As one of the most useful rounds ever produced, the .22 Long Rifle connects two opposite sides in the firearms world, small youth rifle and high-quality match grade target weapons. Translated into plain words, you may find at the market a .22 starter rifle for one C-note or one ostentatiously expensive for almost five grand.
During the Cold war, the .22LR was one of the most rare calibers that have been equally popular with both Soviets and Western sport shooters. The .22 Long Rifle has been a staple of American gun culture for over a hundred years for three main reasons. First, at less than 4 cents a round, it is inexpensive. Second, it is effective particularly for varmint. Third, it is quiet and almost recoilless for general shooting.
If you have a preference for shooting disciplines, but you don't have an exceedingly large budget, there are few options. You may buy a cheap but decent plinking .22LR gun, or if it is beyond your possibilities, you can get an air rifle, or you could even go with a slingshot if you wanted to. However, we will handle the firearm shooting option in this overview.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for .22LR Rifles
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Rossi RS22 22LR Rifle
- CZ USA - 455 Varmint Tacticool 16” 22 LR 5+1RD
Comparison of the Best 22LR Rifles
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How Accurate is a .22LR Rifle?
Before giving any statement about .22 Long Rifles, one should be careful not only for safety reasons but also for its accuracy and power.
Though the humble .22 is often under-appreciated for its power and accuracy, let me inform you that .22 target rifles and pistols are fully worthy of Olympic events or other elite levels of competition. Hence, some .22s designs serve as the epitome of accuracy and reliability.
While the .22 LR is effective to 150 yards (140 m), the rimfire range at competitions tends to be less, so the official distance at World Championships are 50 meters for rifles and 25 meters for pistols. Top-ranked rifles with high-quality ammunition are capable of consistently shooting five bullet groups inside 0.250 inches at 50 yards when shooting at an indoor range.
However, with an everyday .22LR, decent ammo, proper sights, and a good trigger, an average plinker or hunter should have 1/2 to 1" 5-shot group size. Keep in mind that cheaper ammunition can be very inconsistent, so you may have some shots that are way off, turning your group into a shotgun pattern.
Of course, with a lot of practice and proper shooting technique, you should be looking for 1/2" at 50 yards as a goal. However, using an accurate rifle and best .22 LR ammunition available, some rimfire enthusiasts can hit their targets consistently far more than the 150 yards. Actually, there are some quite impressive shooting events at 500 yards, wherewith minimal or no wind .22 caliber shooters can consistently hit a target.
Just out of curiosity, currently, the maximum range record belongs to the one Australian shooter who made repeated hits at 720 yards.
How to Choose a .22LR Rifle
If you are interested in long-range shooting mentioned in the previous section, you would not expect a $200 rifle/scope combination to do this, especially with bulk ammo. If we leave the extreme distance shooting aside, the versatile .22LR cartridge will work just fine in rifles built for short-range tactical competition, training, recreational shooting or even in self-defense scenarios.
Depending on the purpose you intend to use the .22LR for, you should choose the appropriate gun that will be built for exactly one task. While the most common uses are target practice, plinking, varmint hunting or as a survival rifle, for all of them, your primary concerns should be accuracy, reliability, and longevity.
Although a minute of the tin can is "good enough" for plinkers and casual shooters, an ethical hunter or serious competition shooter will choose a more precise marksmanship tool whenever possible.
You may find the .22 rifle in myriad iterations with many types of action. Generally speaking, bolt-action rifles will have better long-range accuracy compared to the semi-autos. The bolt-action rifles are inherently accurate because their action is a lot tighter and with smaller tolerances between moving parts.
Another thing that will help you with accuracy is barrel quality and the barrel length. One of the main selling points of the high-end rifles is the hammer-forged barrel and quality manufacturing process.
As for reliability, the bolt actions are more reliable than most semi-automatics.
You should also keep in mind that keeping the barrel clean contributes to the reliability and longevity of your .22 caliber firearm.
Review of the Best .22LR Rifles
In the next chapter, we will describe the nine most popular .22LR from some of the best gun manufacturers in the industry. Each rifle comes with its own unique qualities that have earned a place in the hearts and gun safes of millions. These .22LR rifles fire a diminutive round, but due to the quality of design, reputation, reliability and user reviews, they stand out from the crowd and take their place on our list.
