Rock Island AL22 Revolver .22 LR 4 in. 9 rd Stainless
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Rock Island AL22 is a medium-frame revolver chambered for .22 LR with a 4-inch barrel and 9-round cylinder, built with stainless steel construction and DA/SA action for reliable range performance. It serves as an affordable training tool that mimics centerfire revolver handling while keeping ammunition costs low. This revolver fills a specific niche for shooters who want revolver mechanics without the recoil and expense of larger calibers.
What is the Rock Island AL22 used for?
The Rock Island AL22 is primarily used for range training and introductory revolver practice. Its 9-round capacity allows for extended drills without frequent reloading, while the 4-inch barrel provides a balanced sight radius that helps develop proper sight alignment fundamentals. The .22 LR chambering makes it ideal for new shooters or those working on trigger control without the distraction of significant recoil.
How does the Rock Island AL22 compare to the Taurus 942?
The Rock Island AL22 offers better value for pure training applications than the Taurus 942, costing approximately $200 less while providing similar functionality. Where the Taurus 942 includes more polished finishes and slightly smoother out-of-the-box trigger pull, the AL22 delivers comparable mechanical reliability at a lower price point. For shooters focused on fundamentals rather than aesthetics, the AL22 represents the more practical choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Rock Island AL22 weighs 36.5 ounces with an empty cylinder and measures 9.75 inches in overall length. The 4-inch barrel provides a 7.25-inch sight radius between the fixed front and adjustable rear sights, while the cylinder diameter measures 1.56 inches across. These dimensions create a balanced handling profile that mimics full-size centerfire revolvers without excessive weight.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for concealed carry or defensive purposes due to its size and .22 LR chambering. The 36.5-ounce weight makes it heavier than most polymer-frame defensive handguns, while the .22 LR cartridge lacks the stopping power needed for personal protection. Additionally, competition shooters seeking speedloader compatibility should look at centerfire options with more established aftermarket support.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one 9-round cylinder, and basic owner's documentation without additional accessories. Unlike some competitors, Ironclad Armory does not include speedloaders or cleaning kits, keeping the base price lower but requiring separate purchases for complete range readiness. The packaging meets all ATF requirements for secure transportation but lacks the padded cases found with higher-priced alternatives.
Is the Rock Island AL22 worth it at $811.99?
At $811.99, the Rock Island AL22 represents fair value for dedicated training applications where .22 LR economy matters most. While you could purchase a Stevens 555 shotgun for similar money, the AL22 serves a different purpose—providing affordable revolver practice that translates directly to larger caliber skills. For shooters who specifically need .22 LR revolver training, the price justifies the tool's purpose-built design.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 9-round capacity — 2 more rounds than standard 6-shot .22 revolvers
- 36.5 oz weight — provides stable platform for recoil control training
- Stainless steel construction — resists corrosion better than blued finishes
- Adjustable rear sight — allows precise zeroing for different ammunition types
Trade-offs
- No included speedloader — requires $25-40 aftermarket purchase for efficient reloading
- Rubber grips lack texture — may require $15-30 stippling or replacement for wet conditions
- DA trigger pull measures 12 lbs — heavier than most semi-automatic .22 pistols
- Limited aftermarket support — fewer customization options compared to Smith & Wesson or Ruger models
Key attributes
| upc | 812285026312 |
| manufacturer | Armscor/Rock Island Armory |
| manufacturer part number | AL22 |
| shipping weight | 3.6 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 WMR ammunition?
- No, the Rock Island AL22 is chambered exclusively for .22 Long Rifle ammunition. The cylinder dimensions and chamber specifications are optimized for .22 LR only, and attempting to fire .22 WMR could cause dangerous pressure conditions. Always use ammunition specifically marked .22 LR with maximum velocity under 1,250 fps for optimal performance.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- The AL22 requires holsters designed for medium-frame revolvers with approximately 1.56-inch cylinder diameter. While it shares similar dimensions with some K-frame holsters, we recommend specific models from DeSantis or Safariland that account for the 4-inch barrel length. Universal holsters may not provide secure retention due to the unique grip profile.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically requires 7-10 business days for processing and transportation to your local FFL dealer. All firearms shipments must comply with ATF regulations and undergo mandatory background checks, which can add 1-3 additional days depending on state requirements. Express shipping options may reduce transit time but cannot expedite regulatory processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns are subject to strict ATF regulations and typically only accepted for mechanical defects verified by manufacturer inspection. If the revolver doesn't fit your hand properly, we recommend trying grip accessories from Hogue or Pachmayr before considering return options. All returns must be initiated within 30 days of purchase and shipped through licensed FFL dealers.
- Does this work with suppressor attachments?
- The Rock Island AL22 does not include threaded barrel capabilities for suppressor attachment. The 4-inch barrel features a fixed front sight base that cannot accommodate threading without significant gunsmithing work. For suppressed .22 LR shooting, consider dedicated models like the Ruger Mark IV or Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact that include factory threading.