RE: If you were buyin cheap a .22 semi auto..
I'd go for a Mark II with the 5-1/2" bull barrel if I was set on a semi-auto. Otherwise, and my personal favorite, I'd look to a Single-Six with 5-1/2" barrel. An added benefit is
the ability to shoot both 22LR, and 22Mag. with the extra cylinder for the revolver.