Best Overall:
Rossi RS22 22LR Rifle
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Although the ten-round detachable, box magazine is a welcome feature, some owners complain that only one 10 round magazine is not enough in the package.
Many buyers welcome the fact that the RB22 has a Monte Carlo-style stock equipped with a raised cheek comb, making it a good option for mounting rimfire scopes. However, the rifle's aluminum receiver is only outfitted with a 0.375-inch dovetail instead of the more popular Picatinny/Weaver-style rail.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the least expensive guns on our list, the Rossi RS22 has a few features you may expect only on models that are more expensive. It is equipped with a free float 18-inch barrel in a matte finish and with a target crown. The RS22 has excellent open sights made of the high-visibility orange fiber-optic insert. The rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation via large knobs without tools.
Both front and rear fiber optic sights are removable in case you want to use a scope or other optic. For that purpose, the rifle is equipped with an integral 3/8-inch dovetail designed to accept commonly available rimfire scope mounts.
Resembling the contour that follows most semiautomatics today, Rossi's RS-22 is very similar to the Mossberg 702 Plinkster. It should not surprise you both guns are built by the same manufacturer in Brazil. Assuming that, regular 10-rd mags, as well as the 25-rd extended magazines, are completely interchangeable between Mossberg 702/802 Plinkster and Rossi RS22.
Who Will Use This Most
The Rossi RS22 is outfitted with an all-weather Monte Carlo stock built of synthetic material. With the top of the receiver grooved for tip-off style rimfire rings, it also possesses a perfect contour for use with traditional scopes with an objective lens up to 32mm. Furthermore, its semi-automatic design and 10-round detachable box magazine combined with the weight of just 4 pounds make the Rossi RS22 the perfect rifle for youth and new shooters. While an excellent starter for the young ones, the RS 22 is an excellent addition to the farm to deal with varmints, predators, and pests.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Despite the fact that many rimfire shooters prefer mechanical sights, Rossi should design a better solution for the receiver to accept an optic without some modification.
As you will expect on a rifle in this price range, the trigger control group is a mix of steel and polymer with a long and heavy trigger pull weighing in at 6.5 pounds resistance on a scale with a bit of creep before the sear lets go. It is good enough for just plinking or hunting but for more ambitious shooters; we highly recommended upgrading it.
Bottom Line
Rossi's little and economical .22 trainer in the form of its RS22 model shoots great groups with decent ammo. Average shooter can get groups measured from 0.5” to 1.5" at 25 yards and about 2.5-inch groupings at 50 yards.
Overall this affordable semi-automatic is an excellent starter rifle for new shooters, or as a cost-effective grab and go plinker for backpackers.
Best 22LR Rifle for Squirrel Hunting:
CZ USA - 455 Varmint Tacticool 16” 22 LR 5+1RD
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The new CZ Tacticool Suppressor-Ready 455 lineup boasts 13 variants with different stock and barrel configurations, but the 2159 model features a Boyds Pro Varmint stock, with a Monte Carlo comb designed solely for use with scopes via an 11 mm dovetail rail machined into the top of the receiver.
While this mounting solution limits scope ring options a bit, many CZ-455 shooters install a 30MOA rail to improve scope elevation range.
Instead of traditional wood stocks, this model sports a black laminate stock, which feels stiffer and more solid than a typical synthetic stock. The stock has a pebble-texture paint finish that provides a police sniper tactical stock look and feel.
Finally, in numerous board discussions, CZ owners agree that CZ 455 models should pass quality control checks at a higher level than average.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The selling point of the CZ 455 series is the capability to interchange barrels utilizing twin setscrews to fix the barrel in the receiver as part of an interchangeable barrel system, allowing you to shoot either .22LR or .17HMR.
Though it's not really a competition rifle, the CZ 455 Varmint Tacticool is the most accurate gun on the list due to the minimal tolerances in machining and a hammer-forged steel barrel. The new Tacticool Suppressor-Ready rifle is equipped with a 16.25 inch (413 mm) varmint barrel with 1/2×28 threads for those who want a quieter shot.
