Picking the right .22
 

I really want to buy a .22 for small game hunting. The problem is I don't have that much money, and I don't really know what to look for. I've shot .22's hundreds of time, but I don't know what to look for, especially for small game hunting. Please reply

Are you wanting a bolt action or a semiauto? What's your budget? Planning on scoping it or going to use the iron sites?

Probably the best thing to do is go to your local gun shop and handle as many .22's as you can. You will immediately know which guns you don't want and that will simplify things by narrowing down the choices. Generally bolt actions will shoot the most accurately, followed by lever guns, then semi autos. I know you said you don't have much money to spend but if you decide to fit a scope, try to get a rimfire version of good quality. I find it's usually best to splurge a little, rather than buy something cheap first, then have to replace it later for something better. For your first .22, I would stick with the .22 Standard Rimfire as opposed to the .22 Rimfire Magnum for the simple reason that the ammo will cost less and will likely shoot more accurately. I hope this helps.

There's quite a few rimfires for around $200 or less. You could always try a Henry. Very accurate and smooth lever action. Plus it's made in the USA.

Never seen one of these around me for under $200. I bought mine for $270 and that the cheapest ive seen, dont know if this has anything to do with it but i live in N.C.

By the way, Check out a marlin model 60. I just bought one (very nice rifle) the are about $160 around my area and you could also check out a marlin model 795 (Clip version with synthetic stock) they go for about $125 and their is a deal with marlin where on that particular model you get $25 off which makes it a $100 gun. NOT BAD AT ALL FOR A MARLIN... Check it out

Might be your place of purchase more than place of residence. I bought mine from WalMart a couple of years ago. With the Salesman of the Year increasing guns sales though, maybe the prices are higher....

i really like the ruger 10/22. you should check them out very rugged and reliable. like someone said go to the local gun shop and see what feels good.

Got mine at walmart too. But prices have gone up drastically in the past few years.

I have a Remmington 522 Viper Rifle. It looks exactly like this one: http://pictures.auctionarms.com/2288061128/9490021/8d8316c0270bae1081118296b48a2bf8.jpg
The accuracy is really good and it is pretty reliable. I have had it for 3 or 4 years and I have discharged maybe 2,000 rounds or more through it w/o a problem. I also bought it used so it has had more rounds than that put through it.
I think it was 150$ w/o the scope. I saw one at the flea market for 80$ last year. I only have one problem with it, the mags are impossible to find. I spent 40$ on getting a second magazine.

Other than that, it is an awesome gun!