The M&P15-22 was designed to be a less expensive alternative for training with an AR-15 style rifle, as the rifle itself is much less expensive than most AR-15s, and the .22 LR ammunition is often much less expensive than the .223 Remington/5.56×45mm NATO. The rifle features a safety and bolt lock that operate just like an AR-15's.
The M&P15-22's lower recoil is used as a way to ease new shooters into the sport, allowing them to familiarize themselves with AR-15 controls without the fear of excessive recoil or noise.[3] The disassembly process is very similar to the AR-15 and S&W M&P 15.[4] The lower receiver detaches from the upper with two captured pins.[4] The lower receiver contains a standard M&P15 trigger assembly that is compatible with most AR-15 trigger groups.[4] The upper receiver contains the bolt, barrel, and charging handle.[4] However, the upper and lower receivers of the M&P 15-22 are both deliberately incompatible with standard AR15/M4 uppers and lowers.
Smith & Wesson offers the M&P 15/22 in a variety of finishes including Kryptek Highlander and Muddy Girl in addition to basic black or tan.[6]
Safety issue
In 2016, Project Appleseed temporarily banned use of M&P15-22 rifles at their shooting clinics following a series of out-of-battery discharges, pending a full investigation and correction from Smith & Wesson. This was based on several incidents that occurred in multiple states, including one that injured a shooter on the line and another where multiple cartridges fired with but one trigger pull.[7][8]
