The Ultimate Guide to the Best .22 Caliber Rifles

Few firearms hold as much significance as the .22 caliber rifle. It’s often the first gun we shoot, introducing us to marksmanship, safety, and hunting fundamentals. Beyond nostalgia, the .22 remains one of the most versatile firearms on the market. It’s perfect for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting. Whether you’re teaching a new shooter, hunting small game, or simply enjoying a day at the range, a reliable .22 rifle is a must-have. Here’s the HuntTested guide to the best .22 caliber rifles in all the core action categories: Bolt Action, Semi-Auto, Lever Action, Single Shot, and Non-Current Models.

Best Bolt-Action .22 Rifles

Bolt-action .22 rifles are prized for their accuracy, reliability, and precision. Whether you’re target shooting, hunting small game, or honing your skills, these rifles offer exceptional control and consistency.

1. Browning T-Bolt – Known for its unique straight-pull bolt action, the Browning T-Bolt offers fast cycling and excellent accuracy, making it a favorite among precision shooters.
2. CZ 457 American – Precision and craftsmanship define the CZ 457. With a smooth action, match-grade accuracy, and quality walnut stock, this rifle is a favorite among hunters and target shooters alike.
3. Ruger American Rimfire – Ruger delivers a budget-friendly yet highly capable bolt-action rifle. It features an adjustable trigger, interchangeable stock modules, and a free-floating barrel for enhanced accuracy.
4. Savage Mark II FV – If you’re looking for a tack driver on a budget, the Savage Mark II FV is hard to beat. Equipped with the famous AccuTrigger and a heavy barrel, it’s designed for accuracy at an unbeatable price point.
5. Tikka T1x – Known for its precision and high-quality craftsmanship, the Tikka T1x is an excellent choice for serious shooters who want a reliable and accurate bolt-action .22 rifle.
6. Bergara BMR Carbon – Lightweight and highly accurate, the Bergara BMR Carbon is a premium option designed for competition and hunting alike.

Best Semi-Auto .22 Rifles

Semi-automatic .22 rifles provide fast follow-up shots and ease of use, making them great for plinking, target practice, and varmint control. These rifles offer a perfect balance of speed and accuracy.

1. Ruger 10/22 – The gold standard of semi-automatic .22 rifles, the 10/22 is reliable and endlessly customizable. With a rotary magazine and abundant aftermarket parts, this rifle has earned its legendary status.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 – For those who prefer an AR-style rifle, the M&P 15-22 delivers with outstanding reliability and functionality. Lightweight and highly customizable, it’s a great training rifle for those who want to transition to centerfire AR platforms.
3. Winchester Wildcat—A lightweight and modern semi-auto .22, the Winchester Wildcat features a unique design with an easy-to-remove lower receiver for easier cleaning and maintenance. It is available in a variety of stock choices and accepts 10/22 magazines.

Best Lever-Action .22 Rifles

Lever-action .22 rifles combine classic Western styling with smooth, quick handling. They are great for shooters who appreciate tradition, craftsmanship, and the nostalgic feel of a timeless design.

1. Henry Golden Boy – When it comes to lever-action .22s, the Henry Golden Boy is the undisputed king. Its smooth action, beautiful brass receiver, and top-tier craftsmanship make it a pleasure to shoot and own.
2. Browning BL-22 – A beautifully crafted lever-action rifle, the Browning BL-22 is known for its smooth short-throw action and high-quality construction, making it a fantastic choice for plinking and small game hunting.
3. Henry Classic Lever Action – If you love the Henry Golden Boy… but prefer something more affordable, the Henry Classic delivers the same smooth action and reliability at a lower price point.

Best Single-Shot .22 Rifles

Single-shot .22 rifles are simple and great for training young shooters. Their easy operation and reliability help build strong fundamentals while offering a rewarding shooting experience.

1. Crickett 22 – Designed for young shooters, the Crickett 22 is lightweight, easy to use, and built with safety in mind. It’s a great starter rifle that instills proper shooting fundamentals.
2. Henry Mini Bolt Youth – Another excellent choice for young shooters, this rifle combines Henry’s legendary build quality with a simple and safe single-shot design. It features fiber optic sights for improved accuracy.

Bespoke Custom .22 Rifles

For those who demand the best in craftsmanship, precision, and luxury, these high-end .22 rifles represent the pinnacle of rimfire firearm quality materials and craftsmanship. They are perfect for collectors and serious shooters alike.

1. Cooper Firearms 57M – When only the best will do, the Cooper Firearms 57M delivers custom-grade accuracy and premium materials, making it a true investment piece.
2. Parkwest Arms SD-22 – A high-end .22 rifle with exceptional craftsmanship and precision, the Parkwest Arms SD-22 is designed for those who demand the absolute best. With an array of custom options, you can make your SD-22 unique.

Non-Current .22 Rifles

Although these 22 rifles may no longer be in production, they remain legendary in the shooting world. Discontinued models continue to hold value for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their history and craftsmanship. Look for these in the used section of your favorite gun shop or online.

1. Marlin 39A – A true legend, the Marlin 39A has been a favorite among lever-gun enthusiasts for over a century. Though more challenging to find these days, it remains one of the best-built and most accurate lever-action .22s ever made.
2. Marlin 925 – A sentimental favorite and solid performer, the Marlin 925 is a reliable bolt-action rifle cherished by many shooters.
3. Remington 341 – Featuring an innovative action design, the Remington 341 is a classic rifle with a unique and smooth operation that still impresses collectors and shooters.
4. Winchester 52B – A precision-built bolt-action rifle that has stood the test of time, the Winchester 52B is revered for its accuracy and craftsmanship.
5. Marlin Model 60 – A classic in the semi-auto world, the Marlin 60 boasts a tube-fed magazine and exceptional accuracy. Known for its reliability and affordability, this rifle has been a staple among shooters for decades.
6. Remington Model 4 – A classic rolling-block design, the Remington Model 4 was a popular single-shot rifle in the early 20th century, prized for its simplicity and durability.
7. Stevens Favorite 30G – The Stevens Favorite is a nostalgic throwback to early American single-shot rifles. It offers solid accuracy and a break-open design for easy loading.
8. Winchester Model 67 – A beloved bolt-action single-shot .22 rifle, the Winchester Model 67 was widely used for training and small-game hunting, known for its rugged reliability.

Final Thoughts

A quality .22 rifle (or two) belongs in every hunter’s collection. Whether you prefer the precision of a bolt-action, the speed of a semi-auto, the classic feel of a lever-action, the simplicity of a single-shot, or the nostalgia of a non-current model, there’s a perfect .22 out there for you. Which one is your favorite? Let us know!

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