Many gun owners started their firearms journey on a .22 LR rifle. Let’s face it; it’s a great starter gun!
Ammo is usually easy to find and fairly affordable, so it’s no surprise that these rifles have long been in the gun safes of many hunters, plinkers, and competitors.
Nearly every manufacturer has one in their inventory, and with so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming. But that’s why you came to us!
.22LR Ammo In Stock
We’re going to run you through some of our favorite .22 LR rifles and break down why we think they deserve some love and attention.
If you’re in the market for a new .22 LR long gun, look no further and keep reading!
Updated with new guns: July 25, 2023.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Starter .22
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Best Youth .22
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Best AR-Style 22
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Best Lever-Action
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Best Mid-Tier 22
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Editor's Pick
Table of Contents
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Why You Should Trust Us
Input into this article came from the PPT editorial team, who has a combined shooting experience of 30+ years and includes instructors and competitors in multiple disciplines.
We’ve spent countless hours researching and analyzing guns and gear to determine which is the best when it comes to features, reliability, ergonomics, and bang for your buck.
We had to make some tough calls. If you don’t see your favorite rifle, it doesn’t mean we hate it, just that we couldn’t include it this time.
Without further ado and in no particular order…
Best .22 LR Rifles Under $500
1. Ruger 10/22
We had to start this list with one of the most iconic .22 LR rifles…the Ruger 10/22.
The Ruger 10/22 is an icon for a reason – many shooters started learning on one of these. These firearms have a reputation for reliability, durability, and a huge aftermarket!
Seriously, these guns can literally grow with you as you evolve as a shooter due to the number of accessories specifically designed around the platform.
Not to mention, there are quite a few models to choose from. If you want a more traditional look, we recommend the 10/22 Sporter. It has a 10-round capacity, a longer 22-inch barrel, and an elegant wood stock for that classic feel.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you want something small and compact that can break down and stow in a pack…we highly recommend the Takedown model.
Available in either an 18.5-inch or 16.12-inch barrel length, it would be great for hikers or campers needing small pest control.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Interested in a more modern vibe?
Check out the Charger, which offers a more pistol-like take on the 10/22 platform. It’s a fun choice for the range and easily stows in your range bag due to its compact size.
You can read our review on it or check out the video below.
The 10/22 gives shooters plenty of options with models and aftermarket support – all while keeping the price around $250-$350. If money is a little tight, then the 10/22 provides the most bang for your buck.
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For more models or some history on the platform, check out our article dedicated to the Ruger 10/22.
2. Savage Rascal
If you’re on the hunt for a youth gun to get your kiddo started, look no further than the Savage Rascal.
This budget-friendly (we’re talking less than $200) .22 LR is the perfect size for youth shooters. The series comes in a variety of gun colors and even left-handed models that will get any kid excited about the range.
Barrel length is around 16 inches, and the gun opts for Savage’s adjustable AccuTrigger system. It sports a bolt-action style with a manual safety to keep things safe.
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Savage does a great job of providing a lightweight and easy-to-maintain long gun that all adds up to a great experience for first-time, younger shooters.
I bought my son his very own red Rascal for Christmas a few years back, and he’s enjoyed plinking on it since.
3. Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport
For a more modern AR style, you might want to check out the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport.
This rifle stands out on our list because it ditches the traditional wood stock for a polymer build that resembles America’s favorite semi-auto rifle.
Though it looks like an AR-15, the M&P15-22 Sport’s polymer design shaves off some weight, bringing it to only 4.8 pounds. This makes it a great training rifle for the range.
It comes with a 25-round proprietary magazine, Magpul MBUS sights, and 6-position stock. Another bonus to the platform is the M-LOK equipped handguard and 2-inch rail up top for mounting additional accessories.
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The price tag is also right, slipping in under $500.
We recommend this model if you want something lightweight and easy to train with at the range.
4. Henry Golden Boy (with honorable mention of the Henry AR-7)
We are big fans of Henry’s rifles around here, mainly because they work and work well.
Henry’s Golden Boy is no exception, as this lever action has gone through several hundred rounds with us at the range with no failures.
Weighing in at 6.75 pounds, it’s a little front-heavy but nothing that you can’t manage with a little time and practice.
While the lever-action is a cool and classic design, there are ways to bring it into a modern era…like with a rail adapter that allows you to mount your favorite optics.
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Overall, the Henry Golden Boy is a fun rifle to take to the range and plink with. We’ve all had a blast with it over the years. You can read more about our experience in our Golden Boy review.
While we’re on the topic of Henry rifles we love, we gotta mention the AR-7 Survival Rifle.
Designed in 1959 by the U.S. Air Force, it’s one of our favorites because of its compact design. Lightweight, at only 3.5 pounds, the AR-7 is a reliable, compact rifle that easily breaks down.
Its parts can be stored in the stock, making it a great option for campers. No tools are required for reassembly either. It’s all pretty easy to put back together.
It comes with two 8-round magazines, and while that’s a slight disadvantage capacity-wise, its ability to easily break down and stow and go makes it worth mentioning.
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You can read more about it in our full review.
Best .22 LR Rifles Over $500
5. Tikka T1x MTR
The Tikka T1x series is a nice mid-tier option for those that still want performance but have a little extra to spend.
Available with either a 16-inch or 20-inch barrel, the T1x MTR also comes in either right-handed or left-handed configurations. We know our Southpaw friends will be happy with that.
Weight sits between 5.7 pounds and 6.2 pounds, depending on the model, with all offering a capacity of 10+1.
The T1x is based on the T3x centerfire design, so if you’ve shot one of those, this will feel very similar. It’s worth mentioning that Tikka went with a stainless-steel bolt, so this gun should hold up well in various environments and weather conditions.
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Its barrel is also a pro to this platform with some added bulk and weight, though they can sometimes be tough to source, so keep that in mind.
Overall, the T1x MTR is a solid .22 LR rifle at a nice mid-tier price point that will leave most serious .22 LR shooters happy.
What do you think of the Tikka? Rate it below!
6. Browning BL-22 FLD, Grade I
Bringing another lever action to the mid-range price point is Browning with the BL-22.
The BL-22 has been around the block, introduced in 1969. Overall, the platform has stayed the same, aside from a few minor changes here and there.
The Grade I model offers a traditional walnut stock with an elegant nickel finish. If you like that more classic look, this definitely has it.
It keeps things simple, though, with no fancy checkering or engraving. If you want all that (and a golden trigger), then step up the Grade II – but keep in mind the price jumps from $879 to over $1,000.
The action is short and smooth, and the trigger adopts an interesting design of moving with the lever instead of staying in place.
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While this isn’t the most modern take on lever actions, it does pair nostalgia with a smooth shooting experience which we can appreciate.
The BL-22 would make a really nice addition to any gun safe or cabinet and a fun little plinker at the range.
Best .22 LR Rifles Over $1,000
7. Bergara B-14R
We’re moving up in price, but with that elevation in cost, you continue to get nice features. Our next stop is the Bergara B-14R.
The B14-R isn’t the cheapest option on the table, but its features, paired with its performance, will not leave you disappointed. If you have the money to spare, we highly recommend this model.
