Bersa Thunder 22 Review

The Thunder 22’s first trip to the range was quite impressive on the whole. I did not shoot for groups on this trip but was able to hit a bowling pin at 15 yards consistently. I brought along two different types of ammunition: Federal Champion Bulk Pack (load #745) and CCI Mini-Mags. Both ammo types feature 36-grain bullets and are rated at 1260 fps out of a rifle barrel. Interestingly, the Mini-Mags were much more reliable than the Federal Champion bulk ammo. Out of 100 to 150 rounds fired, the Mini-Mags experienced only one failure to eject (FTE), resulting in 99% reliability. Meanwhile, the Federal bulk was less successful at about 65-70% reliable, with FTEs being the only malfunctions.

Initially, I had figured that the Mini-Mags were a hotter round and, thus, more reliable. However, load data from both manufacturers suggests that both ammo types are pushing the same weight bullet at the same velocity, meaning overall energy is equal for both. Because of this, I began to examine what else could cause these issues. After reviewing rounds from both, and experiencing a lightly stuck casing with the Federal ammunition, I have hypothesized that a difference in casings may be the culprit. To help test this chamber size/casing theory, I will be running a variety of ammunition through this firearm and will update this review to reflect my findings as necessary.

On the whole, the Thunder 22 was accurate and reliable when used with high-quality ammunition. Recoil was mild as would be expected from a .22 LR firearm. It must be noted that as a result of the small size and shorter sight radius of the Bersa, extra care should be taken to acquire a quality sight picture before and during firing. Those used to a larger framed handgun may find that the lightweight of the Bersa takes some getting used to.