[2] The 2-22 was designed to replace the two-place training gliders surplussed at the end of World War II .

[2][3] The end of World War Two resulted in a large number of military training gliders being sold as surplus.

Most of the surplus gliders sold were not ideal trainers for ab initio civilian student flying, as they had high wing loadings and faster stall speeds.

Due to restrictions on the use of aluminum in training aircraft, many surplus gliders had wooden wings, making them unsuitable to be kept outdoors on tie-downs.

The single-spar, constant-chord aluminum structure wings feature spoilers on the top surface only and are covered in aircraft fabric.

The type certificate is currently held by K & L Soaring of Cayuta, New York who now provide all parts and support for the Schweizer line of sailplanes.

These K models will be eligible for an airworthiness certificate when accompanied by an affidavit certifying that the glider is constructed in exact accordance with the approved drawings and manual, and that the parts and materials furnished by the manufacturer in the kit have been used; and further when the following inspections have been satisfactorily passed: (a) An inspection for workmanship, materials, and conformity before any covering is applied.

One 2-22 was flown by Al Parker 200 miles (324 km) to complete a Gold distance and Diamond goal leg.