If you’re in the market for 22LR ammo, or maybe your very first 22LR rifle or 22LR pistol, congratulations you’ve chosen one of the most useful cartridges ever made. (And I don’t mean “useful” like a multi-tool you never take out of the drawer. I mean useful as in affordable, easy to shoot, and capable of doing about a dozen jobs well.) The 22LR is famous for its low recoil, budget-friendly price, and remarkable versatility.
TL;DR – Skip The Line, Here’s Our Best 22LR Ammo Picks
Muzzle Velocity 1260 fps
Muzzle Energy 127 ft lbs
Muzzle Velocity 710 fps
Muzzle Energy 45 ft lbs
Muzzle Velocity 1235 fps
Muzzle Energy 135 ft lbs
Other Recommended Choices (With Ammo+ Savings):
- Winchester Super-X 40gr HP – 100 Rounds – $10.11 (0.101/rd)
- Federal American Eagle 38gr HP – 400 Rounds – $30.35 (0.075/rd)
- Wolf Match Extra 40gr LRN – 500 Rounds – $73.59 (0.147/rd)
- Winchester Silvertip 37gr SHP – 50 rounds – $4.75 (0.095.rd)
Notice: Prices shown are accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice. | Clik Here Skip to 22LR List
In this guide, I’ll walk you through choosing the right 22LR ammunition and gear for everything from casual plinking to small-game hunting, competitive shooting, and even some limited home defense roles. We’ll keep it clear, practical, and beginner-friendly, while still diving into the technical details you need to shop with confidence at Target Sports USA. Think of this as the trusted no-nonsense advice you’d get from a seasoned shooter who’s been there, done that, and still grins every time they pull the trigger on a .22.
What Makes 22LR Special
Before we dive into what makes the .22LR so special, let’s take a minute to talk about what the .22LR actually is. Here’s an accurate, concise answer:
The .22 Long Rifle (or .22LR) is a rimfire cartridge introduced in 1887 that quickly became one of the most popular rounds in the world. Known for its small size, low recoil, and affordability, it’s used for everything from target shooting and training to hunting small game.
- Low recoil high fun factor: You can shoot longer and learn faster. It builds fundamentals that transfer to larger calibers.
- Affordable practice: 22lr ammo costs far less than centerfire rounds, so regular range time is realistic.
- Quiet by comparison: It is still loud enough to require hearing protection, but it is easier on the ears than most centerfire.
- Extremely versatile: From informal plinking to precision rimfire matches, from pest control to small game, there is a 22lr load for it.
I like to think of 22lr as the cartridge that turns new shooters into safe, confident marksmen. It is also the cartridge I grab when I want a relaxing range day that still builds skill.
22LR Ammunition Types and When To Use Them
The 22LR might be small, but it comes in more flavors than your favorite ice cream shop. From classic lead round nose to hyper-velocity hollow points, each type has its sweet spot. Whether you’re plinking cans, hunting squirrels, or chasing tiny groups at the range. Let’s break down the bullet shapes, velocities, and specialty loads so you can pick the right one for the job.
Bullet shapes
- LRN Lead Round Nose: Accurate, reliable, and common for plinking and training.
- HP Hollow Point: Designed to expand in small game. Often a bit lighter and faster.
- Poly-tipped or specialty Lines like Winchester Silvertip 22lr or match tipped bullets push specific performance goals such as expansion or consistency.
Velocity classes
- Subsonic 22lr About 900 to 1050 fps: Stays below the sound barrier for quieter report, ideal with a suppressor and often very accurate.
- Standard velocity Around 1050 to 1130 fps: A great all-purpose choice for training and target work.
- High velocity About 1200 to 1300 fps: Adds energy for small game and general use.
- Hyper velocity Above 1400 fps: Maximizes speed for flatter trajectories and more energy in light bullets.
Specialty loads
- 22lr tracer ammo leaves a visible path in low light. Fun for teaching bullet flight, but check range rules and fire risk.
- Match-grade Eley, Lapua, and similar offerings focus on ultra-consistent velocity and groups.
