Crosman 1322 .22 Pneumatic Air Pistol.

The Crosman 1322: A Legendary Air Pistol for Plinking and Small Game

The Crosman 1322, also known as the American Classic in its current iteration, is a pneumatic air pistol that has earned a reputation for being a reliable, affordable, and versatile option for target practice, plinking, and even small game hunting. Introduced in 1977, it quickly became a favorite among shooters of all ages and experience levels. Though it was discontinued for a period, Crosman reintroduced the 1322 in 2012, ensuring its legacy continues for new generations of airgun enthusiasts.

Design and Operation

The Crosman 1322 is a single-shot, bolt-action, variable pump pneumatic air pistol. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

• Caliber: .22 caliber (5.5mm)
• Powerplant: Pneumatic pump action. The integrated pump lever located under the barrel pressurizes air within a chamber with each pump. The number of pumps determines the power output.
• Action: Single-shot, bolt-action. A bolt handle located at the rear of the receiver cocks the piston and loads a pellet.
• Barrel: 10.1-inch (256 mm) steel barrel with button rifling for improved accuracy.
• Sights: Adjustable rear sight (peep or notch) and a fixed blade front sight. A dovetail rail allows for mounting a scope or red dot sight for enhanced precision.
• Safety: Manual safety lever conveniently located on the trigger guard.

The pumping mechanism is a defining characteristic of the 1322. By working the pump lever a variable number of times (typically up to 10 pumps), the user controls the amount of air pressure used to propel the pellet. This allows for adjusting power for different purposes. Fewer pumps are ideal for plinking at close range, while more pumps provide greater power for target shooting or small game hunting.

Specifications

• Length: 42.5 inches (108 cm)
• Weight: 3.2 pounds (1.45 kg)
• Barrel Length: 10.1 inches (256 mm)
• Sight Radius: 14.5 inches (36.8 cm)
• Trigger Pull: Single-stage, around 6 pounds (2.7 kg)
• Muzzle Velocity: Up to 600 fps (feet per second) with heavier pellets and maximum pumps (may vary depending on pellet weight and quality)
• Ammunition: .22 caliber lead pellets

Performance and Applications

The Crosman 1322 offers a good balance of power, accuracy, and affordability. While not a match gun, it delivers decent accuracy at short to medium ranges, making it perfect for plinking at cans or paper targets. With more pumps, it can also be effective for dispatching small game like rats and squirrels, although local regulations should always be consulted before hunting with airguns.

The 1322’s user-friendly design and variable power make it a great choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike. Here are some of its common applications:

• Plinking: The 1322 is a fun and inexpensive way to enjoy target practice in your backyard (with proper safety precautions in place, of course).
• Target Shooting: With its adjustable sights and decent accuracy, the 1322 can be used for target shooting at short to medium distances.
• Small Game Hunting: Depending on local regulations, the 1322 can be a humane option for hunting small game like pests or invasive species.
• Training: The 1322’s affordability and ease of use make it suitable for teaching firearm safety and marksmanship fundamentals.

Aftermarket Support

One of the strengths of the Crosman 1322 is the extensive aftermarket support available. A wide variety of accessories can be found to enhance the pistol’s functionality and performance, including:

• Scopes and red dot sights: For improved precision at longer distances.
• Shrouds: Reduce noise and improve aesthetics.
• Shoulder stocks: Enhance stability and comfort for target shooting.
• High-performance pellets: Match-grade pellets can improve accuracy.
• Trigger kits: For a lighter and smoother trigger pull.