Not only does the B14 chassis feel great while shooting, but the stock/chassis allows for length of pull adjustments as well as cheek rest adjustment – that’s handy to ensure you get the best fit. The trigger is also user-adjustable.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Another bonus is that the stock/chassis is a standard Remington 700 chassis, opening the door to even more aftermarket products.
Let’s talk performance. We put nearly 2,000 rounds through it and didn’t have a single problem. Accuracy-wise, it is phenomenal.
Though we tested it with a bunch of ammo, we found that Lapua Center-X and SK Rifle Match performed the best, easily managing sub-MOA.
We have a review on the B-14R if you want to learn more!
8. Anschutz 1710
If you plan to compete in NRL or PRS style matches or just one of the best .22 LR rifles on the market, then Anschutz is worth a look.
The 1710 Competition series platform is geared towards the serious shooter with serious cash…seriously, it starts at $2,995.
There are a handful of models to choose from, including the 1710 Competition Classic, which brings a traditional Walnut stock and bolt-action design, topped off with a 20-inch stainless steel heavy barrel.
Other notable features include a 5119 Two Stage Trigger, an optimized match chamber, and a weight of just over 7 pounds. This is the less expensive of the Competition series at $2,995.
But if you need your rifle to do some serious heavy lifting, check out the 1710 Competition MDT ACC Chassis. This newer model comes in four colors: Flat Dark Earth, Carbon Gray, and O.D. Green, and Crimson Red.
The gun weighs slightly over 10 pounds with a 20-inch stainless steel heavy barrel and blued receiver. It, too, sports the 5119 Two-Stage Trigger.
What’s neat about this model is that it’s designed to be modular and allow the user to balance its mass the way they want to ensure the best performance in competition.
This one is best for those seriously into NRL and PRS shooting. At $3,995, it may be a tough pill to swallow for some, but if you want the best and can pay for it, we’d suggest this one.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Final Thoughts
.22 LR is a fun caliber with a lot of support in the gun industry.
Whether you’re looking for a budget .22 LR to start your kid on or a competition rifle to take you to the next level, we hope our list has given you a good starting point.
What’s your favorite .22 LR rifle? Let us know in the comments below. If precision shooting is more your style, we have more recommendations in the Best .22 LR Precision Rifles, and if you need to stock some rounds check out some of our Favorite .22 LR Ammo.
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I don’t know how many thousands of rounds I have run through my Rem Nylon 66 Mohawk Brown. I clean the barrel but to my shame have never cleaned the action, but it is like the Energizer Bunny it just keeps going and going! I love that gun!…..But I have a 10-22 that I did a Volquartsen trigger upgrade on and it shoots lights out! I am glad I don’t have to choose between the two since I have them both.
I bought my green Nylon 66 around 1958 when I was 14. I'm 80 now. I had to return it because the receiver section cracked, but the replacement is still functioning. It has had a tough life, being abused and orphaned when I joined the USMC, but lives with me in retirement.
Thank you for your service
My marlin model 60 with a KAT trigger. Love it. Shoots any kind of lr with ½ moa at 50 and 1 moa at 100 yds keep it clean and no misfeeds ftf or fte. I’ll never part with it.
Marlin/Glenfield Bolt Action with 7 rnd mag. Winchester 190 semi auto with 4x weaver.
Inexpensive Savage Mark 4 with CCI Mini mags hp is a very accurate
Nylon 66, Browning A22, Henry .22 Large Loop Lever & AR-7, 2-10-22s, Hopkins & Allen Falling Block .22, S&R "Ted Williams" .22, Marlin Mod. 60, Rossi .22 pump take down. I gained a fascination/ obsession with "Gallery Guns."
Since you asked, my all time favorite .22 rifle is the Winchester 9422 that I purchased in 1972 and still have fun with. Other .22's in my safe, 10/22 Takedown, Nylon 77 and a Savage 62.
Of the ones that you reviewed, we own 2 or 3 10/22's, a Browning BL-22 Grade 2 (bought new in 1978), a Savage Rascal, the Henry lever action, and an S&W M&P 15-22 Sport (belonged to my wife before we got married). And I owned an Anschutz 1710, with wood stock, for a while.
When my children were young (back in the 80's), I bought a Chipmunk single-shot .22 for them to learn on. Bought a Savage Rascal last year for my grandchildren to learn on. The Savage is a MUCH better rifle than the Chipmunk. Was glad to see it on your list.
I love my Browning BL-22 and have killed mountains of squirrels and rabbits with it, as well as lots of varmints around the house using the CCI CB Long cartridges (shoots them quieter than my pellet rifle). It wears one of the really nice, old Redfield 3/4" tube 4x rimfire scopes that I bought back in the late 60's or early 70's. However, when I'm going to do some plinking, I grab the Henry. Mine is their "Evil Roy" model and it is just plain fun. It's actually got a smoother action and better trigger than the BL-22. I installed a Williams aperture rear sight and green fiber-optic front sight, and out to about 40 yards it's very nearly as effective on varmints and tree rats (squirrels) as the BL-22 using the same ammo.
My wife owns an S&W M&P 15-22 Sport and I own a Tippmann M4-22 Redline, both AR-style .22 semi-auto rifles. However, the Tippmann has aluminum upper and lower receivers (like a real M4 AR), whereas the S&W is polymer. The Tippmann costs about $125 more than the S&W, and the spare Tippmann mags are a little more expensive and harder to find. However, the S&W performs amazingly well next to the Tippmann. It's a little harder to clean than the Tippmann (which strips down just like a M4 AR) and you have to be somewhat more careful what solvents you use on the S&W (especially ones like my wife's that has the dipped camo finish). Long-term, over tens of thousands of rounds, I'm not sure how the S&W will hold up compared to the Tippmann, but for right now, it's doing great.
I used to own an Anschutz 1710 with wood stock, but then I bought a CZ 455 switch-barrel rifle. With the .22 LR barrel, the CZ would handily outshoot the Anschutz, hence, the Anschutz was sold. The only negative I have about the CZ 455 is that I've never been able to get the .17 HMR barrel to shoot nearly as good as the .22 LR barrel.
The one rifle on your list that I would NOT have included is the Henry AR-7. Up until this past November, I worked part-time in a local gun store and we sold the AR-7. It was a great disappointment to me, especially compared to the rest of the Henry rifles we sold. I consider them to be absolute junk. Most of the ones that we received had something wrong with them right out of the box. And all of them have very flimsy build quality. For example, the sights on all of them are absolutely terrible and most come from the factory horribly out of alignment and require work to make them usable. If you want an AR-7 type of rifle, find an older one made by somebody other than Henry.
CZ bolt action .22s 452/455 etc are fantastic practical rifles. I have several on your list including the 10/22 (several), Anschutz, and Henry, and have used the others. I’d take the CZ first most of the time. They really hit a sweet spot for value, quality, weight, and accuracy. The longer barreled iron sighted guns with range adjustable sights enables more expert riflemen to make 1st round hits on small at range.
Did I miss the Voodoo
Best ever my Winchester 9422.