- Suppressed-optimized Subsonic, clean-burning loads to keep gas and fouling down.
Supernova Green Tracers 22lr 40 Grain Lead Round Nose – Box of 50 SKU: PMSN22LRG
22LR Velocity Classes, Use Cases, and Typical Energy
| Class | Typical Velocity | Bullet Weights | What It’s Best For | Approx. Muzzle Energy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subsonic 22lr | 900 to 1050 fps | 40 to 45 gr | Suppressed shooting, precision groups, small-game where quiet helps | ~90 to 100 ft-lb |
| Standard Velocity | 1050 to 1130 fps | 40 gr | Fundamentals, bullseye, steel challenge | ~100 to 110 ft-lb |
| High Velocity | 1200 to 1300 fps | 36 to 40 gr | Small-game hunting, all-around plinking | ~125 to 140 ft-lb |
| Hyper Velocity | 1400 to 1650 fps | 32 to 40 gr | Varmints, flatter short-range trajectory | ~175 to 190 ft-lb |
Quick 22LR Ammo Picks By Use Case
Not sure which 22LR to grab for your next range trip or hunt? we’ve done the homework for you. Here are our hand-picked favorites for plinking, hunting, precision shooting, and even personal defense.
- Plinking & Training – Go with standard velocity LRN or a quality high-velocity HP. Think CCI Mini-Mag, Federal AutoMatch, or Aguila Super Extra… stuff that runs smooth and shoots straight.
- Small-Game Hunting – High or hyper-velocity HP in the 36-40 grain range will give you clean expansion and quick, ethical takedowns.
- Precision & Matches – Skip the speed race, subsonic or standard velocity match loads win here because consistency is king.
- Home/Personal Defense – If you’re using .22LR for defense, pick a load designed for penetration and controlled expansion, like Winchester Silvertip, and train until running it feels second nature.
.22 Long Rifle: Match Ammo vs Hunting vs Training Ammo List
Best 22LR Ammo For Competition: Lapua Center-X 22 Long Rifle Ammunition 40 Grain Lead Round Nose – 420163
| Manufacturer | Lapua Center‑X |
| Caliber | 22 Long Rifle |
| Bullet Type | Lead Round Nose |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1073 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 102 ft lbs |
| Primer | Rimfire |
| Casing | Brass Casing |
| Ammo Rating | Competitive / Target Shooting |
| Grain | 40 |
Best 22LR Ammo For A Pistol: Federal Gold Medal Target 22 Long Rifle Ammunition 40 Grain Lead Round Nose – 719
| Manufacturer | Federal AutoMatch |
| Caliber | 22 Long Rifle |
| Bullet Type | Lead Round Nose |
| Muzzle Velocity | 890 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 264 ft lbs |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Casing | Brass Casing |
| Ammo Rating | Target Shooting / Training |
| Grain | 40 |
Best 22LR Ammo For Varmint: CCI Stinger 22 Long Rifle Ammunition 32 Grain Copper Plated Hollow Point – 0050
| Manufacturer | CCI Stinger |
| Caliber | 22 Long Rifle |
| Bullet Type | Copper Plated Hollow Point |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1640 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 191 ft lbs |
| Primer | Rimfire |
| Casing | Brass Casing |
| Ammo Rating | Varmint / Samll Game |
| Grain | 32 |
Best 22LR For Self Defense: Winchester Silvertip 22 Long Rifle Ammunition 37 Grain Segmenting Hollow Point – W22LRST
| Manufacturer | Winchester Silvertip |
| Caliber | 22 Long Rifle |
| Bullet Type | Segmenting Hollow Point |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1060 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 92 ft lbs |
| Primer | Rimfire |
| Casing | Brass Casing |
| Ammo Rating | Personal Defense |
| Grain | 37 |
Best 22LR Ammo For Accuracy: CCI Standard Velocity 22 Long Rifle Ammunition 40 Grain Lead Round Nose – 0032
| Manufacturer | CCI Standard Velocity |
| Caliber | 22 Long Rifle |
| Bullet Type | Lead Round Nose |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1070 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 102 ft lbs |
| Primer | Rimfire |
| Casing | Brass Casing |
| Ammo Rating | Small Game Hunting / Plinking |
| Grain | 40 |
Best 22LR Ammo For Squirrel Hunting: Winchester Super-X 22 Long Rifle Ammunition 40 Grain Power Point Hollow Point – X22LRPP1
| Manufacturer | Winchester Super-X Power-Point |
| Caliber | 22 Long Rifle |
| Bullet Type | Power Point Hollow Point |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1280 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 145 ft lbs |
| Primer | Rimfire |
| Casing | Brass Casing |
| Ammo Rating | Varmint / Small Game |
| Grain | 40 |
Tip from team TSUSA: For zeroing a 22lr rifle, often start with a 50 yard zero. It gives a simple hold out to about 75 yards with high velocity loads, and you can map precise drops after that. Click here, skip to Zeroing your 22lr rifle.
