Taurus TX22 Competition 22 LR 16+1 Optics-Ready
About this product
The Taurus TX22 Competition is a full-size, semi-automatic .22 LR pistol engineered for competitive shooting and suppressor-ready range use. It combines a polymer frame with an optics-ready slide and threaded steel barrel, shipping with three 16-round magazines and target-focused sights. As an armorer who's handled everything from military sidearms to NFA-regulated builds, I appreciate how this platform bridges the gap between entry-level plinkers and serious competition gear.
What is the Taurus TX22 Competition used for?
This pistol is built for rimfire competition circuits like Steel Challenge and practical training where low recoil and high capacity matter. The 16+1 round capacity lets you run full stages without constant reloads, while the 1/2-28 threaded barrel accepts suppressors or compensators—critical for noise-sensitive ranges or timed events where muzzle control affects split times.
How does the Taurus TX22 Competition compare to the Ruger Mark IV?
The TX22 Competition outperforms the Ruger Mark IV Tactical in magazine capacity and out-of-the-box optics readiness, holding 16 rounds versus the Ruger's 10 and including pre-cut slide serrations without requiring an adapter plate. Where the Ruger wins is aftermarket support—its Volquartsen trigger upgrades and barrel swaps are industry standards, while the Taurus aftermarket is still developing.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 23.6 ounces with a 5.25-inch barrel length and overall length of 8.15 inches—nearly identical to a full-size Glock 17 but 40% lighter due to polymer construction. The height measures 5.44 inches, which accommodates optics without exceeding most competition box size rules.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this if you need deep concealment or .22 WMR power—the full-size frame won't conceal easily, and .22 LR lacks stopping power for defense. It's also not ideal for vintage bullseye shooters who prefer heavy steel frames like those on our Stevens 334 bolt actions; this is a modern polymer platform for speed, not weight-based stability.
What's in the box?
You get three 16-round magazines, a cable lock, and the pistol—no optic plate or tools included, so budget $50-100 for a mounting plate specific to your red dot. The sights are installed but require a screwdriver for windage adjustments.
Is the Taurus TX22 Competition worth it at $462.98?
At $463, it undercuts comparable optics-ready .22 pistols by $150-200 while including three magazines—a $75 value alone. For new competitors or trainers running high-round-count drills, the cost-per-round savings versus centerfire ammo justifies the purchase within two range trips. Consider it alongside our Stevens 555 shotguns if you're building a multi-discipline competition kit.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 16+1 capacity—6 rounds more than Ruger Mark IV
- Weighs 23.6 oz unloaded—40% lighter than all-steel equivalents
- Includes three magazines—$75 value at aftermarket prices
Trade-offs
- No included optic plate—adds $40-60 and 2-week wait for adapter
- Polymer frame flex under heavy optics—not suitable for 4+ oz red dots
- Manual safety lever requires 5.5 lb pressure—stiffer than competition standards
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327932741 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 1-TX22C151 |
| action | Striker Fired |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 5.25" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 16 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 8.15 |
| model | TX22 |
| number of magazines | 3 16 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.5 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Manual/Striker Block/Trigger |
| shipping weight | 3.15 |
| sights | White Dot |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| slide description | Aluminum/Optic Ready/Serrated |
| thread pattern | 1/2"-28 tpi |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Holosun 507C optics?
- Yes, but requires a separate mounting plate—the slide is cut for Shield RMSc footprints. Purchase a $40 adapter plate from CHPWS or EGW for direct mounting without gunsmithing.
- Does it fit standard .22 LR suppressors?
- Fits any 1/2-28 threaded suppressor like the SilencerCo Sparrow or Dead Air Mask. Thread length is 0.4 inches, so use crush washers or shims to avoid baffle strikes.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers ship within 3 business days via UPS Ground, arriving in 5-7 days to most Rocky Mountain states. Requires signed delivery and FRL pickup confirmation.
- Can I return it if it fails to cycle ammo?
- Returns accepted within 30 days for mechanical defects, but .22 LR ammo sensitivity is common—try CCI Mini-Mags first. Cycling issues with bulk ammo require manufacturer warranty service, not return.