A lot of what about comments, and many of those mentioned are exceptional guns. Most are no longer in production, so they're not a gun someone can walk into their LGS and buy. A number of the manufacturers are no longer in business as well.
So the author has stuck with guns that are still being produced.
Olympic Grade Match Guns are excellent, but they're not typically found on the wall of most gun stores, and they are typically very expensive. They are also very specific and specialized to their purpose, Match Shooting. Sure, you can plink tin cans with them, but I know I wouldn't take a $4K Hammerelli or Anschutz to lay in the brush and pop prairie dogs
When it comes to .22s, it would be difficult to cover even the sampling the author presents here. Articles looking at the Best of the Semi-Automatic 22's, Best Bolt Actions, Best Lever, Pump Single Shots, and Precision Targets would allow the author more specificity and listing of models specific to the action.
So what the author has written is a "Best of" across types of 22s currently on the market. That's not an easy task as we see from all our comments. It's what her Editor asked of her, and likely limited to the space she was alloted for her article.
Face it Ladies and Gentlemen, were she to write an article covering each of just the current production .22s across all the different actions and specific purpose guns, her article would be a magazine all on its own, and a pretty thick magazine at that.
So Good Job Jackie, I know I give you a ribbing now and then, but thank you for an enjoyable read.
Some nice guns on the list. I love my 10/22 Heavy Target. But just for the fun of plinking and casual range fun I saw nothing here that beats out my HK MP5 A5. With its SIG Romeo 7 RDS and 50rd drum mag it's hard to put down.
I would put my CZ 457 against any 22 caliber in the 1000.00 dollar range to shoot against. I beleave this is one of the very best 22s on the market. CZ makes a really great weapon. And with a match-grade barrel on it its that much better. Also it likes Feds 1200 fps it seems like a really good combination with this rifle. Although ome barrels may like something different. Appy shooting Thanks
I love my Ruger 10/22's. So fun to shoot, and like Glocks, there is a plethora of aftermarket items out there. I tend to get carried away with extras, but to me, working on and upgrading my guns is half the fun! However, I absolutely LOVE the Henry Golden Boy series of guns, and if I could justify another 22 (I think I have 3 rifles and 3 pistols), that would be the one! Great review!
My folks bought me a 10/22 in 1978. It's been enjoyed by three generations now.
I recently purchased a Ruger American in .22 WMR. Just added a scope and I'm getting quarter size groups at 50 yds. Probably should get at least honorable mention
No CZ 512? Very surprising. Maybe you’ve never shot one!
Hi Jacki. Just want to remind you that a fantastic choice for a 22 is the Tactical Solutions X ring VR. It is the Cadillac of Ruger 10/22’s, from Boise, Idaho. Super high quality for those who appreciate that.
Honorable mention for the Marlin Model 60 Glenfield. It was the go to before the 10/22.
Probably left off because they ceased production in 2020. Ruger purchased the Mod 60 along with other Remington assets, but as of Jan 2022, there was no plans to reintroduce the rifle.
Damn shame, because it was a really good alternative to the 10/22 and cost less. I still have my 1965 era gun, though it needs the extractor replaced/rebuilt. After nearly 60 years of use, the extractor's worn enough that its not catching the rim.
I agree with you. The Glenfields have riddled countless tin cans.
Another one that was great but production ceased a while ago, was the Remington Nylon 66.
Lost mine to theft 15 years ago. I still watch the Pawn Shops hoping to catch one.
Chuck is right. I tried to keep my rec's limited to things in production and readily available. But I love a good Marlin! Some of my fondest memories are plinking with my dad's.
Ditto
Why would you not add the CZ 457 ? One of the best out there !
I came here to say exactly this. From entry level to high end, the 457 rifle is a very accurate and very reliable rimfire bolt action platform.
The 457 is a great one! I can't name every gun I like because we'd be here for a while. I had to make cuts somewhere but trust me; it pained me to leave that one off.
This article could use some more "meat", especially on the budget end of the spectrum. Which is where most of the shooters are at, especially with .22LR.
Mossberg/Rossi .22LR in semi-auto, pump, and bolt action.
I don't disagree that there could have been more recommendations, but I was trying to keep things concise. We do update these periodically, though, and swap models in and out. So there's always a chance for things to be added. Thanks for reading!
Good choices. Honorable mention should go to the H & K 416
I’m glad that you included Henry in the review. Have you ever shot a Tippmann Arms? Awesome firearm company with great customer service and support for the 2A community…
I have and I enjoyed it! I just had to make some painful choices when writing this.
Loved your article, my favorite 22 is a Browning grade 2 BLR which I bought in 1972 for $100 brand new. A lot my kids, grandkids and family have gotten started shooting with this gun.
Why didn’t you show the new CZ .22?
I agree! I urge that the CZ .22 rifle be considered the next time you folks write about “ best” .22 rifles! I own several and have taught more than 50 kids how to shoot with these. I also have other guns mentioned in this article, but when it came to shooting ACCURACY ( a preliminary for youngsters to learn who want to hunt) I ALWAYS use my CZ’s. I use Federal 711B ammo as all of my CZ’s love this round for accuracy. I have scoped and non scoped CZ .22’s and I can teach hold, breathing techniques, trigger pull and other long distance shooting techniques for accuracy at 50-100 yards. Then I move youngsters up to .223.
Can’t beat the CZ .22 for value, excellent accuracy and a fun shooter! Please consider including them next time!
Let's pull back and have some caveat about what the word 'best' really means. If your goal was to limit yourself to five .22's under $1,000, then say that. Perhaps someone reading this article takes your best seriously. They they would never hear of a competition-level Anshcutz or a Vudoo, both of which are consistently sub-MOA.
Best is subjective, for sure. We're actually in the process of updating some of these articles with newer picks so keep a look out!
Not trying to be difficult here Jacki. I assume Pew Pew has a good following; I always enjoy the articles. I’m an older bench shooter with the $$ to buy a fantastic .22, so I have the Vudoo, and only run Lapua Center X. Not for everyone and the MBT chassis is heavy. Still, amazingly accurate.
I appreciate the feedback! I love reading our readers' thoughts because sometimes y'all introduce me to things I didn't consider. So keep the comments coming!
Hello. I am very surprised that a pump action 22 caliber was not mentioned. The pump action “gallery” rifle was at the county fair shooting galleries across the country. I own one manufacturer by Rossie and it is most favorite plinked in my 22 caliber collection. Yes bolt action single shot rifles are the best training rifle for safety and safe firearms education. That being said; thank you for your article and words of wisdom.
I’ve got a Marlin Model 60 that can drive tacks.
Why is this one not mentioned ? It’s done it’s job for me for over 40 years.
Because it's no longer in production (ended in 2020).
I agree, the Marlin Glenfield is a gr eat gun, and capable of exceptional accuracy.
Ruger bought the model 60 and 70 from Remington, but as of 2022, has no plans to reintroduce it. A real shame.
The Henry AR-7 is by all accounts a huge improvement over earlier versions which suffered terrible reliability.
But I'm curious if you tested the "waterproof" claim, or the "it floats" claim, or simply reproduced Henry's ad copy?