How Loud Is A 22LR?
This question comes up all the time, and honestly, even though this is one of the quietest ammo out there, it can still casue some hearing damages without proper protection.
- How many decibels is a 22lr? Typically 140 to 160 dB at the muzzle for an unsuppressed rifle, and roughly 150 to 155 dB for an unsuppressed 22lr pistol. Keep in mind, your environment and barrel length matter.
- With a suppressor and subsonic 22lr, peak levels commonly drop into roughly 110 to 120 dB at the muzzle. You still need ear protection, especially on indoor ranges.
Hearing protection is highly suggested here for every string of fire. Good habits now, protect your hearing for life.
How Many Decibels Is A 22LR: Reference Table
| Setup | How Many Decibels Is A 22lr | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rifle, unsuppressed | roughly 140 to 160 dB | Still hearing-safe only with proper ear protection. Outdoors feels milder than it is. |
| Pistol, unsuppressed | roughly 150 to 155 dB | Short barrels move blast closer to your ears. |
| Suppressed with subsonic 22lr | roughly 110 to 120 dB at muzzle | Short barrels move the blast closer to your ears. |
Our Ear Protection Recommended Choices:
- Champion Passive Earmuffs Collapsible and Adjustable – Black
- Champion Slim Passive Ear Muff – Black
- Champion Pink Slim Fit Ear Muffs – Pink
Is the 22LR Enough for Self-Defense?
The 22LR has sparked plenty of debate regarding its self-defense capabilities. While it’s not the first choice for many, in the right hands, and with the right preparation, it can still serve as a capable option.
- Ever Wondered how lethal the 22LR can be?
The .22LR is fully capable of being lethal, which is why every firearm, no matter the caliber, must be handled with complete respect. Always follow the four rules of gun safety. - Is 22lr good for self defense?
It can work, but it wouldn’t be my first choice when other proven defensive calibers and platforms are available. Its strengths are low recoil and easy controllability, but its drawbacks include rimfire ignition reliability, limited penetration, and lower energy. That said, if the .22LR is what you can shoot well due to recoil sensitivity, injury, or budget, it’s far better than nothing. Choose reliable ammunition, like Winchester Silvertip 22LR, pair it with a vetted firearm, train often, and make accuracy your top priority.
.22 Rifles and Pistols to Know
The .22LR rifle market is full of choices, but a few models stand out for their reliability, accuracy, and sheer fun factor. Let’s take a look at the ones every shooter should have on their radar.
Semi-Auto .22 Rifles
- Ruger 10/22 – The gold standard of rimfire rifles. Rock-solid reliability, endless aftermarket parts, and models for every budget. If you want a .22LR that can grow with you, this is it.
- M&P 15-22 & Other AR-Style .22LRs – Perfect training tools for AR owners, with familiar controls and handling.
- Precision Bolt Actions – Rifles like the Bergara B14 .22LR, CZ 457, and Tikka T1x are built to chase tiny groups and thrive on quality subsonic or standard velocity match ammo.
