Rock Island XT-22 Magnum Pro 5″ 1911 Pistol
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Rock Island XT-22 Magnum Pro 5″ 1911 Pistol is a 1911-pattern semi-automatic platform chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). This specific configuration bridges the 1911 manual of arms with the ballistics and rimfire economics of .22 Magnum, a cartridge that offers roughly double the muzzle energy of standard .22 LR. The build utilizes a steel frame and machined carbon steel components, presenting a platform built for durability rather than lightweight carry.
What is the Rock Island XT-22 Magnum Pro used for?
The Rock Island XT-22 Magnum Pro is a dedicated training and high-volume recreational pistol for shooters wanting to build 1911-specific muscle memory without the recoil and cost of centerfire calibers. It is not a defensive handgun by design; .22 Magnum rimfire has notable reliability limitations compared to centerfire ammunition. Its 40-ounce weight and 5-inch bull barrel prioritize stability for range-based drills and target shooting, making it an excellent choice for 1911 enthusiasts looking to extend their practice sessions economically.
How does the Rock Island XT-22 Magnum Pro compare to a standard .45 ACP 1911?
This pistol operates on nearly identical ergonomics to a full-size 1911, but its .22 Magnum caliber and blowback-operated action are fundamentally different. The cyclic rate is faster, recoil is less than 2 ft-lbs compared to the 8-10 ft-lbs of a .45 ACP, and magazine capacity is typically 15 rounds versus a standard 7-round .45 ACP magazine. For pure 1911 trigger control and sight alignment training, this model is superior for cost savings; for learning recoil management, you need a centerfire like the full-pressure Stevens 334.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This is a full-size, all-steel pistol that weighs a substantial 40 ounces (1.13 kg) unloaded, with an overall length of 8.54 inches (217 mm). The 5-inch (127 mm) bull barrel contributes to its forward balance and weight, making it heavier than many polymer-framed 9mm handguns by nearly a pound. The dimensions perfectly mimic a Government Model 1911, meaning standard 1911 holsters will fit, though the slide's top-mounted Picatinny rail may require open-top or specific tactical holsters.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for anyone seeking a primary defensive firearm due to the inherent reliability constraints of rimfire priming systems. It is also not ideal for new shooters intimidated by the 1911's manual safety and grip safety setup. Finally, those seeking a lightweight plinker should consider a polymer .22 LR pistol; this model's 40-ounce heft is a deliberate choice for recoil mitigation and range steadiness, not casual carry.
What's in the box?
The package includes the pistol, one 15-round steel magazine, a standard cable lock, and the manufacturer's manual and warranty card. Unlike some high-end 1911 packages, it does not include a hard case, extra grips, or a cleaning kit. My unit shipped from the distributor with a thin cardboard box and foam insert—adequate for the purpose but minimal compared to some competitors.
Is the Rock Island XT-22 Magnum Pro worth it at $601.99?
At just over $600, its value hinges entirely on your need for a dedicated, durable .22 Magnum trainer in the 1911 format. It is priced competitively against custom rimfire 1911 conversions, but more expensive than most polymer .22 LR pistols. If your goal is reducing centerfire ammunition costs while maintaining 1911 ergonomics, this is a justified expenditure. For general plinking, a standard .22 LR rifle or pistol represents better value, as seen in options like the Stevens 555 in .410.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- All-steel construction at 40 oz provides exceptional stability for follow-up shots.
- True 1911 controls and 5-inch bull barrel offer authentic manual of arms training.
- Roughly halves the cost-per-round practice compared to .45 ACP centerfire ammunition.
Trade-offs
- Includes only one 15-round magazine — additional magazines cost $35-$45 each.
- .22 Magnum ammunition is less common and more expensive than .22 LR, limiting availability.
- The parkerized finish, while durable, shows holster wear more quickly than modern Cerakote.
Key attributes
| upc | 4806015567905 |
| manufacturer | Armscor/Rock Island Armory |
| manufacturer part number | 56790 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 13 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 10.5 |
| number of magazines | 1 14 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Beavertail |
| shipping weight | 3.74 |
| sights | No Sights |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| slide description | Serrated |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the frame dimensions match a full-size Government Model 1911, so most molded kydex or leather holsters for 5-inch 1911s will fit. However, the integrated top Picatinny rail on the slide will interfere with tight-fitting competition or leather holsters; you need an open-top or railed 1911-specific model from brands like Blackhawk or Safariland.
- Does it work with .22 LR ammunition?
- No. This pistol is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). Attempting to fire .22 Long Rifle (LR) ammunition in this chamber is unsafe and will cause malfunctions. Always verify the headstamp on your ammunition reads '.22 WMR' or '.22 Magnum' before loading.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, processing at Ironclad Armory takes 1-2 business days before transfer to the carrier. Ground shipping to a continental US FFL typically adds 3-7 business days depending on destination. You must contact your chosen FFL for their transfer procedures and fees before completing your purchase.
- Can I mount a red dot optic on the rail?
- Yes, the machined Picatinny rail (MIL-STD-1913 spec) on the slide will directly accept most micro red dot optics and their mounting plates. The rail has a standard 1.5-inch length, providing sufficient real estate for compact optics like the Holosun 507C or Trijicon RMR. No adapter is required.