The only articles I've read that actually tested this found that the rifle with components stored in the stock floated a few seconds and then sank. The seal of the stock seems to be "water resistant" at best.
Without the Ruger77/22 this is incomplete.
How about the H&R .22 Leatherneck. The model 58C was used by the US Marines s a target range rifle from 1944 to 1946. The stock was modeled after the M1 Garand. The model 65 called “The General” was the civilian version of the 58C. It was built from 44’ to 46’ while the 58C was in use by the USMC. There were a few others models it these two stand out for me because my ex’s grandfather, a good man, was a WWII vet and owned the model 65 General. He served in Pattons 3rd Army and fought in “The Battle of the Bulge” at the Ardennes Forest in Belgium. He talked about e 58C and what a great shooter it was, always followed that up with “and the General was no slouch”. He was right, The General was no slouch , I shot it many many times. My youngest son inherited that old rifle when he passed away. He loves it and last I saw it was taking great care of it. RIP Glenn! We love and miss you!
Because most are no longer in production. I agree, there was a kickbutt selection of .22s back in the day. Many of them capable of exceptional precision. Sadly, many are just not made anymore. I always check the Pawn Shops in my area looking for deals on old .22s. Used to hit up yard/estate sales too, until my State passed legislation requiring all sales must go through an FFL.
I’m a little surprised that the 10/22 made this list over he Precision Rimfire from Ruger. I own both and the precision is a more accurate rifle. The 10/22 is a good rifle with lots of accessories available. But it’s a little overrated for its accuracy. The one I have is the stainless steel with laminated Manlicher stock. It’s beautiful, dependable, tough and pretty accurate but the precision is more accurate at 50 and 100 yds. Love both of them but I’m partial to the CZ 457 American for accuracy. The CZ rifles I own In small calibers are very accurate. I hunted deer last year with a 455 Trainer Rifle with 24.8” barrel chambered in .17 HMR. Filled all 6 of my tags And fired 6 well placed rounds. All 6 were clean kills, two took 2 or 3 steps after shot and the other 4 dropped where they stood. Didn’t mean to go on a tangent fellas, sorry. So yeah the CZ 457 is my pick.
I love my Rossi semi auto it's accurate and a really fun rifle to shoot, cost under 200.00
i love my savage 64
Anschutz 1710 is beautiful, accurate and a ton of fun for bolt action target shooting. I also enjoy the old gallery guns in pump action. Either the Winchester or the Remington model 12, but they are expensive. The 10/22 takedown is also my favorite for semi auto. Finally, a Marlin 22 lever action to complete my favorites.
Ever heard of a brand by the name of Anschutz? Won a few Olympic medals over the years....
Finally, I own the most expensive weapon on the list! The Browning is well worth it. Acquired from the estate of a friend's grandfather, made in 1958. Still going strong. My wife's first shot with it took a squirrel at 40 yards.
I own 2 of the Ruger 10/22 takedown rifles with the backpack style carry case.
They are both fun to shoot and very reliable. Both have threaded barrels and I keep a suppressor in the cases of each of them.
They readily accept the Ruger 25 round magazines. So I keep several of those in both bags. There is also plenty of room in the bag to keep boxes of extra ammo. I prefer the CCI 100 rounds plastic ones. I usually have 1 each of their Mini Mags and the sub-sonic.
These are a great setup for grab N go or to store securely for easy access.
Tikka T1X... 'nuf said.
Yes sir, mine is in a krg chassis and it will shoot thumb size groups at 50 yards love mine. I also have 2 10/22, and a henry, but my tikka is the bomb.
Can’t understand why Marlin Golden 39A wasn’t included ? I’ve had mine 40 years and can still pop squirrels at 50 yards plus …
Probably because they are no longer being made, so you can't buy a new one. Love mine which was manufactured in the mid-60s.
Megan, you failed to mention really good 22LR rifles. Your list is amateurish and provides only main stream information that requires only arm chair research. Next time look at a few more websites and include rifles used in competition such as CZ457, Bergara B14R, and Vudoo 360. And go experience it for yourself.
I would add the Anschutz rifles to your excellent list.
We're in the process of updating some of these articles, so hang tight and we'll have newer recommendations. Thanks!
My lever action Marlin Golden 39A my parents bought for me 60 years ago still looks great and is still accurate and fun to shoot.
I inherited my Dad's 39A. To my knowledge it has not been fired in my lifetime. I need to do something about that.
I inherited my dad’s 39A as well. However, mine does get fired on occasion. What a beautiful rifle.
I had an old Ruger 10/22 that jammed every few shots, and even a 2 week long stay at the gunsmith didn't help. I replaced it with a Thompson/Center TCR22 and it's been great. They include all the nice mods you would want: fiber optic sight, improved mag release, magpul furniture. Maybe consider an article on the best 10/22 clones.
i got 3 22 lr rifels savage 64 ,10/22 take down ,henry ar7 2 22 lr pistols gsg 1911 ruger sr22 love them all
Any collection of carbines should include the outstanding Sig 522 Classic
It’s 5
Great gun, but no longer made. Also, finding parts to fix them is nearly impossible unless you buy a donor rifle.
Recently we got my wife a Savage Mark II Minimalist with a vortex scope, I loved it so much I went back 2 weeks later and got one for myself in green laminated wood for $329ish. Excellent, accurate rifle.
I also have a Henry Classic H001 lever action and she has the MP15 22. All excellent rifles, lots of fun. Great list, might have to get one or two on it.
Literally picking up green minimalist today! Good to hear!
Biden 2024
No
Please if there IS a god, no...
Is there no place they won’t find us?! Hey that post is from sept. 22’, maybe he’s changed his mind since...........................yeah probably not!
I've got a 40yr old 10/22 scoped that still shoots a dime at 50yds and I just built a new 10/22 with the Arch Angel stock and carbon fiber bull barrel with a 2moa red dot that is on the money, Next is going to be the Henry AR-7 for backpacking. Also have a Ruger Mark II government pistol and a Ruger 22/45 stainless with 6-1/2" bull barrel both are deadly accurate.
Love the Mark series pistols from Ruger. Superbly accurate pistols. I have a mark III 7.5” stainless hunter model with the thumb rest grip . Also have a S&W Victory with 5.5” and a Browning Buckmark 7.5” hunter. All 3 are exceptional And a blast to shoot but the mark III Is my favorite.
Mark's one of them forward thinkers gonna save the planet by eating GMO mass produced Monsanto saturated veggies and spare all the critters by letting them overpopulate and starve to death while they devestate his precious vegetable gardens on over tilled land that's destroyed the eco system "God" created.
The Remington Nylon 66 is a great survival .22 rifle. On the other hand Denny Crane, a trained Marine sniper favors the Henry AR-7.
I do not think you should be teaching people that it is alright to be killing prairie dogs, rabbits and squirrels. Not good killing little animals. I think killing paper targets or something like that is a good way to teach children all animals have a purpose here. God Bless.
What you think Mark does not apply to many shooters. You stick with paper and those who shoot varmit pests can carry on. How about you keep “woke” on your range.
