Smith & Wesson Expands Popular Firearm Lines with New .22 LR Offerings

Dual Platform Launch: M&P 22X Pistol and FPC Folding Carbine

Smith & Wesson has officially announced the release of two complementary firearms designed for tactical training and recreational shooting, both chambered in the versatile .22 LR cartridge. The Tennessee-based manufacturer has introduced the M&P 22X pistol alongside the FPC 22LR folding carbine, strategically expanding their established M&P pistol series while simultaneously growing the innovative FPC family lineup, which recently welcomed a powerful 10mm variant.

Cross-Platform Design Philosophy

Shared Components and Compatibility Features

The engineering team at Smith & Wesson prioritized seamless integration between these two new firearms, creating a cohesive training system built around shared components and familiar handling characteristics. Both the M&P 22X and FPC 22LR utilize identical 20-round magazines, ensuring shooters can interchange feeding systems between platforms without compatibility concerns.

The design philosophy extends beyond magazine compatibility, incorporating the signature M&P ergonomics that have made the brand a favorite among law enforcement and civilian shooters. Both firearms feature the distinctive flat-faced trigger profile and aggressive grip texture that users have come to expect from the M&P series, creating a consistent training experience across platforms.

Training Benefits and Cost-Effective Practice

These new additions provide an economical pathway for shooters to maintain proficiency with their flagship handgun and carbine systems. By offering access to budget-friendly training ammunition, both firearms enable extended practice sessions without the financial burden associated with centerfire cartridges, while maintaining the familiar manual of arms from their full-power counterparts.

FPC 22LR Folding Carbine: Compact Versatility

Space-Saving Engineering

The FPC 22LR showcases Smith & Wesson's commitment to innovative design through its streamlined profile and unique folding mechanism. This engineering approach transforms an already compact carbine into an exceptionally portable package, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a backpack-compatible firearm option.

Capacity and Storage Solutions

Performance specifications include a generous 20+1 capacity, providing substantial firepower in a lightweight platform. The carbine's buttstock incorporates dedicated storage space for two additional magazines, effectively tripling the available ammunition supply while maintaining the gun's compact folded dimensions.

The FPC 22LR carries an MSRP of $549, positioning it competitively within the folding carbine market segment.

M&P 22X Pistol: Refined Training Platform

Internal Mechanism and Ergonomics

The M&P 22X incorporates an internal hammer system within a refined, slim grip profile that enhances handling characteristics while maintaining the reliability expected from Smith & Wesson's manufacturing standards. The pistol's feeding system utilizes the same magazines as the FPC 22LR, reinforcing the cross-platform compatibility that defines this product launch.

Tactical Training Applications

This pistol represents an excellent solution for shooters seeking a tactically oriented pistol and carbine combination chambered for the affordable and low-recoiling .22 LR cartridge. The pairing offers training benefits that extend beyond simple cost savings, providing muscle memory development and handling familiarity that translates directly to centerfire platforms.

The M&P 22X is priced at an MSRP of $499, making it an accessible entry point into the M&P ecosystem.