Sometimes a repair can be as simple as replacing a part. Here’s how I handled repairing a Phoenix Arms HP22.

by Roy Seifert

I had been searching for a small 22 Long Rifle pistol to carry as a backup to my primary everyday carry when I came across a broken Phoenix Arms HP22. The seller disclosed that the hammer would not stay back. Looking at the schematic on the Phoenix Arms web site (Phoenix-Arms.com) I guessed the problem was either the hammer, sear, or sear spring, all of which I could purchase directly from Phoenix Arms. Because I was not the original owner with a warranty card on file, their lifetime warranty would not apply. I could send it back to the factory and have them fix it for a $50 service fee, but what’s the fun of that? I decided to tackle the repair on my own.

First, some background info. Phoenix Arms is located in Ontario, California. They make two very affordable semi-auto pocket pistols, the HP22A in 22 LR, and the HP25A in 25 Automatic Colt Pistol. My gun was the earlier HP22 model that came with a three-inch barrel, but Phoenix Arms also has a five-inch extended barrel available. The grip is small; my little finger hangs off the bottom, but the company offers an extended magazine available with a finger rest. This gun has a varied reputation; some people hate it, but others say it’s one of their favorites. This little gun is quickly becoming one of my favorites.

Disassembly and Inspection…

Read more in the July 2021 issue.

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