This bolt-action rifle comes with an adjustable trigger (between 2.0lbs - 4.0lbs) making it one of the best .22LR rifles for long-distance shooting.
Who Will Use This Most
As a variant of the CZ 455 Varmint, the Tacticool "Suppressor-Ready" version is designed for use with optics and it is primarily intended for target shooting.
Except in target and competition role, this "Suppressor-Ready" rimfire would be excellent for both hunters in sub-urban areas and casual shooters.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Though the CZ 455 is an excellent rimfire rifle built with Old World style and craftsmanship, the owners usually upgrade this gun with a 30MOA scope base, cheek riser, trigger kit, and pillars kit.
The stock stiff bolt handle is a must upgrade, and many owners choose an aftermarket bolt handle for more clearance from the scope and a more positive feel on the bolt knob.
Since the factory steel trigger is adjusted at about 4 lbs, for some reason it felt heavier than that, changing the trigger spring or installing a complete exchanging kit will get the trigger pull weight down to a more adequate amount for a rimfire.
Bottom Line
No matter if you are a seasoned marksman or just learning to use a long-barreled gun, this rifle will offer better precision and feel than mass-produced rimfire rifles.
The CZ USA 455 Varmint Tacticool is a typical sample of the old school rifles with the ability to swap the barrels and actions between any CZ-455 stocks for greater versatility and flexibility.
Best 22LR Bolt Action:
Ruger American Bolt Action .22lr 8301
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report?
A well designed 60 degree bolt provides ample scope clearance, but it feels stiff to work, as the action is very tight.
Another small issue buyers report with the gun is the comb on this stock, which doesn't provide a natural position for the head when using the scope.
Why It Stands Out To Us?
A selling point of the Ruger American Rimfire (RAR) is the inclusion of the interchangeable stock modules that give different cheek comb heights as well as different lengths of pull.
Unlike many less expensive rifles, the RAR comes with the free-floating hammer-forged threaded barrel. The barrel features a target crown and is offered in standard 22-inch length and a compact 18-inch version.
Along with flush-mounted 10/22 BX-1 10-round rotary magazine, RAR accepts all 10/22 magazines.
Who Would Use This Most?
Ruger’s 8301 American Rimfire rifle is a welcome addition to the sea of low-end hunting rifles that will be perfect for hunters who use bolt action rifles. Its modularity is also an excellent feature for young enthusiasts who are just learning to shoot or those eager to improve their shooting techniques.
What Could Be Improved and Why?
The stock is made of very slick rigid polymer (plastic), which can easily slip out of your hands. Ruger should compensate it with some more aggressive texture to add more “grippyness” to the stock.
The position of four tapped holes in the receiver didn’t match up with the adapter, so the aftermarket rails can’t be used on the American rifle.
Bottom Line
The Ruger American Rimfire is chambered in .17 HMR, .22 LR and .22 Winchester Rimfire Magnum, two-barrel configurations and high or low comb attachment for the stock. With such versatility, the RAR provides some good flexibility not available on most other rimfires at this price point.
Best 22LR Sniper Rifle:
Ruger - Precision Rimfire Rifles 22LR
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users agree that customization and adjustment options such as adjustable length of pull and comb height as well as a combination of Picatinny rails and M-Lok systems make it the most versatile of the similar advertised counterparts.
Customers also like the added benefit of changing the length of pull of the bolt. It allows shooters to mimic a center-fire-rifle bolt throw for training purposes.
While everything on this rifle is adjustable, for the average gun owner that might be too many settings, so it may not be the best rifle for a casual plinker.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Introduced in late 2017 as a scaled-down version of the Ruger Precision Rifle, the rimfire version has the same features of its big brother.
It includes a highly adjustable chassis stock, free-float 15-inch aluminum handguard with Magpul M-Lok slots, Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger, and the large tapered bolt handle.
The target-grade bull barrel is 18 inches long and is made of cold-hammer-forged 1137 alloy steel.
The muzzle is threaded at ½"-28 TPI to accept sound suppressors and similar devices.
The RPR comes with a single 15-round magazine, but it will accept all high capacity magazines.
