What Can You Hunt With a 22 Rifle

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Versatility of the .22 Rimfire
3. Small Game: The Primary Targets
4. Varmints and Pest Control
5. Species Comparison Table
6. Understanding Ammunition Choices
7. The Ethics of Rimfire Hunting
8. Choosing the Right .22 Rifle Action
9. Essential Gear for the .22 Hunter
10. Hunting Techniques for Success
11. Why the .22 Rifle Belongs in Your Survival Kit
12. Practicing for the Field
13. Conclusion
14. FAQ

Introduction

You are deep in a hardwood forest on a crisp October morning. The only sound is the rustle of dry leaves as a gray squirrel scurries along a fallen oak. You raise your rifle, find the target in your optic, and with a quiet "pop," the day's first meal is secured. This scenario has played out for generations of woodsmen because the .22 rifle is perhaps the most practical tool in any hunter's cabinet.

At BattlBox, we know that preparation isn't always about the biggest gear; it is about the right gear for the task at hand, and the best way to keep that kit moving is to subscribe to BattlBox. The .22 Long Rifle (LR) is a rimfire cartridge, meaning the firing pin hits the edge of the casing to ignite the primer. It is the gold standard for small game, pest control, and foundational marksmanship. This guide covers the specific species you can ethically harvest and the technical knowledge needed to use this versatile tool effectively.

The Versatility of the .22 Rimfire

The .22 LR is often the first firearm a person ever shoots. Its popularity stems from its low recoil and relatively quiet report. For a new shooter, the lack of a heavy "kick" allows them to focus on breathing and trigger control. For the seasoned veteran, it offers an affordable way to stay sharp without the high cost of centerfire ammunition.

From a survival perspective, the .22 rifle is a logistical masterpiece. You can carry hundreds of rounds in a small pouch that would barely hold twenty rounds of large-caliber hunting ammunition. This makes it an essential component for any long-term wilderness kit or emergency bag. If you are building that kind of loadout, the Emergency / Disaster Preparedness collection is a smart place to start.

Quick Answer: A .22 rifle is primarily used for hunting small game like squirrels and rabbits, as well as varmints such as groundhogs and prairie dogs. It is also effective for controlling pests like rats and raccoons, provided you maintain proper shot placement within 100 yards.

Small Game: The Primary Targets

When we discuss what you can hunt with a .22 rifle, small game sits at the top of the list. These are animals typically hunted for their meat and fur. Because the .22 LR does not produce a massive explosion of energy upon impact, it preserves the meat better than a shotgun or a larger rifle.

Squirrels

Squirrel hunting is the ultimate test of a marksman’s skill. These animals are small, agile, and often hide high in the canopy. Using a .22 rifle allows you to take precise headshots. This ensures the animal is dispatched instantly and leaves the meat on the back and legs undamaged. In the fall, look for "cuttings"—bits of hickory or acorn shells on the forest floor—which indicate squirrels are active nearby. For more field-focused reading, check out what you can hunt with a .22 rifle.

Rabbits and Hares

Rabbits are a staple for hunters across the United States. They are typically found in thick brush, at the edges of fields, or in tall grass. Cottontail rabbits and larger jackrabbits are both susceptible to the .22 LR. Because rabbits have thin skin and light bones, a standard 40-grain bullet provides more than enough stopping power.

Upland Birds (Where Legal)

In some states, it is legal to take certain birds like grouse or ptarmigan with a rifle rather than a shotgun. This is common in mountain regions or survival scenarios. Taking a grouse on the ground or a low limb with a .22 is a quiet way to secure a high-quality meal. Always check your local hunting regulations, as many states strictly forbid using rifles for migratory birds or specific game birds. If you want a second angle on the same topic, what do you hunt with a .22 rifle? is a useful follow-up.

Key Takeaway: The .22 rifle is the premier choice for small game hunting because it balances sufficient lethality with minimal meat damage.

Varmints and Pest Control

Varmint hunting often serves a dual purpose: protecting property and honing long-range shooting skills. Varmints are typically non-game animals that are destructive to crops, livestock, or infrastructure.

Groundhogs and Woodchucks

Groundhogs are famous for digging extensive tunnel systems that can undermine barn foundations or trip livestock. They are surprisingly tough animals. While a .22 LR can take them down, you must be precise. Shots should be kept within 50 to 75 yards to ensure enough energy remains to penetrate the skull or vitals.

Prairie Dogs

In the American West, prairie dog hunting is a popular pastime. These rodents live in massive "towns" and can be a significant nuisance to ranchers. While many hunters use high-velocity centerfire rounds for "long-range" prairie dogging, a .22 rifle is excellent for targets within 100 yards. It is a great way to practice reading the wind without spending a fortune on ammo.

Raccoons and Opossums

These nocturnal raiders are common pests around homesteads and campsites. They frequently break into chicken coops or trash bins. A .22 rifle is the standard tool for "coon hunting" or barnyard pest control. Because it is relatively quiet, it is less likely to disturb neighbors or wake up the household during a midnight pest intervention.

