Update: M&P22 handgun in 22LR coming this summer

I was just told by Smith Wesson Corp that their M&P22 pistol will hit retail stores this July 2011. This is great news. I already own two M&Ps (service & compact) and having a 22LR version is going to be very important part of my training and practice. 

S&W released the M&P22 during Shot Show 2010 but some delays have pushed back the retail launch date. Here are some of the features included in the Shot Show models:

• 10 and 12 round single stack magazines 
• The back 'palm-swell' is size medium but its molded into the grip so it can NOT be removed
• The pistol will be made by Walther in Europe
• Ambi safety (matches the standard safety)
• Threaded barrel made by Walther so P22 parts will fit the threads
• Exact same dimesions as a regular M&P
• CNC machined aluminum slide
• Dovetailed sights (so they could be replaced but use caution since its an aluminum slide)
• Price should be $350-420, or basically the same as a 9mm version (sucks)