Rabbits and other small animals fill our freezer. Paper and cans are for practice
See your way out of the conversation
What about rats? Is it okay to do rats? Squirrels are tree rats. Very destructive creatures. And bunnies. Well, hopefully the hawks help keep their population under control, but they are also good eating. And seriously, it is not a bad thing to learn to shoot a small, quickly moving target. Somehow I do not think the skills learned at the range or even dry fire with laser rounds are equivalent to actual ammo fire and live, moving target
I agree not every critter needs to be destroyed just for being a critter. That’s how serial killers and other psychopaths get their start. Respect life! That said, there’s nothing wrong with hunting or dispatching vermin when necessary. Most people don’t even know what “woke” means. Knuckle-dragging mouth breathers just being brainwashed by conservative media.
I have 3 22LR rifles: 1) Winchester model 61 2) CZ 452 3) Henry AR7. I keep the Henry in my car. The Winchester was given to my wife by her father. He acquired it from a hotel that had a shooting gallery in the basement. I had to replace the cartridge cutoff block because the the many thousands of rounds fired had worn the bore in the block so much that the rim of a cartridge would pass by the cutoff lever. Load the magazine and cycle the action & every cartridge in the magazine except for the one picked up by the elevator would come out the bottom of the receiver. I replaced the worn parts & had to hand fit the cartridge cutoff lever. This included filling the tab that rides in a slot in the receiver. Installing the lever, reassembling the rifle, loading the magazine and cycling the action. If it jammed I disassembled then repeated the filing, etc. until it cycled smoothly. The CZ 452 is my silhouette rifle. It is a tack driver equivalent to Winchester & Remington rifles costing twice as much. The CZ 455 is an upgraded version of the CZ 452.
My only experience with the Marlin model 60 was fixing my brother in law's rifle that jammed. I traced the issue to the piano wire ejector that was bent. How that happened he didn't know. Using wire for the ejector is my only grip about the model 60.
My H&K 416 .22. But I love my Remington Octagon .22 Model 61 from my Dad & the Old Reliable .10/22.
I have a Ruger 10/22 rifle, a Ruger 10/22 Takedown, along with a Henry AR7 and a Henry Golden Boy and my favorite as the Henry AR 7. I don't know if it is the weight or what but just absolutely love it. My 2nd choice would be the Golden Boy.
I have had my 22 ruger for 4 years and it has never failed me it such a fun and reliable gun I would definitely recommend one to anyone that wants a fun accurate reliable gun
I have a Marlin model 60, a Henry model H001, a Winchester Model 190 and several Ruger 10/22 all fine and fun shooting rifles.
You dorks list the 10/22 charger TWICE in the same list!!! Durrrr, wtf???!!!
I've got to say, I've been impressed with my CMMG Bravo .22LR Adaptor for the AR 15. It functions flawlessly, has acceptable accuracy, and as I have cut back on the guns I own, it frees up space in my safe.
I grew up with an old Remington Nylon 66 my dad bought for me in 68' or 69,' Lost that gun and several others in a house fire in the 90s, but it was a fun shooting little gun.
I also have the Bravo .22lr conversion I change out between my AR15 long and short barreled ARs I have. Ironically to your post, once had the opportunity as a teen to shoot my 1st. rifle was a Remington 66. Thinking back I didn't what the rifle was only to remember it had white diamonds on it. So I did a search to learn that it was a Remington 66. What a sweet shooter!
A friend of mine use archery shafts (damaged and too short to make arrows) to speed load his tubular magazine(s). Put a permanent plug in one end and a removable plug in the other, put the right quantity of cartridges for one reload in bullet first so they can be dumped down the magazine tube rim first with the follower taken totally out of the tube. A cheap children's quiver can hold a lot of quick reloads. Note: take the magazine follower out somewhere it might not be retrievable if you drop it.
Good old Model 74 from 1950
Best 22 cal semi auto rifle that I ever shot was a Remington Speed Master Model 552. Bought new around 1975 but recently stolen during a break-in at our farm. Extremely accurate and durable even after probably 10,000 rounds shot. Unfortunately Remington is bankrupt and this model is no longer made.
I love the old Cooey model 60's and 64's. Deadly accurate and we'll built.
The best 22 rifle is the Tactical Solutions X ring VR. This is a hugely upgraded Ruger 10/22. Fantastic!
How about the Sig 522 or the GSG STG 44!
My grandfather's (now mine) Remington speedmaster. I recently picked up Rossi RS 22.
Just for the aftermarket I like the Ruger 10/22. It's the most customizable rifle in the list.
The rifle on the list I would change is the Henry golden boy, and replace it with the plain jane Henry...why pay more to have the same thing...? our's has been flawless since we got it, and when we inevitably scuff it up it won't hurt our feelings...we also have a similar Rossi, which might be a smidgen more accurate, but that is small potatos...
I have Golden boy, it's beautiful . That's why I paid more .
Way back when I was a teenager, I had a Winchester model 190 with a cheap 4x scope. It was a blast for plinking at the river. After that, I didn't own a .22 for 40+ yrs. A couple of years ago I bought a Thompson T/CR22 with thumbhole stock. I have to have a pistol style grip due to a wrist fusion. Really like this rifle. Put a SigSauer 3-9x40 scope on, and I like how the Thompson mags hold the bolt open after last round fired. It will also accept Ruger mags but they don't hold the bolt back.
Also enjoy the info on this site.
I own a Golden Boy and that thing is super fun to shoot!
The Golden Boy is a classic.
I know I will probably take some heat over this addition to favorite the 22 LR list. I recently purchased 2 Savage Model 64 semi auto rifles. You can buy these for less than $150 and can be found in a variety of stock options. Mine are black polymer stocks, nothing fancy but also cheap enough to experiment with camo paint. Reviews you will read on this model you will likely find saying how bad they are. Complaints are anywhere from misfires to being inaccurate and having a bad trigger pull. This easily solved with replacing the sping with a lighter one from your local hardware store, huge upgrade for a couple of bucks. We have shot hundreds of rounds in every variety of brand and round or hollow point with no problems.
The 2 I have are solid shooters and accurate with inexpensive red dot optics. You do have to add a picatinny rail to do this, mine slid on the dovetail. The iron sights on them though may leave something to be desired. While one was fine the other we couldn't get it zeroed in to where we wanted it. My son's rifle on a 50 yard range was a tack driver. He kept making comments he didn't see where his last shots were going. When checking the target they were hitting previous shots in the 3 shot groups. Now me on the other hand shooting the same rifle my groups were 3/4 to an inch at the same distance. As always it comes down to who's shooting it. But the Savage 64 should not be overlooked especially considering the price at less than $150.
I have a Model 64 myself, and I agree they are excellent shooters, and an unbeatable value! Very accurate out of the box (actually better than either of my 10/22 rifles), and they feed reliably as well. Biggest complaint is that I don't like working the action, which takes a bit of finger strength and dexterity, and recommend an extended bolt release to make it easier. But the bottom line is that it shoots great and doesn't cost much. Perfect rabbit/squirrel gun.
The best .22 in my opinion is the Marlin 39A...and I own 3 of the 6 above.
Not for nothing but a Ruger takedown hasn’t been $350 for about 5 years. Even clicking that link, it takes you to the website where it’s listed for $439.