Who Will Use This Most
While it is natural to assume that a .22LR rifle is ideal for youth to begin on, it also offers a wide range of uses, filling the role of an entry-level competition gun or plinking rifle for the casual shooter. Additionally, since this rimfire's bolt operation replicates that of the centerfire Ruger Precision Rifle it is a useful and inexpensive muscle-memory training rifle for that purpose.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Buyers have reported only a few minor inconveniences mostly related to the BX-15 magazine. Sometimes a bit more effort is required on the bolt to feed the new cartridge because of the stiff feed lips.
Some shooters recommend manually brushing or dumping out the ejection port to allow it to properly eject the spent shell casing when using the BX-15 magazine.
Bottom Line
With its futuristic looks, the Ruger Precision Rimfire is a bit of a departure from classic 22LR bolt actions, but it is the perfect rimfire rifle for small game hunting in the timber. It also works great for training and competition. At about half the price of its counterparts and with its modular-like platform, the Ruger Precision Rimfire Rifle is a great solution for beginners and more ambitious shooters.
Best 22LR Target Rifle:
Ruger 10/22 Target .22LR 16.1" Rimfire Rifle
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Though the target trigger pull is lighter than standard 10/22 carbines, one should expect better accuracy from a “target” rifle. With 2+ MOA group sizes, it is accurate enough for a semi-auto .22, but for the gun with a Target designation, it is a decidedly average performer.
On the other hand, as with all Ruger 10/22 firearms, Target model 21186 is not a finicky eater when it comes to the .22 LR ammunition. You should avoid using .22 cartridges loaded with blunt-nosed bullets in the tighter 10/22 Target chambers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The laminate stock with thumb hole adds to the linear stability while keeping the classic wood touch. It is nicely finished and comes with two swivel studs at the front segment.
The 16.1" precision-rifled, cold hammer-forged barrel with a .920" diameter tensioned aluminum sleeve is the most prominent item of the Target Lite 10/22. It features a 1/2"-28 threaded muzzle to accept muzzle devices.
Being a target rifle, Lite model ships without iron sights, but you get a Weaver-style 3/8" aluminum scope base that will also accommodate a tip-off the mount.
Who Will Use This Most
The newest sub-variant of Ruger’s highly praised 10/22 line is specially designed for rapid-fire precision target shooting, but its uses are certainly not limited to just that.
That said, 10/22 Target Lite is largely aimed at target shooting, but if the price tag isn’t too high for you, this rifle is also perfect for teaching new shooters and as a beginning competition setup.
Weighing in at 7.5 lbs. the old 10/22 Target was too heavy to be handy, but the new Lite model at 5 pounds may fit even in the roll of a trail-scouting rifle.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The Ruger's users usually polished a sear surface to get a massive improvement in trigger feel. Some also install an aftermarket polymer bolt stop, which will take the clack smack out of the bolt cycling.
The Lite's stock is comfortable, but additional checkering on the palm swell would have been appreciated.
Bottom Line
At first glance, Ruger's Target Lite Rimfire rifle looks like a distinctive deflection from the classic carbine lineup.
As the Ruger 10/22 Target Lite is lightweight, handy and reliable, it is the ideal learning and plinking gun. However, since it is not really accurate enough to be a target rifle, shooters who are genuinely interested in the precision shooting will gravitate to the bolt rifles.
6. Ruger 10/22 Takedown 18.5" 22 LR Stainless
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users like the build quality and accuracy of this rifle. The rifle is exceptionally reliable and aptly priced. The ease of customizability is another factor appreciated by the buyers. However, one drawback was the carry bag which lacked any outer pockets and is not very quick to push in/out the rifle
Why it Stands Out to Us
The rifle features a takedown design that allows the user to easily and quickly disassemble it. The 18.5-inch barrel allows the shooter to properly utilize the effective range of the .22lr caliber, while not adding much length to the rifle. Additionally, the carry bag is also worth counting.
Who Will Use This Most
The rifle is perfect for hunters, survivalists, and overnight campers. Largely due to the fact that it can be broken down into a compact package and be stored with ease. It is also good for a SHTF situation and can also be carried inside your car as a takedown weapon.
Bottom Line
The Ruger 10//22 takedown is a reliable, accurate and very customizable rifle perfect for hunting and survival situations. It can be easily stored/carried in compact spaces and is available at a great price.