Invasive Species and Rats

In agricultural settings, large rats can become a major health hazard. Using a .22 rifle loaded with "birdshot" (tiny pellets) or standard low-velocity rounds is an effective way to clear out infestations in barns or grain silos. It is a practical application of marksmanship that provides immediate benefits to the property owner.

Species Comparison Table

Understanding Ammunition Choices

Not all .22 LR ammunition is created equal. The type of bullet you choose will drastically change your success in the field. When we curate gear at BattlBox, we emphasize matching the tool to the environment, and ammunition is no different. If you want a broader look at field-ready lighting and support gear, the Flashlights collection is worth a look.

Solid Lead Round Nose (LRN)

This is the classic .22 bullet. It is a 40-grain solid lead projectile. It does not expand much upon impact. This makes it ideal for small game like squirrels where you want a clean "pass-through" to save as much meat as possible. It is also generally the most accurate type of ammunition for target practice.

Hollow Points (HP)

Hollow point bullets have a small recession in the tip. When the bullet hits a soft target, the tip expands like a mushroom. This creates a larger wound channel and transfers more energy to the animal. Hollow points are the best choice for larger varmints like raccoons or groundhogs, where you need maximum stopping power.

Subsonic Ammunition

Subsonic rounds travel slower than the speed of sound (roughly 1,125 feet per second). Because they do not create a "sonic crack," they are much quieter. When used with a suppressed rifle, they are nearly silent. This is perfect for backyard pest control or for hunting in areas where you do not want to spook other game nearby.

High-Velocity Rounds

These rounds use lighter bullets (around 30 to 32 grains) pushed at higher speeds. They offer a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet doesn't drop as much over distance. These are excellent for prairie dogs or longer shots on rabbits, though they can be louder and sometimes less accurate than standard-velocity rounds.

Note: Always test several brands and types of ammunition in your specific rifle. Every barrel is different, and finding the one "load" your rifle likes will significantly improve your accuracy.

The Ethics of Rimfire Hunting

As outdoorsmen, we have a responsibility to be ethical. This means only taking shots we know will result in a quick, clean kill. The .22 rifle has limitations that every hunter must respect.

What Not to Hunt

You should never use a .22 LR for big game like deer, elk, or bear. In almost every state, it is illegal to hunt these animals with a rimfire cartridge. The .22 LR does not have the kinetic energy to penetrate the thick hide and heavy bone of a large animal to reach the vitals reliably. Using an underpowered round is cruel and often leads to a wounded animal that is never recovered. For a deeper look at the legal side, see is it illegal to hunt with a 22 rifle?

Myth: A .22 is powerful enough for a deer if you hit it in the eye. Fact: While a .22 can technically kill large animals, it is highly unreliable and unethical. In a survival situation, it is a last resort, but for standard hunting, it should never be used for big game.

Know Your Distance

The .22 LR is a "short-range" caliber. While the bullet can travel over a mile, its effective hunting range is generally under 75 yards. Beyond 100 yards, the bullet drops significantly, and the wind begins to move it off course easily. For the most humane results, try to get as close as possible to your target.

Choosing the Right .22 Rifle Action

The "action" is the mechanism that loads, fires, and ejects the cartridges. Each type has its pros and cons depending on what you plan to hunt.

Bolt-Action

Bolt-action rifles are known for their accuracy and reliability. Because the action is manually locked, there are no moving parts during the shot, which often leads to tighter groups. These are the preferred choice for precision squirrel hunting or target practice. They also handle different types of ammo (like low-power "shorts" or "longs") better than semi-automatics.

Semi-Automatic

The semi-auto, like the iconic Ruger 10/22, fires one round with every pull of the trigger and automatically loads the next. This is excellent for hunting fast-moving targets like rabbits or for clearing multiple pests in a short time. However, they can be finicky with dirty ammunition or low-power subsonic rounds.

Lever-Action and Pump-Action

These actions are robust and fun to shoot. They offer a middle ground between the speed of a semi-auto and the reliability of a bolt-action. They are great "woods guns" for carrying on a hike or keeping in a truck for opportunistic pest control.

Essential Gear for the .22 Hunter

A rifle is only part of the equation. To be successful, you need a few key accessories that help you maximize the caliber's potential.

1. Optics (The Scope): While iron sights are great for training, a 3-9x magnification scope is a "sweet spot" for hunting. It allows you to see small targets clearly at 50 yards. Look for a scope with a "rimfire" reticle, which is specifically designed for the ballistics of the .22 LR.
2. A Quality Sling: You will often spend more time walking than shooting. A comfortable sling allows you to carry your rifle hands-free while you navigate thick brush or use binoculars.
3. Cleaning Kit: The .22 LR is a "dirty" cartridge. It uses lead bullets often coated in wax, which can gunk up your barrel and action over time. Frequent cleaning ensures your rifle remains accurate and reliable.
4. A Bipod or Shooting Sticks: Because the targets are small, stability is everything. A lightweight bipod helps you take steady shots from a prone or seated position.

If you are building a minimalist carry setup around this kind of hunt, the EDC collection can help round out the rest of your everyday gear.

