What Caliber is a Glock 22?

If you're familiar with Glock pistols, you likely know that model numbers generally correspond to the caliber of the gun. But with over 30 models of Glocks on the market spanning multiple calibers, it can get confusing. Here at Glockmeister, one of our most frequently asked questions is: what caliber is a Glock 22?

The Glock 22 Shoots .40 S&W

The simple answer is that the Glock 22 chambers and fires .40 S&W ammunition. Released in 1990 alongside the Glock 23 (.40 S&W compact), the Glock 22 was the first pistol manufactured by Glock Ges.m.b.H. for the increasingly popular .40 S&W cartridge.

This moderate size semi-automatic handgun combines a durable polymer frame with a steel slide and barrel to reliably fire the .40 caliber round with moderate recoil. The Glock 22 is still trusted by law enforcement and civilians alike for its out-of-the-box accuracy, large 15+1 magazine capacity, and proven Glock ergonomics.

Why Choose .40 S&W?

The .40 S&W was developed in partnership with Glock and released shortly after the FBI shootout in Miami in 1986. This violent gunfight highlighted deficiencies in the standard 9mm cartridges used by law enforcement at the time. The goal was to design a cartridge with improved stopping power over the 9mm, but with flatter trajectory and lighter recoil impulse than .45 ACP.

The resulting .40 S&W cartridge indeed bridges this gap nicely. It delivers rugged, hydro-shock style terminal ballistics in a lighter recoiling package. This understandably made it an instant hit in the law enforcement community. The Glock 22 was one of the first pistols chambered for this new round.

Here’s a quick rundown on why .40 S&W remains a popular all-around choice:

• Delivers excellent stopping power and hydrostatic shock effect
• Flatter shooting than .45 ACP with moderate recoil
• Higher mag capacity than comparable .45s
• Proven real-world performance record

So if you're looking for a robust service pistol or home defense gun, the Glock 22 in .40 S&W checks a lot of boxes. The moderate power level is easy to control but still packs a serious punch.

Glock 22 Specs and Features

• Caliber: .40 S&W
• Operation: short recoil, locked breech, tilt barrel
• Weight (unloaded): 24.49 oz
• Length: 8 in
• Barrel Length: 4.49 in
• Width: 1.34 in
• Height: 5.47 in
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Frame: Polymer
• Slide/Barrel: Tenifer coated steel

Some key features that make the Glock 22 a versatile and durable pistol:

• Rugged polymer frame with textured grip
• Corrosion resistant Tenifer slide coating
• Fixed dovetail sights (adjustable sights available)
• Safe Action trigger with 5.5 lb factory trigger pull
• Three safeties including firing pin and trigger safety
• Cold hammer forged barrel with hexagonal rifling
• Extended mag release and slide stop

Combine these features with match-grade accuracy and reliability exceeding 30,000 rounds fired without a malfunction, and you’ve got an extremely capable pistol built for real-world use.

Shop Glock 22 Handguns and Gear

If you think the .40 caliber Glock 22 sounds like a good fit for your needs, we invite you to shop our full stock of these pistols, magazines, parts, and accessories. We are a certified Glock dealer with factory trained armorers to answer any questions about the G22 or other Glock models.

We also offer gunsmithing services performed by expert Glock-certified armorers if you’d like any custom work done such as sights installation, stippling, or trigger jobs.

Additionally, check out our range of quality aftermarket barrels, sights, triggers, basepads, holsters, and more specially designed for the Glock 22. We hand pick and test products from top brands that meet our standards for fit, finish, and reliability.

Have More Questions?

If this overview didn’t fully answer your question on the Glock 22’s caliber or specs, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of shooters has extensive hands-on experience with the “G22” and various ammunition loads. We can make specific recommendations on magazines, ammo types, sights, holsters, or other accessories tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between .40 S&W and .40 caliber?

There is no difference. .40 S&W refers to the full cartridge name (.40 Smith & Wesson) while .40 caliber specifies the bullet diameter. These terms refer to the same exact ammo cartridge.

Can a Glock 22 fire .40 cal and 10mm ammo?

No, the Glock 22 is only chambered for .40 S&W ammo. Do not attempt to fire 10mm or any other unsupported ammunition in the G22 or severe firearm damage could occur.

What is the best Glock 22 magazine?

We recommend the factory 15-round magazines for optimal reliability. Aftermarket stainless steel magazines from Magpul and ETS Group also offer great corrosion resistance and enhanced baseplates.

What holster should I use with a Glock 22?

Quality kydex or hybrid holsters like those from Blackpoint Tactical, Vedder Holsters, Tier 1 Concealed, or StealthGearUSA can’t be beat. Choose a model like an IWB or OWB rig based on your carry position preference.