's way of saying, "Come for the affordability, stay for the fun."

First up, the M&P22X Pistol, which seems to inherit some good genes from its predecessors, the M&P22 and M&P22 Magnum. It maintains a full-size polymer frame, mated with a stainless-steel slide and barrel – a combination that suggests durability. The pistol boasts a 4.1-inch threaded barrel, complete with a 1/2x28 thread adapter, making it suppressor-ready right out of the box. For those who enjoy a bit of silence with their shooting, this is certainly a welcome feature. Optics-ready capabilities and a Hi-Viz LiteWave H3 fiber-optic front sight paired with a blacked-out square-notch rear sight round out the package, aiming to make target acquisition a breeze.

Underneath the hood, the M&P22X employs a straight blowback, single-action system with an internal hammer. This design choice promises a crisp trigger break and, more importantly for a rimfire, reduced recoil. This makes it a suitable candidate for prolonged range sessions, where fatigue can set in, or for introducing new shooters to the world of firearms without the intimidation of heavier calibers. Smith & Wesson also seems to have considered ambidextrous users, including manual thumb safeties and a reversible magazine catch, which is always a thoughtful touch for left-handed folks who often feel like an afterthought.

One feature that might just put a smile on many faces is the magazine capacity. The M&P22X ships with two 20-round magazines, which also happen to be compatible with its carbine sibling, the FPC 22LR. This cross-platform compatibility is a clever move, allowing users to consolidate their gear – a definite plus for anyone who appreciates less clutter. For those residing in areas with more restrictive regulations, a 10-round compliant version is also available. All this can be yours for an MSRP of $499, which seems to position it competitively in the rimfire pistol market.

Joining the pistol is the M&P FPC 22LR Carbine, a folding-stock rimfire rifle that mirrors the design ethos of Smith & Wesson's existing FPC series. This carbine features a 16.25-inch carbon steel barrel with a threaded muzzle, ready for suppressors or other muzzle accoutrements. Its party trick, however, is its ability to fold horizontally to a compact 16.375 inches. This makes it remarkably portable, easily storable in a backpack, or tucked away in a vehicle for those impromptu range trips or, dare we say, a bit of discreet transportation.

The FPC 22LR is not shy when it comes to customization, boasting a full-length Picatinny rail and M-LOK slots on the handguard. This means ample real estate for optics, lights, lasers, or whatever other tactical trinkets one desires. The fixed stock is not just for show; it cleverly incorporates storage slots for two spare magazines, and the rifle itself ships with three 20-round magazines – so you'll have plenty of plinking power. Furthermore, the grip is designed after the M&P pistol series and includes four interchangeable palmswell inserts, allowing users to fine-tune the ergonomics to their liking, much like finding the perfect pair of shoes.

Tipping the scales at approximately 80.48 ounces, the FPC 22LR is a bit heavier than some other rimfire carbines on the market. However, this added heft often translates to a more robust build quality and improved modularity. It features a flat-face trigger, a cross-bolt safety, and a reversible magazine catch, all contributing to intuitive handling for those already acquainted with the M&P platform. With an MSRP of $549, it aims to be a compelling option for those seeking a feature-rich, compact rimfire rifle.

The true genius of these two releases lies in their intended synergy. They are designed to work together, offering cross-platform compatibility and shared controls. This cohesiveness makes them particularly attractive for shooters looking to build a unified rimfire training setup, allowing for consistent muscle memory development. The optics-ready design, threaded barrels, and generous magazine capacities collectively position both the M&P22X and FPC 22LR as adaptable tools for a wide array of shooting activities, from casual target practice to more competitive endeavors.

Ultimately, Smith & Wesson's latest foray into the rimfire market appears to be a calculated move to provide modern, feature-packed firearms in an economical caliber. With the M&P22X and FPC 22LR, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation within the rimfire arena, delivering products that strive to balance performance, adaptability, and value for a diverse spectrum of shooters. It seems they're aiming for a bullseye, and only time will tell if they hit the mark with the broader shooting public.