Small-game hunting is all about accuracy, control, and confidence in your shot. Rimfire calibers continue to dominate because they’re cost-effective, lightweight, and proven in the field. Whether you’re hunting squirrels in thick timber or rabbits across open ground, these cartridges deliver the performance hunters count on. They offer manageable recoil, affordable ammo, and solid accuracy, making them hard to replace. Here are the rimfire rounds hunters keep reaching for season after season.
.22 Long Rifle
The .22 LR is the go-to rimfire for small-game hunters everywhere. Its light recoil and low cost make it easy to practice with, which builds skill and confidence behind the trigger. From squirrels to rabbits, it handles close- to mid-range shots without ruining meat.
Accuracy is where it really shines. With the right rifle and optics, you can hit small targets out past 75 yards. Affordable, reliable, and versatile, the .22 LR remains unmatched as an all-around hunting cartridge.
.22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR)
The .22 WMR offers a bump in power and range over the .22 LR, making it perfect for hunters looking to stretch shots past 100 yards. It delivers more energy for quick, ethical kills on rabbits, foxes, and similar game without excessive recoil.
Its versatility also makes it a favorite for hunters who want one rimfire to cover multiple roles. Pair it with good glass, and you’ll have a cartridge capable of clean, precise shots in open country or dense cover.
.17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR)
Known for speed and precision, the .17 HMR is a favorite for hunters who value long-range accuracy. Its high velocity gives it a flat trajectory, making it ideal for squirrels, groundhogs, and other small targets beyond 100 yards.
Despite the added speed, recoil stays light and manageable. If you need to consistently hit small game at distance, the .17 HMR provides exceptional performance without stepping up into heavier, more punishing centerfire options.
.17 Mach 2 (HM2)
The .17 Mach 2 is one of the most underrated rimfire calibers for small-game hunting. Built from a necked-down .22 LR case, it offers flatter trajectories and higher velocities than standard .22 options while keeping recoil extremely mild.
It’s ideal for hunters chasing squirrels, rabbits, and other small critters where precision counts. While not as widely available as .17 HMR, those who hunt with HM2 swear by its reliability and impressive performance on smaller targets.
.22 Short
The .22 Short remains a classic for close-range small-game hunting and pest control. Its quiet report and extremely low recoil make it an excellent choice when shooting around barns, farms, or other sensitive areas.
Hunters who prioritize stealth appreciate how effectively it handles close shots without over-penetrating. While it lacks the range of the .22 LR or WMR, its pinpoint control in short-distance work ensures it still has a role in the field today.
.17 Winchester Super Magnum (WSM)
For hunters who need maximum range and stopping power from a rimfire, the .17 WSM is unmatched. It’s the fastest rimfire on the market, capable of reaching over 3,000 fps, making it perfect for longer shots on varmints and small game.
Despite its speed and power, recoil remains surprisingly manageable. While ammo costs are higher than .22 LR or .17 HMR, the added distance and accuracy make it worth the investment for open-country hunting.
.22 Long
The .22 Long sits between the .22 Short and .22 LR in performance and recoil, giving hunters a middle ground when they want quiet shots without sacrificing accuracy. Though less common today, it’s still favored by hunters using older rifles chambered for it.
While it lacks the range and punch of more modern cartridges, the .22 Long works well in thick cover or close-range hunts. For small-game specialists looking for minimal recoil and a softer report, it gets the job done.
.22 Magnum Subsonic
For hunters who need quiet, precise shots, .22 Magnum subsonic rounds are a top choice. They combine the power of the .22 WMR with reduced noise, making them ideal when hunting around farms, near property lines, or in areas where keeping things discreet matters.
Accuracy remains excellent out to moderate ranges, and when paired with a suppressor, these loads are impressively quiet. Small-game hunters use them for clean, ethical kills without disturbing nearby wildlife or neighbors.
.17 Aguila
The .17 Aguila is an overlooked but capable rimfire cartridge designed for precision small-game hunting. It fires lightweight bullets at high speeds, resulting in flat trajectories and reliable accuracy on small targets like squirrels and prairie dogs.
While it’s less widely available than mainstream rimfires, hunters who stock up on ammo find it a cost-effective option for longer shots. For those seeking a budget-friendly alternative with great accuracy, the .17 Aguila delivers solid results.
.22 Winchester Automatic (Win Auto)
Designed for older Winchester rifles, the .22 Winchester Automatic still sees use among collectors and dedicated hunters. It offers light recoil, quiet operation, and smooth cycling when paired with compatible rifles, making it excellent for small-game hunting in close quarters.
While its availability is limited, enthusiasts who keep these rifles running rely on the Win Auto for reliable accuracy. If you’ve got a classic chambered for it, it’s worth holding onto for certain hunting situations.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