Savage Mark II heavy fluted barrel should be on the list. IMO
Cannot argue with any of these. There's nothing like a .22LR rifle for if no other reason than to say you own one. I've got an old scoped Rem 550-2 and 2 AR-7s. So much fun I'm constantly on the lookout for the grumpy police to say I'm having far too much fun.
Having owned 4 of the 6 rifles, I can say this article is spot on. The Marlin 60 was my first .22, great gun but a pain to disassemble, clean and reassemble, especially compare to the Ruger 10/22! Love the AR7 and my M&P-22 eats almost everything as long as it does not get super dirty and gunked up.
i own 9 22 rifles, one of my favs is the 22 L/R henry, oxtegon barrel EvilRoy, edition.
Vudoo V-22. Bolt action. 1 m.o.a. out to 100 yards all day w/ match ammo
The Browning is awesome gun. Uncommon.
I'm surprised it shows on a list like this. Old used ones run twice the price of new. I'm using mine in Steel Challenge with good success. While I can't nudge the top two or three overall shooters out of place yet, I'm on their heels. On one quick stage; Smoke and Hope, I was first though. How cool is it that it was designed by Browning in 1914 - the same year he designed the 50BMG
How about less expensive .22 rifles, such as the Mossberg 802. It does not have all the bells and whistles but it is a nice one
Have marlin 989 but cannot find magazines
I have a model 981 T marlin. I really like this rifle. but i wish it were a semi automatic with tube magazine. my 981T is bolt action with a Tasco scope and it has a tube magazine,cant imagine owning any other rifle that i would enjoy shooting more than the Marlin.
My favorite 22 rifle is my own AR-15 using the CMMG Bravo conversion bolt assembly. Lot's of cheap training rounds sent downrange using exactly the same stock, trigger, and optics platform. With the CMMG Bravo, I've actually increased my the number of practice rounds during the ammo shortage. It's like having obtained an extra AR for $200.
The rifles you have chosen are all good and except for the Browning, have all been compared to the Lithgow Arms LA101, by a number of reviewers. The rifle speaks for itself. All the rifles above are the usual easy (lazy) pick without having to look too far. Try one,then compare to the others. It will easily make your list.
Lost me on ".22LR ammunition is affordable and easy to find".
Luckygunner.com
Marlin went out of business and stopped filling orders. Ruger bought them but has not started production.
remington now owns marlin and is still mfg. them.
Ruger bought marlin
Ruger bought Marlin . Remington as it was went kaputz .
Marlin is now owned by Ruger
Remington went kaputz
The cz 455 is cool the you could buy in .22 Lr then buy other calibers like.22wmr or the .17hmr I always liked the cz 457in 17hornet any way liked your article take care
I have an AR7, love it.
I think the Browning is a classy, beautiful, effective and accurate. It's my next acquisition, preferably an older, Belgian model, to match my BAR .30-06 and A5 shotgun.
I have 22–A 270BAR–sweet 16. All Browning. Love them all. Got them when I was 16. I’m 77. Wouldn’t get rid of any of them.
Hope you the best on your looking.
Hey that CZ455 it a beautiful gun.I had my way with one at the local gun shop but only had 300bucks in my pocket so couldnt grab it. But i went home and looked online and found a clone of this one i believe? Its a Hatsan and looks a lot like this one.In any case it is a CZ clone by Hatsan and a beautiful gun. I purchased it online from PSA for about 213.99.....it didnt have any spare barrels but did come with two steel 10rd mags.....that i was shocked about i have heard of only cheap plastic mags ,coming with it so i feel lucky.Although once again i havnt fired it yet or even have it at home. In my state of New Jersey the bluest of all they wont even allow a bolt gun to have a Brake which it came with. It didnt mention that in the ad and no pics in the add had one on it...? So in any case as soon as i get the new comp for it in a few days i can take it to my FFL have them put it on and most likely tap and pin it on ......:>/ I pray i can get out of this state ASAP!
Nice selection. However, my policy / position is that a first time shooter should start with a single shot bolt action. This will (1) greatly reduce the chance for an unintentional discharge as is very easy with a semi auto and (2) help train the new shooter to always keep the muzzle pointed up and down range since reloading is required between shots. When reloading the weapon for the next shot it is very easy to forget muzzle control. Since the weapon is empty the instructor has time to explain and correct any unsafe acts.
Concur. I recently purchased a Cricket Precision for my grand-daughter. I appreciate the safety factor while still being able to instruct solid shooting skills. And it's a great little rifle.
Agreed. I've been teaching my special needs daughter how to shoot. She's been learning on a Daisy 880. She's really enjoying it, so at some point I'll let her try our 22 pistol. I'll load the mag a round at a time for the very reasons you listed.
I agree with your concept but it's easy enough to load only 1 round into a magazine when new shooters are getting started and increase the number of rounds as their skill improves.
I'll stick with my Marlin 70 Papoose thank you.
Absolutely love my older 15-22 great gun easy to train your kiddos with.
My favorite is still a .22LR Ted Williams (purchased from Sears) that was my fathers/grandfathers. I have plinked and hunted small game with it for 40+ years and it was used rabbit hunting well before my time. I taught my kids to shoot with it as well. It's rock solid and if I miss, it's not the gun. Take care of your tools and they'll take care of you!
I have one as welland love it but the trigger on mine is so stiff now I can barely pull it. Do you have any advice??
Looking for ammo for Italian Carcano carbine M91. Any help?
You're off by a couple of decades on the change of magazine size in the Marlin Model 60. It was 17+1 until 1989 or 1990, when it was reduced to 14+1. I bought mine new in 1990, and it is 17+1. They added the last shot bolt hold-open in 1985, so if you buy one made in that 4-5 year period, you'll get the 18-round capacity and have the bolt hold-open function.
Browning BL22.
I have been purchasing the new Thompson 22 that is very similar to the Ruger. These guns are lower cost and come with much better components. I have 2 normal ones and 1 bull barrel with wood thumbhole stock and I am actually using this one in competition. Considering it is probably $1000 cheaper than the other 22's I'm up against, I have no complaints. Switched out the trigger assembly and cleaned up the stock under the barrel and now it shoots absolutely lights out!! Couldn't be happier!
Of all my rifles and pistols in varios calibers and styles, .22 lr is and has always been my favorite.
A retailer near me had a Rossi semi auto on sale for $89 (the price of nice dinner and drinks)...so of course I signed up. Whats really awesome is that in WA state its considered an assault weapon, so there's a redundant record check and an arbitrary waiting period that's taken over two weeks to pass. All the tin cans and plastic bottles in my back yard are super relieved that Ive had my cool down period and that they have been saved...or have they?
My uncle's browning was the first rifle i ever shot and remains my favorite...such a solid compact precise thing with a great trigger and a very slick little action. Definitely will get one of my own.
Least favorite was an 80's era AR7. There was a famous DJ of the same era, Jam Master J. The AR7 should have been similarly named.
I'll take my Winchester model 190 .22 I bought in 1968. Dead accurate, easy to load and very reliable. Just have to remember or warn anyone on the right, as it ejects from that side.