Ruger 10/22 Standard Semi-Auto Rimfire Rifle .22 Long Rifle 18.5″ Barrel SKU: 1256
.22LR Pistols
- Ruger Mark IV & 22/45 – Accurate, reliable, and easy to maintain. A go-to choice for Steel Challenge or bullseye practice.
- Taurus TX22 – A modern, optics-ready design with generous capacity and a great track record for cycling a wide range of ammo.
- Compact Trainers – Classics like the Smith & Wesson Victory and Browning Buck Mark make excellent training and target pistols.
Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory Semi Auto Handgun 22 LR SKU: 108490
What Is The Best 22LR Semi-Automatic Tactical Rifle?
SHOOTER’S BONUS TIP: “Best” is all about what you need your rifle to do, whether that’s AR-style training, endless customization, or precision work. Let’s break down the top semi-auto .22LR tactical rifles and why they might be the right fit for you.
- For training that mirrors AR ergonomics M&P 15-22 or Tippmann M4-22 are top picks because the controls and manual of arms carry over to your centerfire rifle.
- For upgrade paths and magazines everywhere A Ruger 10/22 Tactical gives you a proven action with huge aftermarket support, from triggers to chassis and optics rails.
- For precision-leaning semi-autos Consider a tuned 10/22 with match barrel and trigger. If your goal is tiny groups, a precision-oriented bolt gun like the Bergara B14 22lr will still edge most semi-autos.
Get hands-on, try the controls, shoulder the rifle, and make sure magazines are easy to find. In the real world, reliability and ergonomics matter far more than a fancy spec sheet.
Selection Grid: Best 22LR Semi-Automatic Tactical Rifle For Your Goal
| If You Want | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| AR-style controls for cheap reps | M&P 15-22 or Tippmann M4-22 | Same manual of arms as your 5.56 carbine |
| Maximum parts and mags | Ruger 10/22 Tactical | Huge aftermarket, reliable rotary mags |
| Pure precision | Bergara B14 22lr or CZ 457 bolt | Subsonic match ammo loves quality bolts |
| Optics-ready pistol trainer | Taurus TX22 | Modern ergonomics, optics-ready models available |
Disclaimer: This section is provided for informational purposes only and reflects general industry knowledge and performance considerations. “Best” is subjective and depends on individual needs, preferences, and intended use.
The Best 22LR Suppressor: Key Things to Look For
A good 22LR suppressor can turn an already fun cartridge into a quiet, grin-inducing range companion, but not all cans are created equal. Here’s what to look for before you buy, so you end up with something that’s as practical as it is quiet.
- User-serviceable baffles: Rimfire ammo runs dirty, and fouling builds up fast. Choose a suppressor you can fully disassemble for easy cleaning.
- Weight and length: A suppressor that’s light and compact will keep your rifle or pistol well-balanced and easy to handle, especially on handguns.
- First-round pop and tone: If possible, try before you buy. The sound signature can vary between models, and on pistols the difference in tone is especially noticeable.
- Thread compatibility: Most .22 LR hosts use a 1/2×28 thread pattern. Confirm your suppressor matches your firearm’s threading before purchase.
- Ammo pairing: For the quietest performance, run subsonic 22LR ammo. This keeps the bullet below the sound barrier and eliminates the supersonic crack.
Pro tip: Suppressors are regulated under the NFA. Always check federal, state, and local laws before buying or using one.
Reliability Tips For 22LR Rimfire
The 22LR is a joy to shoot, but it can be a little finicky if you don’t keep it happy. A few simple habits can go a long way toward keeping your rimfire running smooth and trouble-free.
- Use quality magazines: Reliable feeding starts with well-made mags. This is especially important for semi-autos like the Ruger 10/22 or AR-style .22 rifles.
- Keep the chamber clean: Rimfire ammo leaves more residue than centerfire. Use a dry nylon or bronze brush and occasional chamber swabs to prevent extraction issues.
- Test a few loads: Some rimfire firearms are picky about ammo. Try different brands and bullet types to see what cycles best, then stock up in bulk.