7. Ruger 10/22 .22 LR Carbine Tactical with Flash Hider
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The most selling aftermarket part for standard 10/22 is the receiver because the Ruger ships their rifles without optic friendly receivers. So many shooters are forced to purchase a railed receiver so they can use an optic with their 10/22. Fortunately, like all great companies, Ruger has listened to their customers and released the Tactical 1261 model with an integral rail.
There is always discussion about aftermarket high-capacity magazines. Though Ruger works reliably with their standard flush-mounted 10-rounder, if you are looking for hi-cap mags with any other brand, you might have some difficulty loading and unloading when needed.
Some recent buyers also noticed that newer editions appear to be more accurate than the older variants sold just a few years ago.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Ruger 10/22 is probably the single best selling semi-auto .22 on the market that comes with the modern features demanded by today’s .22LR shooters.
The main selling point of this 10/22 Tactical is its design which can be upgraded indefinitely due to incredible aftermarket support.
As a typical 10/22, it sports a gas blow-back system and a cold-hammer-forged satin black (carbon steel) barrel.
Unlike the standard model, the rifle doesn't come with steel sights, but it features a 3/8" aluminum base, enabling the shooter to choose their scope or other optical accessories.
The 16.12-inch barrel has a threaded muzzle to accept a Ruger flash suppressor, which is removable so that a sound suppressor can be mounted.
Who Will Use This Most
The basic features of a Ruger 10/22 Tactical are Picatinny rails for mounting optical accessories, a synthetic stock, and a short 16.12-inch barrel topped with a flash hider. You would agree these features are usually seen in law enforcement and military combat firearms, but there are also many civilians preferring .22-caliber firearms in the role of tactical-type rifles intended for personal defense or a survival niche.
Obviously, the .22LR is no combat round for sure, but the Ruger 10/22 Tactical rifle has become the favorite of various law enforcement organizations and even can be found in the hands of some Special Forces units like the Navy SEALs, for use with suppressors in covert operations.
What Could Be Improved and Why
While the Ruger 10/22 family of rifles is the most popular brand at the rimfire market, it, like any other .22LR rifle has limitations. The 10/22 is as reliable as these types of products get, but if you are planning to shoot cheap bulk ammo, the extractor might not eject the casing and the hollow points won't work very well because they jam.
The bolt hold-open mechanism can be tricky for new shooters to operate. Unfortunately, Ruger kept their not so good BHO mechanism at this Tactical configuration, forcing less experienced users to engage the bolt release mechanism manually to disengage it.
Like other semi-autos in this price range, Ruger comes with a heavy and a bit rough trigger so you may want to upgrade the firing group.
Bottom Line
A tried and true Ruger 50-year-old design based on proven blow-back systems has been improved over the years to the point that we have a 10/22 for almost every shooting context. The Ruger 10/22 Tactical rifle is built like a traditional semi-automatic hunting rifle to be used as a small game rifle and a solid .22 trainer, but it can also be used as a suppressed sniper rifle and riot control weapon in law enforcement agencies.
8. Marlin Model 60SN .22 LR 19" Micro Groove Rifle w/ 4x20mm Scope
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report?
Compared to the firearms with box fed magazines, the Marlin 60 with its tubular brass magazine tends to be less prone to jams.
While the Marlin Model 60 will cycle ammo from many different manufacturers, it's worth it to note that Model 60 is optimized explicitly for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge only.
Being a small-caliber long gun at a budget price, the Model 60 could easily be upgraded, except for a couple of parts, the rifle doesn't need too much customization to provide comfortable use and optimal results.
Why It Stands Out To Us?
The Marlin Model 60 has a tube magazine located under the barrel of the rifle and has a capacity of 14 rounds. The Marlin 60 features a manual and a patented automatic "last-shot" bolt hold-open. The autoloader action is based on classic straight blow-back operation, with right-side ejection, which makes it a right-handed only gun.
The next great feature of a Model 60SN is a 19" Micro-Groove rifled barrel with the quality crown making the rifle inherently accurate. Many owners believe that it has better accuracy and superior out of the box performance than a stock Ruger 10/22, but doesn't have the "cool factor" or "wow effect" of a Ruger.