I have a 270 bought about the same time and still love it.
Hi, I have a doubt. Dry firing damage the Marlin 60? Nobody say: YES or NO. The manual of Marlin 60 do not mentioned the issue. The manual of Ruger 10/22 say: no problem.
The Thompson/Center TCR 22 is a fantastic rifle. They took the Ruger 10/22 and did all the basic mods you wanted done to it: magpul stock, easy mag release, bolt hold open, fiber optic front sight, rails. I love it.
My mom bought my dad a Marlin Model 60 for their first anniversary in 1970. I inherited it when my dad passed away in 2006. Prior to that, I had a Marlin Pappoose, basically what you would get if you crossed a Model 60 with the Ruger 10/22 Takedown. Both Marlins have been excellent guns, being both accurate and reliable.
My experience with the AR-7, however, is not so great. My brother bought one around the same time I bought my Pappose, and to be honest, I wasn't terribly impressed with it -- and I really wanted to be, as I had admired the design since I was a kid. His AR-7 jammed frequently and wasn't consistent with shot placement. To be fair, I believe several manufacturers have made the AR-7 over the years, and some have been better than others. Therefore, my brother's AR-7 might not be representative of the Henry AR-7.
Agree these are the best reasonably-priced 22LR rifles. But have you tried or tested any of the more expensive/custom 22s out there? I have fired a Kidd 22 (a Ruger 10/22 design) with their custom 2-stage trigger and there really is a big difference. A big difference in price, too.
The best .22 rifle of all time - the Marlin 39A. Just sayin’.
My little Cooey 39 is still picking off center group targets after 60 years. What a great Christmas present that was...kind of like Ralphy !
I have the MOSS-BERG 715T. It is accurate and trouble free. In my area it is $100 cheaper than the S&W MP 15-22. I recommend the 715T over S&W, if you desire a tactical look. Comes with 4 rails, and the side one's and bottom rail are removable.
I just got a Henry "Evil Roy" heirloom octagon barrel 22 and I could not be happier.
Have not had the opportunity to shoot a GB, but the 9422xtr is my lever action of choice. I have several Marlin 60's and 10/22s but my favorite is the Marlin 795 appleseed. Not many mods available, but out of the box best, most accurate shooter of the bunch and has mag capacity similar to the 10/22
Evidently this article was written before the Winchester Wildcat came out. It in a league of it's own. Light weight, accurate and a breeze to clean.
Browning BL-22 deserves attention, as the easiest way to experience the short, snappy lever throw and moving trigger that differentiates Browning's BLRs from Henry and etc levers.
I can't believe you ranked the Marlin 60 ahead of the Ruger 10/22. I've owned both of them, the 10/22 wins hands down. For reliability, ease of maintenance, upgrade ability, accuracy, you can't beat the 10/22
The list is not in order of rank, just in order of presentation :D
Marlin 60 is hands down a better gun than the 10/22. I have both as well. Ruger has a terrible trigger as is super picky on ammo.
Love the Browning have owned one for over 45 years. So sexy looking,feeling,great shooting light nimble and just different.A little expensive but very nice!
Does the CZ-455 American with a Suppressor Ready Barrel include the suppressor? If not, what is the cost of the suppressor?
That would depend on the suppressor that you buy plus the $200 tax stamp and the 6-13 month wait to get it.
I bought a Marlin 39A Golden Mountie lever action .22LR in 1966, and is as accurate today as in 1966. BTW, Annie Okley shot this type Marlin in her show.
HK 416 is fantastic! A little lighter than the S&W M&P 15-22 but solidly built like a .223! I put a Cvlife 4x32 Compact Scope and purchased two Colt 30rd magazines. A can’t miss for me and I’ve gotten a few impressed looks ... only other rifle I would consider adding to my arsenal would be the Henry AR-7.
I completely agree with you on this one! Mine arrived a few days ago. I took it out to the range, slapped on a red dot, zeroed it, and it shot like a dream the entire time!
Take a look at TNW's Aero Survival rifle before you grab the Henry. It's even available in .22.
No Tippmann M4-22?
CZ has moved on from the Model 455 to the Model 457. I greatly lust after a Brno Model 2 (predecessor of the CZ bolt-action .22s). There are some from Zdenek "Denny" Jakubec's estate on sale at J&G Sales.
Great article Megan. Now I have to get approval to purchase one of these from my better half. I have a old winchester single shot bolt from my dad. Can barely see the rifling in it anymore.
Back in 1969 I traded a flight jacket for an Armalite AR-7 that I loved. This year I bought a Henry AR-7 that I will replace with a bag of marbles and a slingshot. I tried six different brands and types of ammo, different mags, ran it clean and not-so-clean and finally decided its a very poor attempt by Henry to recapture the magic of the original, reliable, SURVIVAL rifle.
Really??? I've owned 3, one older one and two new ones. I tried several times to kill em and they ran EVERYTHING I put through em!! Did you contact Henry or just say f@ck it??
I bought the Henry AR-7 a few years back and put more than five hundred rounds through it. It wouldn’t shoot ten in a row without a miss fire. I love my lever action carbine but the AR-7 is a poor excuse for a Henry Rifle.
Get a set of scales and check your ammunition , I shoot competition matches and I have to weigh my ammunition
Don't forget about the Marlin 93 it's a great short light wait 22 that shoots 1 inch gripping at 80 yards head shots on all small game with ease cci stingers are great in them and 10/22 as well
Nothing better than a SA.22 Browning period- easy disassemble/ assemble/ clean, , lightest -22 ive ever carried and when 14-40 , could hit a squirrel
Open sites sitting still routinely at 35-45 yards- longest shot, every inch of 75 yards! It’ a 1953 Belgium made Browning I’ve had since 14- I’ve owned 3 of the makes of guns on this list- 2nd best to me would be a Remington Speedmaster, then the -22 Marlin
i love mine too, it didn't show up here except in an ad, ruger acts like the 10/22 was the first two piece 22 rifle, i got mine fifty years ago, belgium made. you have to work on the ruger to make it accurate.
Marlin model 70pss "Papoose".
The advantage this rifle has over the AR7;
Both front and rear sights are attached to the barrel on the Marlin.
The AR7 has the rear sight on the receiver and front on the barrel.
Marlin is better made.
I like, and own, 3 Henry rifles.
They are superb.
But the Marlin Papoose whips the AR7 for accuracy and quality every day of the week and twice on Sunday.
I will agree with you. Mine is not stainless but has performed perfect other than OLD school Butler Creek plastic mags (1990-ish), hopefully they've fixed some of that crap. I prefer factory metal magazines since. Henry?...I would love one of their lever actions for sure, small or big bore.
Ruger Precision 22. It's a tack driver.
good artical however you missed the boat on your choices. the smith & wesson ar15 in 22 is not legal in new york state and may not be elsewhere. and you missed the marlin 39 its been around for almost a century is take down and theyre almost indestructable maybee thats why theyve been aoun for so long and they just plain feel so good in your hands.
Leave New York then haha. Come on down to Texas!
Love my Henry Golden Boy, but my most useful .22 (tool) in the rural area where I live is still my Ruger single 6.