- Go light on lubrication: Too much oil attracts powder residue and can cause malfunctions. Apply just enough to protect moving parts without overdoing it.
22LR Troubleshooting: Make Rimfire Run Like A Champ
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
| Light strikes or duds | Rimfire priming is less consistent | Try a different lot, keep chamber clean, verify firing pin hits are strong. |
| Failures to extract | Dirty chamber, wax lube buildup | Chamber brush and a few dry patches, go lighter on oil |
| Failures to feed | Magazine fatigue or cheap mags | Use quality mags, replace springs, avoid over-loading |
| Sudden accuracy drop | Lead or carbon fouling | Clean bore, confirm action screws and optic mounts are tight |
Zeroing, Optics, And Practical Accuracy for 22 Long Rifle
Getting the most out of your 22 Long Rifle isn’t just about the ammo, it’s about how you zero it, what glass you run, and knowing what kind of accuracy to expect. Dial these in, and you’ll be hitting with confidence whether you’re plinking or hunting.
- Zero distance: For most shooters, a 50-yard zero works well for general plinking and target practice. Hunters may prefer a 25-yard or 60-yard zero, depending on typical shot distances.
- Optics: A 1–6x LPVO or a lightweight 2–7x scope is a great fit for a general-purpose .22LR rifle. For fast target acquisition on plinkers and pistols, a red dot sight shines.
- Groups to expect: Many factory rifles can produce 1–1.5 inch groups at 50 yards with the right ammo. Match-grade rifles and premium ammunition can deliver even tighter results.
Zero and Holds With A 50-Yard Zero
| Load | 25 yd | 50 yd | 75 yd | 100 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 gr high velocity | +0.3 in | 0 | -0.9 in | -3.0 in |
| 40 gr standard velocity | +0.4 in | 0 | -1.2 in | -3.8 in |
| 45 gr subsonic | +0.5 in | 0 | -1.6 in | -4.6 in |
Buying 22LR At Target Sports USA
When you shop for 22lr ammunition at Target Sports USA, think in terms of task first.
- Range days and fundamentals, Standard velocity bulk packs that run clean and cycle your gun.
- Hunting High velocity 36 to 40 grain HP from reputable lines.
- Steel and speed games Reliable, consistent high velocity that cycles fast and flat.
- Suppressed use Subsonic 22lr that stays below the sound barrier in your barrel length.
You will also find niche picks like 22lr tracer ammo, specialty defensive options such as Winchester Silvertip 22lr, and plenty of Ruger 22lr compatible magazines and parts to support your rifles and pistols.
New and Notable 22LR Loads To Watch
Ammo standards are alwasy changing, with new loads pushing the limits of performance while classics keep delivering year after year. Here are some fresh offerings and proven standbys worth keeping on your radar.
- Remington 22 Golden Hunter 40 gr plated HP designed for small-game performance.
- Remington Ranch Hand reliability-focused round nose and HP options in 40 and 38 gr.
- CCI Suppressor Max 45 gr subsonic HP designed to segment at lower speeds.
- Federal Punch Rimfire short-barrel oriented, deep-penetrating 22lr for defensive roles.
- Mainstays CCI Standard Velocity, CCI Mini-Mag, Aguila Super Extra, Winchester Super-X, CCI Velocitor.
Aguila 22 Long Rifle 38 Grain Copper Plated Hollow Point SKU: 1B220335
Winchester USA Target 22 Long Rifle 36 Grain Copper Plated Hollow Point SKU: USA22LR500
Federal Champion 22 Long Rifle 36 Grain Lead Hollow Point SKU: 747
Buyer Checklist
Before you buy, run through this quick checklist to make sure your 22LR setup fits your needs, your platform, and your shooting goals.
- Define the role first. Example: Plink, hunt, compete, or train for defense.
- Pick the platform. Example: Ruger 10/22 for all-around fun, AR-style if you want training parallels, Bergara B14 22lr or similar for precision, Taurus TX22 or Ruger Mark IV for pistols.