Another high point is the manual bolt hold-open and a patented automatic "last-shot" bolt hold-open device, which has an external lever on the front of the trigger guard.
Finally, the tubular magazine and design of this rifle are so robust and straightforward that most of these guns will remain jam-free with minimal cleaning.
Who Would Use This Most?
Since its introduction in 1960, the Marlin Glenfield Model 60 gained the reputation of being one of the best- suited rifles for daily hunters, small-game hunting, and pest control, as well as entry-level competitive shooting.
Model 60SN is an excellent way to introduce youngsters to shooting for low-cost target practice.
On the other hand, due to the lesser offer of aftermarket parts and accessories, Marlin Model 60 is the perfect gun for persons with little interest in customization or modification.
What Could Be Improved and Why?
While the Model 60 is also quite plain, there are two downsides to the Model 60 that can be improved. As other economically priced rifles, Marlin's receiver is grooved for a scope mount limiting optics choices and ease of mounting. The other drawback is the open sights which are quite outdated. While the ramp front sight tended to disappear on target, the rear sight windage adjustment is almost nonexistent.
Bottom Line
With over 11 million rifles sold over the last 60 years, the old reliable Marlin's Model 60 presents an impressive and enjoyable rimfire long gun, that owes its popularity to its durability. This rifle simply doesn't have a high failure rate.
Best 22LR Rifle for Hunting:
Marlin - XT-22 22” 22LR 7+1RD
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Like all Marlin 22s, the XT lineup features Marlin's propriety Micro-groove rifling. You can find on many forums that the rifling in the barrel of a Marlin quickly becomes useless if you use a copper-coated bullet, instead of lead, but longtime users claim that there is zero chance of wearing out the rifling by shooting copper coated bullets.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The XT-22 is one of Marlin’s most recent rimfire offerings ideal for target practice and small game. The Marlin's company uses a tried and true bolt action system from high powered hunting rifles and applied it to the ultra-small caliber field.
Further, the bolt action type enables the .22 LR family of XT-22 rifles to use a much wider variety of ammunition such as .22 Long and .22 Short, with a variety of different magazines, both detachable and tubular.
The barrel is 22 inches long and it is profiled on Marlin's proprietary "Microgroove" system using shallower rifling grooves for increased accuracy.
Marlin provides XT rifles as standard with an upgraded "ProFire" trigger which incorporates a "Glock" type safety while it allows you to customize your trigger pull weight between 3 to 6 lbs.
Who Will Use This Most
As the XT-22 is essentially a conventional bolt gun, it would be a top option if your primary shooting context is hunting. The XT-22 is an excellent small-caliber long gun for practicing in dead-hunting season, especially if you primarily shoot bolt-action firearms. It is also a very good gun for training, shooting fundamentals, and introducing youngsters to the sport of target shooting.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Some rifles owners complain about occasional failures to extract (FtE) assuming that ejectors are poorly designed and won't pull shells every time from the breach. Like any other entry-level .22 rifle, this Marlin's bolt action needs the upgraded iron sights.
Bottom Line
Applying innovations on this gun such as the micro-rifling and an adjustable trigger combined with match grade ammo the Marlin XT-22 is capable of shooting bullets into a one-inch group at 100 yards.
Though it's a great training tool, with quality hollow-point ammunition, the Marlin XT-22 can be pressed into service as an actual hunting rifle.
Best Tactical 22LR:
Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport Rifle .22lr
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This semi-auto rimfire is not very accurate, but probably never intended it to be, so if you are looking for a tack driver you should pick a bolt-action rifle.
The magazine with 25 round capacity is great for both casual shooting and hunting, but it requires paying attention to when loading, whereas the shooters recommend feeding them with 20 rather than 25 rounds to lower the risk of jams and misfeeds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are many other .22LR style AR rifles, but the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport comes with few advantages that stand out to us.
Compared to a lot of child-sized rimfires having a more or less classic look, the M&P 15-22 stands out from them because of its AR styling and 25-round magazine capacity.
Besides its AR-15 appearance, the M&P 15-22 Sport features some Magpul MOE (Magpul Original Equipment) furniture such as a 10" handguard, compatible with the M-Lok system accessories, or Picatinny-style rail sections, and Magpul MBUS folding iron sights.