I have the CZ with a four power Leupold and consistently shoot 1/2 “ groups at 50 yards. Nuff said.
The Browning 22 lever action is the sweets 22 I have ever fired. Smooth lever throw with the whole lever and trigger traveling together no pinched fingers on rapid fire.
Ruger Precision?
The Keystone 722 is one of the most accurate .22 LR rifles for the money, especially the Varmint and Precision Trainer variants. Although taboo, it's common to see reports of it outperforming a CZ. If you choose a brand to feel accepted by the rimfire community, you overlooked the Keystone.
The tikka t1a is taking the CZ crown away on the rimfire boards
If my three-shot group is wider than 3/4" at 100 yards with my Tikka T1x, I get irritated because I know it was my fault. Awesome rifle.
You really need to check out a Marlin 39A! It is the Cadillac of .22 leverguns. Ignoring it and mentioning the Henry is bordering on sacrilegious! There's a reason it's been in production since 1891! I enjoyed the article other than the 39A snub.
Obviously you were talking about the best for the least amount of money foe a 22 made in the year 2020. The browning and the CZ are 2 dandy's for the money in 2020. I like this read, thanks Megan.
Personally I like the Nylon 66, not sure why there was no honorable mention, especially with resale values so high
Great choice! I regret passing on a $100 Nylon 66 because money was a bit tight one month.
You don't have the Remington 597 on this list. For me it is as good as the Marlin has been.
Personally, I’d take the remmy five nine seven over most of these but you did get number 2 right.
AR S&W MP 15-22 is so fun to shoot and mine is a tack driver boy. I hav3 the 50 round barrel too with Leupold scope. Varmits stand no chance!!!
Where can I get one of those 'ten round magazines' ?, and, how do I attach it to my Auto 22's buttstock tube feed [like the one in your pictures] ? ;-)
I came here to see if anyone else was going to mention this! Thank you sir!
How much does the browning sa-22 weigh?
5.2 pounds
where can I buy extra magazines for the Browning SA .22 ? Thanks
Browning 22LR feeds through the stock, there is no magazine!
The SA .22 has a 10 round tubular magazine feeding through the buttstock. No extra mags are needed, since the integrated tube mag doesn’t detach. To get a replacement magazine tube and plunger, contact Browning or independent parts suppliers.
like my customized rugers 10/22 s just picked up old 1946 Remington target master 510 restoring it to glory .reminds me sako growing up in finland shooting many sguirels with single action.cant wait to go range with that ,,
How about Anschutz?
Great if you're a benchrest shooter or planning to ski in a biathlon. I think this article is targeted more at plinkers.
Great if you're a benchrest shooter or planning to ski in a biathlon. I think this article is targeted more at plinkers.
The Savage 64F is a great .22 and very accurate. They can be had for $110.00 to about $130.00. Lots of reviews on YouTube.
+1
The Savage Model 64 push-in bolt is sort of a pain to use, but the accuracy is incredible at that price. It really does shoot more accurately out of the box than any of my other 22LR rifles. Nothing competes with the Model 64 at its super-low price point, making it the best 22 rifle for shooters on a limited budget.
This list should be updated with TCR22
It will be ;)
Hard to beat the 10/22. Mods are readily available.....you can turn this thing into almost anything you want. Although the Marlin Model 60 would be my 2nd choice.
I have a CZ 455 stainless with synthetic stock I think it's the best all-around squirrel gun out there for the money toped with a Leupold 3 to 9 by 40 vx-2 it's really sweet
So...the Browning SA comes with two 10 round magazines...really? If the writer had bothered to actually handle the rifle in question, they would have noted the rifle has a tube magazine which is loaded thru a recess in the plastic buttpad of the stock.
I was going to mention that also, I have one. The rounds are actually loaded thru the hole on the right side of the stock.
The Browning comment makes one wonder how qualified the writer is on this subject. Anyone familiar with the Browning knows it has tub mag.
Exactly, annd holds one in the barrel also, makes 11 in all...
How do you have your cover picture be a Crickett and then not mention it?
There are so many great .22 rifles from great manufacturers and they all could never be included in a single list of any reasonable length. You would at least have to break them down into some type of sub categories such as action etc..
The Ruger Precison Rimfire is my favorite .22. At around $400 it has an excellent cost/performance ratio. It loves the CCI Mini-Mag RN and will tightly group at 100 yards. You can afford a lot of ammo and fun for .08/round or less. I won't comment on all-around because I exclusively target shoot. But i also have a Ruger 10/22 non take-down. It's a lot of fun for $200. Throw a Nikon BDC scope on it for another $100 and you can do a lot.
I was looking at the Ruger Precision Rimfire, but then I found out that Tikka is coming out with the T1x - basically the T3x but in .22 LR or .17 HMR. First the Tikka, then a Ruger!
I love my RPR. Makes for great practice when I'm not taking it's Savage 10BA big brother to long distance.
I love my American Rimfire. Very accurate and fun to use with the BX mags.
The CZ USA 455 American is the one that sells the fastest from what I know. I also know a dealer with 12 Ruger 10-22 s in Pink and has not sold one in half a year!
I have a 10/22 they are junk i bought a Thompson center tcr22 today to try out
I got to agree with you I have a Ruger 10/22 and it jams all the time. Looking for a good bolt action,
Hummm...the most widely sold and owned .22 in the world...and You, and the guy before you intimate they are junk?
Gotta wonder...is it the gun... or you and the ammo you chose?
I recently got back into shooting. I now own 2 rifles: a Ruger 10/22 TALO M-1 Carbine model and a Henry Frontier edition 20" Octagonal barrel (it's essentially a Golden Boy without the Brass accents). The Ruger is loads of fun to shoot and super accurate, I go shooting with my nephew, former Marine. He owns a SCAR and a Winchester 1894. But you know which rifle he wants to shoot the most? That Henry. It's always the favorite. I think because all men who grew up watching John Wayne or Clint Eastwood have a cowboy fantasy.
Stay with my monster 46b wins every time.
My dad's old Marlin Lever Action Model 39A is still my favorite.. So worn now I can hardly read the engraving.
bought the cmmg .22 drop in conversion for one of my extra AR I have. works great if kept oiled and clean. sighted in at 50 yrds. and I can switch it back with ease.. will not work with a drop in trigger.had the ruger 10/22. it was the same. keep it oiled and clean. it was ammo picky
Marlin 60 best for the money
I love my lever guns also
Browning bl22
Winchester 9422m
Yup, those lever guns are FUN!
I'm a 10/22 fan.I have the 50th annv. edition. I also have an AR-7.. I bought it for the novelty of it, at my age I'm not not doing any hiking or camping. Mostly just target shooting..
Very cool, Bill!
I've shot a Marlin 60 for over 40 years and would buy another today if it wear ou (not likely).. It is very accurate for an inexpensive rifle and is especially handy on small game and varmints. Eastern Diamondbacks and gray squirrels are especially susceptible to its accuracy.. I have to mention that the gun is a hoot to shoot when it comes to plain old plinking and ammo doesn't break the bank..
Nice, Mike!