- Match the ammo. Example: Subsonic 22lr for suppressed or precision, high velocity HP for small game, consistent bulk for practice.
- Test for reliability. Example: Try two or three loads and buy in bulk once you find the winner.
- Add the right accessories. Example: Simple optic, sling, spare magazines, and a small cleaning kit.
Field Notes
Here’s what real-world range time has taught me about getting the most out of your 22 Long Rifle.
- Tested subsonic 22lr with and without a can to confirm cycling before I buy a case.
- For small game, high velocity 36 to 40 gr hollow points group well and expand predictably.
- The Ruger 10/22 is still the easiest recommendation for a first 22lr rifle.
- The Taurus TX22 has been a reliable 22lr pistol for new shooters on my range days.
- If you are noise-sensitive, see the “How many decibels is a 22lr” table and always wear ear pro.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and reflects general shooting and ammunition knowledge. Target Sports USA encourages all readers to follow applicable federal, state, and local laws when purchasing, possessing, and using firearms or ammunition. Always handle firearms safely, use appropriate protective equipment, and seek proper training from qualified professionals. Product availability, specifications, and pricing may change without notice. Target Sports USA makes no guarantee of suitability for any specific purpose, customers are responsible for selecting products that meet their individual needs and intended use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Loud enough to require ear protection. Expect roughly 140 to 160 dB at the muzzle for unsuppressed rifles and around 150 to 155 dB from many pistols. Barrels, ammo, and environment change the numbers.
With subsonic 22lr through a quality suppressor, many setups measure roughly 110 to 120 dB at the muzzle. Still wear hearing protection, especially indoors.
It is absolutely lethal. Respect the cartridge, practice safe handling, and understand that responsible storage and training are part of ownership.
It can be, but it is not ideal. If 22lr is your workable option, choose reliable platforms such as the Taurus TX22, test your load thoroughly, and consider defensive-oriented rounds like Winchester Silvertip 22lr. Focus on accuracy and reliability.
If you want AR-like controls, the M&P 15-22 or Tippmann M4-22 are great. If you want maximum upgrade paths and aftermarket support, a Ruger 10/22 Tactical is hard to beat. For precision, look at a tuned 10/22 or a bolt gun like the Bergara B14 22lr.
You do not need it, but subsonic is the way to avoid the supersonic crack and get the most noise reduction. Test a few to confirm cycling.
Rimfire priming is less consistent than centerfire. Keep the chamber clean, use fresh quality ammo, and make sure the firing pin hits are firm and centered.
Ruger Mark IV and Taurus TX22 are excellent. Both tend to run varied ammo well, and both have good aftermarket and holster support.
For most shooters with a decent rifle, 50 to 100 yards is practical and enjoyable. Precision rigs can stretch much farther, especially with match ammo and wind discipline.
Yes, within local laws. It is a classic small-game cartridge. Know your effective range, choose an appropriate hollow point, and practice ethical shot placement.
22lr is absolutely lethal. Respect safe handling rules at all times and store firearms responsibly.
It can serve in a pinch. Reliability and penetration are the limiting factors. If you choose it, test your pistol with defensive loads such as Winchester Silvertip 22lr and Federal Punch, and train for precise hits.
Look for user-serviceable baffles, modest length and weight, and a tone you like on both pistol and rifle hosts. Pair it with subsonic 22lr to avoid the supersonic crack.
Sometimes, but many ranges restrict tracer because of fire risk. Always check rules before you shoot.
Kailon Kirby is the digital marketing strategist behind much of the firepower in Target Sports USA’s online presence. Equal parts data nerd and creative thinker, he’s passionate about crafting content that actually hits the mark, whether you're a longtime gun owner, weekend range-goer, or just starting to explore the world of ammunition.
Kailon blends SEO smarts with real industry insight to make sure readers find what they’re looking for, and enjoy the journey along the way. When he’s not fine-tuning campaigns or geeking out over traffic trends, he’s probably researching the next big thing in shooting sports.
- Kailon Kirbyhttps://blog.targetsportsusa.com/author/kailonkirby/
