- Laura Gangler
- September 13, 2023
Often purchased as a first gun, the Walther P22 is great on its own. But when owners get the itch to personalize this fun range gun, options abound, making it hard to know where to start. This past week, our team sifted through more than 40 of the most popular Walther P22 accessories and settled on 5 top picks that are just as useful, affordable, and reliable as the WP22 itself.
Whether it’s your first gun, or the latest addition to your collection, consider upgrading your experience with this iconic semi-auto handgun with any of these picks for the best Walther P22 accessories and upgrades.
Table of Contents
Top 5 Walther P22 Accessories and Upgrades
EDITOR’S CHOICE: MAGAZINE
Walther Arms P22Q Magazine with Finger Rest
Why We Picked It:
The Walther P22 comes from the factory with two standard 10-round capacity magazines. However, I prefer to have additional mags filled and ready to go. That way you can spend more range time shooting and less time reloading.
The top-notch quality and workmanship was the first thing I noticed about this Walther P22Q magazine. The durable nickel-plated finish can withstand normal usage and stay in good condition.
The finger rest improves the comfort of this already ergonomic gun. The affordable price point means I can have several ready to go. With its 10-round capacity, this mag legal is legal in all states (as of the time of this writing). [1]
If loading tiny .22 cal rounds is difficult, or you want to spend more range time shooting instead of reloading, do yourself a favor and get a mag loader like this one from Maglula.
PROS
- High quality and affordable
- Fits Walther P22 and P22Q
- Reliable
- Durable
CONS
- Some availability issues
EDITOR’S CHOICE: MAGAZINE EXTENSION
Tandemkross Wingman +5 Magazine Bumper Extension
Why We Picked It:
Installing the TandemKross “Wingman” bumper extension enables your Walther P22 magazines to load five extra rounds.
In addition to the nice 50% increase in ammo, these bumpers extend the bottom of the magazine, providing a noticeably better grip and improved handling especially for those of us with larger hands. The extra length and weight makes controlling recoil even easier. It doesn’t hurt that it also improves the look of this gun.
These workhorses are also a big help for seating the magazine securely into the pistol frame.
The only downside is that installing the bumper removes the magazine follower button so the last round hold open feature is disabled. I have no issue with this tradeoff.
PROS
- Increases magazine capacity 50%
- Helps securely seat magazine
- Enhances grip for better control
- Simple to use
- Improves aesthetics
CONS
- Disables last round hold open feature
EDITOR’S CHOICE: HOLSTER
Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
Why We Picked It:
While the P22 is not likely your EDC, you may use it for concealed carry drills. In that case, it’s important to have a holster that can stand up to training. The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster fits the bill for Walther P22. This steel core holster is stable and retention is spot on. The toolless, screw-free clips make adjustments for cant and ride height a breeze. This holster accommodates various carry preferences, making it versatile for different situations.
While this holster provides excellent retention and a smooth draw, comfort is where this holster really shines. CoolVent™ neoprene used in the holster base lives up to its name. It wicks moisture away from the skin and allows for increased airflow, especially in hot weather.
One of this holster’s standout features is its compatibility with over 500+ gun models. I appreciate the flexibility this offers, especially if you own multiple firearms. Plus, Alien Gear stands by the durability of their American-made IWB holster with a 30-day trial period and their Forever Warranty.
Related:
Top picks from our gun belt reviews
How to wear a paddle holster
PROS
- Comfortable
- Excellent retention
- Smooth draw
- Forever warranty + 30-day trial
- Fits a wide range of gun models
- Made in the USA
CONS
- Tight fit until broken in
EDITOR’S CHOICE: LIGHT AND LASER
Streamlight TLR-8A Weapon Light and Laser
Why We Picked It:
Small game hunters often use the Walther P22 making the compact and lightweight Streamlight TLR-8A Light and Laser a must-have. Even with its small footprint, the 500 lumens white LED brightly illuminated the area and the green laser accurately locked on to targets in a variety of lighting conditions.
The updated rear switch was easy to activate for both right or left handed users and the “safe off” feature prevents accidental activation (so you never give away your location).
I like that it attaches and detaches easily without having to put my hands in front of the muzzle. Made from anodized machined aluminum this light and laser is durable plus it’s water-resistant so you can worry less if using this in harsh weather conditions.
PROS
- 500 Lumens LED
- Safe to use in wet conditions
- Easy to attach
- Avoids accidental activation
- 11 hr. battery life using laser only
CONS
- 1.5 hr. battery life when using the light
EDITOR’S CHOICE: MAINTENANCE
Otis Technologies FG-1000 Elite Cleaning System
Why We Picked It:
Since many first-time gun buyers choose the Walther P22, it is important to include this cleaning set as a reminder to properly maintain your investment. Otis Technologies created the FG-1000 Elite Cleaning System to provide everything needed to clean almost any firearm all housed in a soft-side, zippered case. This set is useful for your first gun and your next.
