What he said. All of the Ruger Mark series 22s are nice pistols. Used ones can be found for a good price. I got a 22/45 stainless target model that looked new for $300.
They're a good bet. Easy to take down, priced affordable for the gun you get, comes with an extra mag, backed up by stellar customer service.
I've broken things and had parts lost that S&W has replaced and shipped to me for free, just for asking for them...and it wasn't the fault of the gun.
You really couldn't go wrong with a Ruger or a Smith & Wesson, but someone else will have to chime in about Ruger's customer service. I've shot Rugers, but don't own them...
Good luck in your search and post pics when you get whatever you settle on.
Ruger Mk II 22/45 (polymer frame)
Ruger Mk II (standard steel frame)
Ruger Mk III on the used market (note that Mk II and Mk III mags are NOT interchangeable...)
Beretta Neos
Smith & Wesson 22a
Walther P-22 (used)
The Walther will return serviceable accuracy, the others "should" return better than serviceable accuracy.
Bought a S&W 22A last year because it was $199. on sale new. What a pleasant surprise that was, runs and shoots great on Federal value packs. Pretty accurate and a great plinker.
Ruger .22 auto are great little guns. Easy to find, Good company. Lots of different models to choose from. I do not own a Walther .22 but my friends like and recommend them. Save up alot and buy a S&W model 41, High standard supermatic citation, Or a hamerelli-sp. good luck and let us know what you get.
I had a Beretta Neos. It was a great gun. They're on sale for $229 at GM now. Sold it to a friend as the grip was small for me. But it performed flawlessly and was EASY to take down.
I bought a Browning Buck Mark URX Contour in the classifieds here.
Love it.LOVE IT. LOVE IT!
You can get a Buck Mark Camper for the same price as the entry level Rugers...
In your price range my first choice would be a Ruger. Preferably a MkII. I've owned several and enjoyed them. I currently have a MKIII and would trade it in a heartbeat for another MkII.