Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in police trade-in firearms. The Iver Johnson TP22 .22 LR Police Trade-In Pistol is a compact, reliable .22 LR pistol with a history of law enforcement service. Its small stature and accessible caliber make it a practical choice for various applications. Available now for $329.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Iver Johnson TP22?
| Product Type | Pistol |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 LR |
| Action | Semi-Automatic |
| Barrel Length | Approximately 2.8 inches |
| Frame Material | Likely Zinc Alloy (Zamak) |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Grips | Polymer |
| Sights | Fixed |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 Rounds (Magazine NOT Included) |
| Condition | Used, Police Trade-In (Good to Very Good) |
| Finish | Blued/Black |
| Weight (Unloaded) | Approx. 15-16 oz |
| Overall Length | Approx. 5.3 inches |
| Country of Origin | Likely USA (assembled/distributed) |
| SKU | KGS-TP22-POLICE-TRADE |
What are the key features of this Iver Johnson TP22?
This Iver Johnson TP22 .22 LR police trade-in pistol offers a blend of historical value and practical utility. As a police trade-in, each pistol carries a unique story, having served in law enforcement before being made available to the public. These aren’t pristine collector’s pieces, but reliable, functional firearms that have seen real-world use.
- Compact Design: The TP22’s small size makes it discreet and easy to handle, appealing to those seeking a compact .22 LR pistol for various purposes.
- .22 LR Caliber: The ubiquitous .22 LR cartridge is known for its low recoil, affordability, and widespread availability, making it an excellent choice for training, plinking, or as a backup firearm.
- Police Trade-In History: Each pistol has a verifiable history of service, adding a layer of provenance often sought by collectors and enthusiasts. This condition typically means they’ve been maintained, albeit with visible wear.
- Simple Operation: Featuring a straightforward semi-automatic action and fixed sights, the TP22 is designed for uncomplicated use, which can be beneficial for new shooters or those preferring simplicity.
- Affordable Entry: As a trade-in, this pistol represents a more accessible price point for acquiring a functional firearm, especially compared to new production models in similar calibers.
Who should consider buying this Iver Johnson TP22?
Buy it if:
- ✅ You’re looking for an affordable, compact .22 LR pistol for plinking or informal target practice.
- ✅ You appreciate firearms with a police trade-in history and the character that comes with it.
- ✅ You need a reliable, no-frills .22 LR for a tackle box, truck, or as a general utility firearm.
- ✅ You’re a new shooter seeking a low-recoil option for learning handgun fundamentals.
- ✅ You’re a collector interested in less common, historical compact .22 LR pistols.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You require a pistol with a high-capacity magazine (magazine not included, and factory mags can be scarce).
- ❌ You’re looking for a primary self-defense firearm (consider a larger caliber like a 9mm pistol for that role).
- ❌ You expect a pristine, factory-new finish without any signs of wear.
- ❌ You need a pistol with modern features like optics compatibility or extensive aftermarket support (see our modern pistol selection).
How does the Iver Johnson TP22 compare to similar pistols?
| Feature | Iver Johnson TP22 Police Trade-In | Phoenix Arms HP22A | Ruger LCP II .22 LR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Zinc alloy frame, steel slide | Zinc alloy frame, steel slide | Polymer frame, alloy steel slide |
| Quality | Serviceable, historical, signs of wear | Budget-oriented, can be finicky | Modern production, generally reliable |
| Compatibility | Limited aftermarket, original mags scarce | Specific to HP22A, mags available | Good aftermarket, mags readily available |
| Lifespan/Durability | Proven service life, but used condition | Can be limited with heavy use | Good for a .22 LR, modern construction |
| Price | $329.00 (as listed) | ~$200-$250 (new) | ~$400-$450 (new) |
| Shipping | Same-day from Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
What are the pros and cons of the Iver Johnson TP22?
Pros:
- ✅ Historical Value: Each pistol has a unique past as a police trade-in.
- ✅ Affordable .22 LR: A cost-effective way to get into a functional rimfire pistol.
- ✅ Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and handle for extended periods.
- ✅ Low Recoil: The .22 LR caliber is ideal for new shooters or recoil-sensitive individuals.
- ✅ Simple Mechanism: Straightforward design for reliability and ease of field stripping.
Cons:
- ❌ Magazine Not Included: You’ll need to source a magazine separately, which can be challenging for this model.
- ❌ Visible Wear: As a police trade-in, expect cosmetic imperfections and signs of use.
- ❌ Limited Aftermarket Support: Finding parts or accessories can be difficult compared to more common firearms.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Iver Johnson TP22
What is a police trade-in firearm?
A police trade-in firearm is a used weapon that was previously issued to law enforcement personnel and then traded in to be replaced by newer models. They often show signs of holster wear and use but are typically well-maintained internally.
Is the Iver Johnson TP22 a reliable pistol?
For a compact .22 LR of its era, the Iver Johnson TP22 is generally considered reliable for its intended purpose of plinking and casual shooting. Like any used firearm, individual performance can vary, and proper cleaning and lubrication are important.
What kind of ammunition does the Iver Johnson TP22 use?
The Iver Johnson TP22 is chambered for .22 Long Rifle (LR) ammunition. It’s best to use standard velocity or high-velocity rounds for optimal function, avoiding hyper-velocity rounds which can sometimes cause premature wear in older rimfire pistols.
Are magazines available for the Iver Johnson TP22?
Original magazines for the Iver Johnson TP22 can be somewhat scarce since the pistol is no longer in production. We recommend searching online firearm accessory retailers or auction sites for compatible magazines. The pistol does NOT include a magazine.
Where can I buy an Iver Johnson TP22 online?
You can purchase this Iver Johnson TP22 .22 LR Police Trade-In Pistol directly from Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We specialize in firearms and offer secure online purchasing and shipping to your local FFL dealer.
What is the condition of this police trade-in pistol?
As a police trade-in, this pistol is in good to very good used condition. Expect cosmetic wear such as holster marks, finish thinning, and minor scratches consistent with active service. Functionality is checked prior to listing.
Is the Iver Johnson TP22 suitable for concealed carry?
While its compact size makes it concealable, many modern firearms offer better ergonomics, capacity, and more robust construction for self-defense. The .22 LR caliber is also generally considered less effective for defensive purposes compared to larger calibers. It could serve as a deep-concealment or backup option for specific scenarios.
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Browse more: Rimfire Rifles | Full Shop
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.