Getting into shooting doesn’t mean you need to start with the fanciest rifle on the shelf. A good starter rifle should be simple, reliable, and easy to handle. Whether you’re looking to punch paper at the range or plink cans out back, these rifles are a great way to learn the ropes without breaking the bank—or your confidence.
Ruger 10/22
This one’s a no-brainer for beginners. The Ruger 10/22 is lightweight, accurate, and chambered in .22 LR, which means recoil is practically nonexistent. It’s a great way to get comfortable with fundamentals.
Tons of accessories and aftermarket parts make it easy to grow with as you gain experience. You’ll find it in just about every gun shop for a reason—it works.
Savage Axis II XP
If you’re looking to start with a centerfire rifle, the Savage Axis II XP is a solid pick. It usually comes with a factory scope and an adjustable AccuTrigger, which helps new shooters get consistent trigger control.
It’s chambered in popular calibers like .243 and .308, and it’s accurate right out of the box. It’s affordable, too, which helps when you’re not sure where your shooting journey will go.
Henry Lever Action .22
This one teaches good habits. The Henry .22 lever action is fun to shoot, smooth to operate, and doesn’t intimidate new shooters. Loading and working the lever builds a sense of rhythm and control.
It’s a throwback feel with modern reliability. Plus, it’s a great way to get someone hooked on shooting—especially younger or smaller-framed folks.
CZ 457
CZ’s 457 series is known for serious rimfire accuracy. It’s a bit pricier than some other .22s, but if you want a rifle that teaches precision from day one, this is a strong contender.
The bolt is smooth, the triggers are clean, and it looks and feels like a quality firearm. Perfect for target shooting or small game.
Marlin Model 60
The Marlin 60 has been teaching people how to shoot since the ‘60s. It’s a semi-auto .22 with a tube magazine and a track record of reliability. Easy to shoot and low maintenance.
It’s not flashy, but it just works. Great for backyard plinking or range time without spending a fortune on ammo.
Winchester Wildcat
This one often gets overlooked, but it’s a great budget-friendly option. The Winchester Wildcat is lightweight, ergonomic, and has a surprisingly crisp trigger for the price.
It’s also super easy to clean, which is a plus for anyone new to gun maintenance. It shares magazines with the Ruger 10/22, which is a nice bonus.
Mossberg Patriot
If you want to start off with a hunting-ready bolt gun, the Mossberg Patriot is worth a look. It’s available in several calibers and usually includes a factory scope.
It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done with decent accuracy and a smooth bolt. Great entry point for anyone interested in getting into deer hunting.
Tippmann M4-22
The Tippmann M4-22 is a .22 LR rifle built on an AR-style platform. It gives you the look and feel of a real AR-15, but with cheaper ammo and no recoil.
It’s ideal for training or just having fun. Plus, the controls are familiar for anyone who plans to move up to a standard AR down the line.
Remington 700 ADL
The Remington 700 is one of the most popular bolt-action platforms ever made. The ADL version is usually the most affordable way to get in the game.
Chambered in hunting calibers and known for accuracy, it’s a great way to start learning long-range shooting or hunting basics.
Ruger American Rimfire
Ruger’s American Rimfire rifle is a good blend of modern features and affordability. It’s got interchangeable stock modules, so you can adjust the comb height as you go.
Accuracy is solid, and it’s easy to handle. It’s a great learning platform before moving into centerfire rifles.
Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22
This one’s a favorite for new shooters who want an AR-style rifle without the recoil. The M&P 15-22 is lightweight, reliable, and chambered in .22 LR.
It’s a great training rifle if you plan to get into defensive shooting or just want to get used to AR controls without jumping into 5.56 right away.
Tikka T1x
If you’re into bolt actions and want something that shoots tight groups right out of the gate, check out the Tikka T1x. It’s not the cheapest .22, but it shoots like a much more expensive rifle.
The trigger is clean, the bolt is slick, and it’s just plain satisfying to shoot. It’ll spoil you for anything else.
Rossi RS22
The Rossi RS22 is a budget semi-auto that punches above its price point. It’s usually under $150, but it still runs well and shoots straight enough for learning the basics.
It’s not a rifle you’ll brag about at the range, but for a new shooter looking to get started without spending much, it’s hard to argue with.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