Except for the threaded barrel, bolt group, and trigger group that is made of metal, the rifle is almost entirely made of polymers including the upper and lower receivers.
The M&P15-22 SPORT comes standard with a medium profile 16” carbon steel barrel coated in classic Armornite finish.
Like with its 5.56 cousins, the M&P15-22 Sport's owners have the option of using a six position CAR15/M4 style telescopic stock.
Who Will Use This Most
Since it mimics a standard AR-15, the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 represents an ideal weapon either for an AR-15 owner, law enforcement and civilian, or just for training those shooters who are new to the AR world.
While easily being used by casual shooters or novices with its wow factor, the M&P15-22 also will give officers more time on the range for training on an AR-15 style rifle without spending the money on more expensive centerfire ammo.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Though the M&P 15-22 Sport shares many features of more expensive ARs, there is some room for improvements. With occasional lemons in production control, the M&P 15-22 owners often decide to change a standard AR-15 stock and A2 style pistol grip.
Another shortcoming of the M&P 15-22 Sport rifle is the lack of a front sling attachment to pair with that on the rear.
Bottom Line
This is quite a successful combination of one ancient round and modern firearms design.
Ultimately, as an AR-15-inspired semi-automatic .22 rimfire rifle, the M&P 15-22 Sport is great for training shooters already possessing an AR-15 or those who want an alternatively styled or accessory friendly .22 rifle.
Why You Need a New .22LR Rifle
Although many shooters consider the .22 cartridge too under powered, it has numerous advantages and can be found in any current firearms type of operation ranging from simple single shot youth rifles to extremely expensive weapons. An additional benefit is ammo cost and availability, making the target practice a lot more practical and affordable. However, and .22 firearm is also the least expensive to purchase.
From cheap plinkers to the top-tier match .22LR rifles, the choice depends only on the question of what you want to use it for. For shooting tin cans, hunting small game, target shooting or survival purposes you will need different types of .22LR rifles
Some people prefer semi-auto rimfires because you use a magazine with various capabilities and a much greater rate of fire compared to bolt-action, pump-action or lever-action rifles.
Others who are looking for acute accuracy will gravitate to a single shot or bolt gun rather than a semi-auto anyway.
There are Other Reasons You Need a .22 Rifle.
Since the A .22 has no recoil, it is a perfect gun for training and learning safety skills.
A .22 gun is also a valuable tool for hunting small game and for people learning to hunt.
Though it should not be the first choice on your list of protection calibers, the tiny .22 with proper shot placing can effectively stop any attack.
Conclusion
First, buying a .22LR rifle is a safe investment, but when you make a decision what .22LR rifle to purchase, the most crucial factor is the gun purpose and your style of shooting. For most shooters, an affordable, all-around compact rimfire will be quite enough, but for those with large ambitions, a dedicated tack driver with a longer barrel is a must-have.
Anyway, to end on a useful note, nobody loves an inaccurate gun. With rimfires, it seems more about the ammo than the rifle.
People Also Ask
While the .22lr is a very popular, old and renowned cartridge. There are still quite a few questions that linger around in the mind of shooters. Concerning issues like power, effectiveness, range, and legalities. We’ll try to answer these questions below:
How Powerful is a .22LR Rifle?
Relatively speaking, the 22LR caliber is not worth ignoring, especially with the right shot placement. A 32 grain CCI Stinger .22LR bullet has a muzzle energy of 191 ft/lbs which drops down to 81ft/lbs at 100 yards. Whereas a 5.56 bullet has a muzzle energy of about 1200 ft/lbs.
Is a .22 a Good Survival Rifle?
It is obviously better than having nothing at hand. A 22LR round is accurate, has a long effective range with low recoil and is perfect for hunting small game like squirrels, rabbits, foxes or coyotes. While having a bigger caliber (5.56 or 7.62) will be good when SHTF. Additionally, different people have their own opinion.
Will a .22 Kill a Deer?
Yes, it will kill a deer at close range with the right shot placement. However, it is both illegal and unethical. 22LR rimfire ammunition is illegal to hunt deer in all 50 states of the US. While other 22 caliber centerfires (.223 or .22-250) are legal for hunting deer in most states.