Our Advanced and Pro subscription tiers often include items like high-quality flashlights, cleaning tools, and outdoor accessories that complement a rimfire hunting setup. Having the right support gear makes your time in the field more productive and enjoyable. If that sounds like the kind of kit you want, choose your BattlBox subscription.

Hunting Techniques for Success

Success with a .22 rifle requires a different mindset than hunting with a high-powered centerfire or a shotgun. You are a marksman, not a "spray and pray" shooter.

Stalking and Still Hunting

Because you need to be within 50 yards, you must master the art of moving quietly. Take two steps, stop, and listen. Look for movement or the "out of place" shape of an animal's ear or tail. Wear clothes that don't swish and move into the wind so your scent doesn't give you away. For more practical field prep, what is a .22 rifle good for hunting? covers the broader use case.

Using Natural Rests

Never take an off-hand shot if you can avoid it. Lean against a tree, rest your rifle on a log, or sit down and use your knees for stability. The smaller the target, the more a tiny wobble will cause a miss.

Step-by-Step: Zeroing Your Rifle

Step 1: Set up a target at exactly 25 yards. This is a common "zero" for .22 rifles as it provides a predictable arc out to 50 yards. Step 2: Fire a three-shot group from a steady rest. Step 3: Adjust your scope's elevation (up/down) and windage (left/right) based on the center of that group. Step 4: Move the target to 50 yards and fire again. This will show you exactly where your bullet hits at the most common hunting distance.

Why the .22 Rifle Belongs in Your Survival Kit

We talk a lot about "bug-out" scenarios and emergency preparedness. In a long-term survival situation, your primary goal is often calorie procurement. A .22 rifle is the ultimate "meat getter." It is light enough for a child or smaller adult to carry and operate. It is quiet enough to avoid drawing unwanted attention to your location.

Moreover, the .22 rifle is a sustainable choice. You can store 1,000 rounds of .22 LR in a space smaller than a shoe box. In a scenario where resources are scarce, that box represents 1,000 potential meals. It is a tool for self-reliance that every household should consider. Our mission at BattlBox is to provide you with the gear and knowledge to handle these situations with confidence.

If you want a compact reference to keep in your kit, the My Medic Stay Alive Guide is a useful field reference for emergency knowledge.

Whether you are starting with our Basic tier or going all-in with the Pro Plus KOTM (Knife of the Month) club, we focus on equipment that serves a real purpose in the wild.

Practicing for the Field

You cannot expect to hit a squirrel's head at 40 yards if you only shoot your rifle once a year. The beauty of the .22 is that practice is cheap.

• Reactive Targets: Use steel "spinners" or even soda cans to make practice fun.
• Vary Your Positions: Don't just shoot from a bench. Practice shooting from a kneeling, sitting, and standing position.
• Timed Drills: Give yourself five seconds to find a target and fire. This mimics the "window of opportunity" you often have in the woods.

If you want a practical add-on for a first-aid-heavy range bag, the MyMedic Trauma First Aid Kit fits that role well.

Bottom line: The more you handle your rifle, the more intuitive it becomes. The best hunters are those who treat their .22 with the same respect and practice as their primary big-game rifle.

Conclusion

The .22 rifle is far more than a "beginner's gun." It is a sophisticated, highly effective tool for hunting small game, managing pests, and surviving in the backcountry. From the precision required for squirrels to the patience needed for groundhogs, it teaches the core fundamentals of hunting better than any other caliber. By understanding its limitations and choosing the right ammunition, you can turn a simple rimfire into a formidable meat-gathering machine.

Our goal is to help you build the kit and the skills to be truly self-reliant. If you're ready to upgrade your outdoor gear and get expert-curated tools delivered to your door, subscribe for monthly gear. Adventure. Delivered.

FAQ

Can you hunt deer with a .22 rifle?

In almost all cases, no. It is illegal in most states to hunt big game with rimfire ammunition because it lacks the power to ensure a humane kill. Using a .22 on deer is considered unethical and should only be thought of as an absolute last resort in a life-or-death survival situation.

What is the maximum distance you can hunt with a .22?

For most small game, the effective hunting distance is between 50 and 75 yards. While the bullet can travel much further, the drop in energy and the "arc" of the bullet make it very difficult to be accurate beyond 100 yards. Keeping your shots close ensures a clean and ethical harvest.

What is the best .22 ammo for hunting rabbits?

A 36-grain or 40-grain hollow point is generally considered the best choice for rabbits. The hollow point tip expands on impact, delivering more energy to the animal and ensuring it is dispatched quickly. High-velocity loads can also help if you are shooting across open fields.

Is a .22 rifle loud enough to spook other game?

While a .22 rifle is much quieter than a shotgun or a high-powered rifle, it still makes a distinct noise. However, the "crack" is small enough that many animals, like squirrels or birds in nearby trees, may not immediately run away. Using subsonic ammunition can make the rifle even quieter, allowing for multiple harvests in one spot.

For more hunting context and related field skills, check BattlBox’s .22 hunting guide.