When it comes to target shooting and small game hunting, selecting the right .22LR ammunition is crucial. The .22LR cartridge is one of the most popular and versatile rimfire rounds, known for its affordability, accuracy, and reliability. In this article, we've meticulously curated the top 5 best .22LR ammo options based on rigorous research and testing, including velocity, accuracy, expansion, and overall real-world performance.
Our selection process considered several key factors:
- Velocity:Ensuring high-speed performance for effective shooting.
- Accuracy:Consistency in grouping and precision at various distances.
- Reliability:Reliable ignition and consistent feeding in different firearms.
- Expansion:Proper bullet expansion for effective hunting performance.
- Versatility:Ammo that performs well across different shooting disciplines.
Our Top 5 Ammunition Brands for Target Shooting and Hunting
- CCI High Velocity 40gr LRN - Best Overall
- CCI Blazer 38gr LRN - Best Budget Option:
- Federal 36gr Copper Plated HP - Best for Consistent Expansion:
- Aguila High Velocity 40gr LRN - Best for Hunting:
- Remington Subsonic 38gr LHP - Best for Suppressed Shooting:
Best Overall: CCI High Velocity 40gr LRN
The CCI High Velocity 40gr LRN stands out as the best overall .22LR round, offering a high muzzle velocity for flat trajectory and consistent accuracy. It's an excellent choice for both target shooting and small game hunting, delivering reliable ignition and clean-burning powder for minimal fouling.
CCI 22 Long Rifle High Velocity 40gr Lrn Red 100/5000
Best Budget Option: CCI Blazer 38gr LRN
For shooters looking for a cost-effective yet reliable .22LR round, the CCI Blazer 38gr LRN is an excellent choice. It delivers great performance for plinking and casual target shooting without compromising on quality. The lead round nose bullet ensures smooth feeding in semi-automatic firearms.
CCI Blazer 22 Long Rifle 38 Grain. LRN - 525 Round Box
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Good accuracy for practice shooting
- Reliable function in most firearms
Cons
- Not optimized for hunting due to lack of expansion
Best for Consistent Expansion: Federal 36gr Copper Plated HP
The Federal 36gr Copper Plated Hollow Point is an ideal option for those looking for a round that offers reliable expansion. The copper-plated bullet reduces barrel fouling while delivering consistent accuracy. It’s great for target shooting and can also be used for small game hunting.
Federal .22 LR 36 Grain Copper Plated - Box of 525
Pros
- Consistent expansion
- Reduced barrel fouling
- Great for both targets and small game
Cons
- Hollow point may not penetrate as deeply as solid rounds
Best for Hunting: Aguila High Velocity 40gr LRN
If you need a reliable .22LR round for small game hunting, the Aguila High Velocity 40gr LRN is a top choice. It offers excellent velocity, ensuring effective terminal performance on squirrels, rabbits, and other small game.
Aguila High Velocity .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose
Pros
- High velocity for superior terminal ballistics
- Consistent accuracy and trajectory
- Reliable feeding in semi-automatic firearms
Cons
- Slightly louder report than subsonic rounds
Best for Suppressed Shooting: Remington Subsonic 38gr LHP
For those who shoot suppressed or prefer quieter rounds, the Remington Subsonic 38gr Lead Hollow Point is the best option. Its lower velocity keeps it below the sound barrier, minimizing noise while still offering great expansion for hunting applications.
Remington 22 LR Subsonic 38 Grain Lead Hollow Point
Pros
- Subsonic for quieter shooting
- Good expansion for small game hunting
- Smooth feeding and reliable function
Cons
- Reduced velocity affects trajectory at longer distances
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best .22LR ammunition depends on your specific needs, whether it's target shooting, plinking, or small game hunting. Our top five picks provide a range of options, ensuring you have the best ammo for accuracy, reliability, and performance. No matter your intended use, investing in high-quality .22LR rounds will enhance your shooting experience. Stock up today and enjoy better performance at the range or in the field!
Frequently Asked Questions
The Federal 36gr Copper Plated HP is an excellent choice for target shooting due to its accuracy and consistency.
For hunting, the Aguila High Velocity 40gr LRN and Remington Subsonic 38gr LHP provide excellent terminal performance.
The Remington Subsonic 38gr LHP is the best choice for suppressed shooting due to its subsonic velocity.
The CCI Blazer 38gr LRN offers reliable performance at an affordable price, making it great for practice and plinking.
The CCI High Velocity 40gr LRN is known for its outstanding reliability, feeding, and ignition in various firearms.
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