A good rimfire rifle is a tool you’ll keep reaching for, whether you’re knocking over tin cans, sharpening your skills, or heading into the woods for small game. They’re easy to handle, economical to feed, and available in a huge range of styles to match your preferences.
The rifles here balance accuracy, reliability, and handling. They’re proven performers that can keep things lighthearted at the range but still deliver when it’s time to bring home squirrels or rabbits.
Ruger 10/22
The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most adaptable rimfire rifles ever made. It’s light, reliable, and accurate right out of the box, with endless aftermarket support for customization.
For plinking, you can keep it stock and enjoy smooth shooting with minimal recoil. If you want more precision or a different look, upgrades are available for everything from triggers to barrels, making it a rifle you can truly make your own.
Marlin Model 60
The Marlin Model 60’s tube magazine and micro-groove rifling make it a classic in the rimfire world. It’s a soft shooter with excellent accuracy, ideal for both casual range sessions and small game hunting.
Its semi-automatic action cycles smoothly, and the longer barrel gives it a slight edge in sight radius. It’s the kind of rifle that rewards a steady hand and can put tight groups on paper without much fuss.
CZ 457 American
The CZ 457 American offers a refined bolt-action platform with excellent out-of-the-box accuracy. It’s chambered in .22 LR but has the precision you’d expect from a centerfire rifle.
The adjustable trigger and quality barrel make it a capable hunting rifle for small game. At the same time, its smooth bolt throw and crisp break make it satisfying to run on the range when you’re chasing tighter groups.
Savage Mark II FV-SR
The Savage Mark II FV-SR is a heavy-barreled bolt-action .22 designed with accuracy in mind. It comes threaded for a suppressor, making it especially useful for quiet pest control or discreet range shooting.
Its AccuTrigger system allows you to fine-tune trigger pull to your preference, helping you get the most out of its inherent precision. It’s a versatile choice for anyone who values accuracy over rapid-fire capability.
Henry Classic Lever Action .22
Henry’s Classic Lever Action .22 combines timeless style with reliable function. The lever throw is smooth, and the ability to cycle .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle ammunition adds versatility.
It’s a great rifle for teaching new shooters or for those who want a nostalgic shooting experience. On the small game front, it’s light and easy to carry, with accuracy that makes it effective in the field.
Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint
The Browning T-Bolt is a straight-pull bolt-action rifle that stands out for speed and accuracy. The straight-pull design allows for quicker follow-up shots without breaking your cheek weld.
With its quality barrel and adjustable trigger, it delivers tight groups on paper and consistent hits on small game. It’s a unique option for shooters who appreciate something a bit different from the typical bolt-action feel.
Winchester Wildcat
The Winchester Wildcat is a lightweight, budget-friendly semi-auto that’s simple to maintain. Its receiver drops out for easy cleaning, and it uses Ruger 10/22 magazines, adding convenience.
Accuracy is solid for plinking and light hunting, and the ergonomics make it easy to handle for extended sessions. It’s a smart choice for a reliable, easy-to-maintain rimfire rifle.
Tikka T1x MTR
The Tikka T1x MTR brings centerfire-level quality to the rimfire market. It features an adjustable trigger and a cold-hammer-forged barrel, delivering consistent accuracy shot after shot.
It’s equally at home on the range as it is in the woods. For shooters who demand a refined feel and precision from their rimfire rifle, the T1x is worth serious consideration.
Anschutz 1710 D KL
The Anschutz 1710 D KL is a premium bolt-action rimfire designed for top-tier accuracy. It’s the kind of rifle used in competition but equally capable in the field.
Its build quality is exceptional, and the two-stage trigger is among the best available in a rimfire. If you’re looking for a rifle that rewards precise technique, this is one of the best options on the market.
Bergara BMR
The Bergara BMR is a precision-minded bolt-action rimfire with features that feel more like a competition rifle than a casual plinker. Its carbon-steel barrel and crisp trigger make it capable of producing impressive groups at longer rimfire distances.
It’s available in multiple barrel lengths and styles, giving you flexibility depending on whether you prioritize weight or stability. For small game hunting or bench work, it delivers accuracy and consistency that’s hard to beat in its price range.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
