Just a little weaker then an AR with a 7 1/2" barrel, I imagine! 40 grain vs a 55. 1900 FPS vs 2000 FPS. So much wasted bang with the AR (lot's of fun, though).
Yes, the grip is thick. Has to be. It houses 30 .22magnum rounds.
The trigger is a dream. Feels like it's been worked. NOTHING like keltec's other offerings.
I bought mine for retail 399.00. Came with an extra 30 rd. magazine.
I've never had much trouble finding .22magnum ammunition. It's about as pricey as 9mm tho. (12.99 for 50 JHP)