The 60 piece set includes all the tools I regularly use to maintain my firearms plus some extras like obstruction removal tools, specialized precision tools for fine cleaning those harder to reach areas, and even optics cleaning gear. A smaller removable tactical cleaning system housed in its own pouch is handy to take into the field.
PROS
- Versatile
- Comprehensive set
- Good for a beginner
- Removable tactical cleaning set
- Includes optics cleaning gear
- Made in the USA
CONS
- Case is hard to organize
- Instruction sheet is not comprehensive
Your Guide to Buying
Magazines
With a range gun like the Walther P22, make the most of your range time by bringing along extra pre-loaded magazines.
Capacity
You don’t have to settle for the 10 round capacity since excellent options for mag extenders are available giving you an additional five rounds and increasing the length of the grip for better handling.
Compatibility
After-market magazines for the P22 can be hard to find. The very best we have found is the manufacturer’s own. In general a P22Q magazine will usually fit a Walther P22.
Loading
Don’t forget a loader to speed up loading time. These handy devices help take the pressure off your thumbs and make the chore a bit more enjoyable.
Lights
If you are using your P22 for small game hunting or in low light conditions, a mounted light is a necessary upgrade.
Luminosity
Allowing you to identify your target in any lighting condition, a bright gun mounted light can ensure you are able to move swiftly and safely through your environment. Look for one with at least 300 lumens (500 is preferable).
Weight
Look for a lightweight option with a small footprint so you aren’t adding unnecessary heft.
Ease of Use
Choose one with ambidextrous controls or buttons that you can easily reach.
Battery Life
Using these bright lights will eat up battery power quickly, so opt for one that has a long battery life.
Lasers
Red Light, Green Light
The main question with a laser is whether a red or green light is best. Like it or not, it depends. If you will be using it in brighter lighting conditions or shooting at longer ranges, a green light is ideal. If you will be using it in lower lighting conditions and at closer ranges, a red light laser can be your go-to.
Compatibility
Make sure it is designed to fit your P22 securely and the switches can be activated quickly and safely allowing you to maintain focus on your target.
Durability
Find something that can withstand changing weather and corrosion.
Battery Life
If you choose a laser/light combo, look for one with good battery life. Using the light along with the laser uses battery time much faster.
Holsters
While the Walther P22 is not generally considered a good concealed carry gun, many use it for target shooting and concealed drawing drills, making a holster for your Walther P22 a must.
Drawing Ability and Security
Used to carry your gun on your person, holsters securely attach to your belt, waistband, or a strap making your firearm accessible to withdraw for immediate use.
Related: How to draw a pistol from your holster
Materials
Typically made with durable materials such as kydex, nylon or leather that holds its shape to helps secure and protect your firearm when it’s not needed.
Related: Breaking in a Leather Holster
Concealment
The type of holster you choose will depend on how you intend to wear it. Outside the waistband (OWB) holsters are often worn by police, military, and those who choose to open carry. In areas that allow for concealed carry, inside the waistband (IWB) holsters are ideal.
Fit and Comfort
Make sure the size works for your stature and the way it attaches is comfortable for the way you carry. It also makes a difference if you are going to be active (say hunting, on the range, or going about daily activities) or if you will be sitting (like driving for long distances or waiting in a blind).
Read Next:
Our Team's Selection Process
Overall Performance
Our team tested on the range and at home to narrow down our list of the best Walther P22 Accessories. To make the list, each accessory or upgrade had to perform at a high level but also be user-friendly.
Weapon Compatibility
We selected each item based on its compatibility with Walther P22 and gave additional consideration if it could be used with other handguns or rifles.
Product Quality
We considered the quality of each item when selecting the best Walther P22 Accessories and Upgrades. Since these will get plenty of use on the range in training exercises, durability was a primary consideration.
FAQs
Yes, a silencer can attach to a Walther P22 with a threaded barrel. Depending on the design of the silencer, an adaptor may be required for mounting. Your choice in ammo will also affect reliability when using a suppressor.
The Walther P22 is not considered a good concealed carry gun for most people. It does make a great gun for training and would be suitable for use in a concealed carry class. The P22 is best suited for target shooting or small game hunting.
The Walther P22 semi-automatic pistol is chambered for .22 LR (Long Rifle) Rimfire ammunition.
And Our #1 WALTHER P22 ACCESSORY IS…
Walther Arms P22Q Magazine with Finger Rest is our number one Walther P22 accessory. Its nickel-plated finish can withstand normal usage and stay in good condition. The finger rest improves the comfort of this already ergonomic gun. The 10 round capacity makes this mag legal in all states [1]. Best of all, the affordable price point means I can have several ready to go.
Get the most out of shooting and owning this iconic semi-auto gun by making a few upgrades from our list of the best Walther P22 accessories. Whether you use your Walther P22 for training at the shooting range or for small game on a hunting trip, a few add-ons make this gun really fun.
Laura lives near Dallas, TX with her husband, James, and their two kids. She has been shooting and hunting since she was a child. Laura is passionate about helping women become comfortable with firearms and self-protection as well as safely introducing kids to the sport.
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