Description
Let me tell you about a .22 LR that makes you feel like a better shooter than you probably are. I’ve put a few thousand rounds through various Buck Marks over the years, and the BUCK MARK PLUS VISION BLUE SHOAL Handguns Semi Auto is the one I’d hand to a new shooter or keep on the bench for a perfect plinking day. It’s just that reliable and easy to shoot well.
What is it? The Browning Buck Mark Plus Vision Blue Shoal is a .22 LR semi-automatic pistol built for accuracy and fun. It features a 5.5-inch bull barrel, a fiber optic front sight, a blue anodized aluminum alloy receiver, and comes with two 10-round magazines. At $624.59, it’s a premium rimfire pistol that delivers exceptional value for its target-grade performance.
Why This Buck Mark Stands Out
Look, the magic of any Buck Mark is in the barrel. That 5.5-inch bull barrel is fixed—no tilting, no fuss. It’s locked tight to the frame, and that rigidity translates directly to consistency. I’ve found this design, combined with the light 1.8 LBS weight, soaks up recoil (not that .22 has much) and makes follow-up shots instinctive. The trigger is a classic Buck Mark affair: clean, crisp, and predictable right out of the box. No gunsmithing required to have a great pull.
The ‘Vision’ part of the name comes from the excellent fiber optic front sight. It gathers light like a champ, creating a bright, easy-to-acquire dot against the fully adjustable rear sight. In varied Missouri lighting, from overcast woods to a bright indoor range, this setup gets you on target fast. The blue anodized finish on the aluminum alloy receiver isn’t just for show—it’s a durable, corrosion-resistant coating that holds up.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a finicky pistol. It runs best with standard or high-velocity .22 LR rounds. I’ve had great luck with brands like CCI Mini-Mags and Federal AutoMatch. The 10-round capacity is perfect for a relaxed session, and the magazines are easy to load and drop free cleanly. The grip angle and texturing feel natural, promoting a consistent hold shot after shot.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds (2 included) |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 Inches |
| Overall Weight | 1.8 lbs (approx. 29 oz) |
| Receiver Finish | Blue Anodized |
| Receiver Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Sights | Fiber Optic Front, Adjustable Rear |
Pros & Cons: My Take
Pros: The accuracy is simply top-tier for a production .22 pistol. The trigger is fantastic from the factory. The fiber optic sight system is brilliant for quick acquisition. It’s incredibly reliable with the right ammo. The build quality feels solid and justifies the price point.
Cons: Field stripping for a deep clean is more involved than some modern pistols—you’ll need a hex key. Some shooters might prefer a threaded barrel for a suppressor, which this model lacks. The magazine release is a heel-style, which can feel slow if you’re used to thumb buttons.
Who Is This For?
This is the ideal pistol for the shooter who values precision over rapid fire. It’s for the new shooter wanting to learn fundamentals on a soft-recoiling, accurate platform. It’s for the seasoned enthusiast who wants a dependable, fun rimfire for training or small game. If you’re looking for a tactical .22 trainer, you might want a different profile. But if you want a pistol that will outshoot most others in its class from a bench rest, this is it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
A: No, the Buck Mark Plus Vision model features a standard, non-threaded 5.5-inch bull barrel. If a suppressor host is a priority, you’d want to look at the Buck Mark Suppressor Ready models.
Q: What kind of ammo does it run best with?
A: For optimal reliability, stick with standard or high-velocity copper-plated round nose .22 LR. I’ve had minimal issues with CCI Mini-Mags, Federal AutoMatch, and Aguila Super Extra. It may be less reliable with sub-sonic or unplated lead rounds, especially during break-in.
Q: Can I mount an optic on this pistol?
A: Yes, but not directly. The receiver is not drilled and tapped from the factory. However, the aftermarket supports this platform well. You can purchase a Picatinny rail mount from brands like Tactical Solutions or EGW that replaces the rear sight base, allowing you to add a red dot.
This BUCK MARK PLUS VISION BLUE SHOAL Handguns Semi Auto is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you’re after a supremely accurate, no-excuses .22 pistol that makes practice a genuine pleasure, this Buck Mark deserves a long look.
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