Rimfires are usually thought of as short-range tools, but the right rifles and calibers can stretch their legs farther than many expect. Past 200 yards, bullet drop, wind drift, and ammo consistency all play much bigger roles. Not every rimfire is built to stay precise at that distance, but a handful of them have proven they can. If you want to reach beyond typical plinking ranges and still trust your hits, these rimfire rifles and calibers are where to start looking.
.22 WMR in the Savage B22 Precision
The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire carries more energy than a standard .22 LR, which helps it buck wind and stay accurate farther out. In the Savage B22 Precision, it delivers tight groups well past 200 yards when fed good ammo. The heavy barrel and ergonomic chassis design help shooters keep consistent hold and repeatable accuracy.
This setup makes it more than a squirrel rifle—it’s capable of ringing steel or dropping varmints at ranges where most rimfires start to lose steam.
.17 HMR in the Ruger Precision Rimfire
The .17 HMR is known for its flat trajectory and surprising accuracy at extended distances. The Ruger Precision Rimfire takes advantage of this by offering a rifle with adjustable ergonomics and consistent precision. Past 200 yards, it remains stable and effective, especially in calm conditions.
With the right optics and steady fundamentals, this rifle-caliber combo can hit small targets at ranges that leave .22 LR shooters guessing. It’s become a favorite for those who want rimfire performance that stretches further.
.22 LR in the CZ 457 Varmint MTR
The .22 LR isn’t always the first choice for 200-yard work, but in the right rifle it can shine. The CZ 457 Varmint MTR has a reputation for match-grade accuracy, and with subsonic or high-quality target ammo, it can stay on target even at the edge of rimfire ranges.
It requires good wind reading, but the rifle’s build and barrel quality help shooters get the most out of the caliber. Many competitive shooters rely on it for NRL22-style matches that push .22 LR to its limits.
.17 Mach 2 in the Anschutz 1502
The .17 Mach 2 doesn’t get as much attention as .17 HMR, but it’s capable of excellent accuracy at mid-range distances. In the Anschutz 1502, its light bullet and flat trajectory make it a strong performer at the 200-yard mark.
This rifle-caliber combo demands precise shooting fundamentals, but when handled right, it rewards the shooter with reliable groups. It’s a niche option, but one that proves rimfire doesn’t stop short when paired with the right platform.
.22 WMR in the Browning T-Bolt Target
The Browning T-Bolt Target in .22 WMR offers a fast straight-pull action with the precision needed for long rimfire shots. The extra velocity of .22 WMR helps it maintain energy past 200 yards, making it suitable for varmint hunting or target work.
The rifle’s trigger and barrel quality give shooters the control needed to maximize the cartridge’s potential. While not as common as bolt-action repeaters, the T-Bolt proves itself when accuracy at distance matters.
.17 HMR in the Bergara BMR Carbon
The Bergara BMR Carbon is a lightweight rimfire with the accuracy pedigree Bergara barrels are known for. Chambered in .17 HMR, it combines a flat-shooting round with a rifle that can stack tight groups. This setup has little trouble staying consistent beyond 200 yards.
Hunters appreciate it for varmints and small predators, while target shooters rely on its balance of weight and precision. It’s a modern rimfire that proves practical accuracy doesn’t have to stop at close ranges.
.22 LR in the Tikka T1x MTR
The Tikka T1x MTR has developed a reputation for producing centerfire-like accuracy from a rimfire platform. With the right .22 LR ammo, it can hold groups on steel at 200 yards and beyond, something many rimfires struggle with.
The rifle’s smooth action, crisp trigger, and barrel quality all contribute to its performance. Shooters who train with it find it an excellent crossover rifle, letting them practice long-range fundamentals with rimfire costs.
.17 HMR in the Savage 93R17 BTVS
Savage has long been associated with rimfire accuracy, and the 93R17 BTVS in .17 HMR proves why. Its stainless bull barrel and laminated stock create a stable shooting platform, keeping groups tight even when wind starts to play a factor.
Past 200 yards, this combo still maintains usable accuracy for varmints or target shooting. It’s a straightforward, dependable rifle that demonstrates how far the .17 HMR can really go when paired with a solid build.
.22 WMR in the Marlin XT-22
The Marlin XT-22 in .22 WMR is often overlooked, but it’s capable of more precision than many give it credit for. The heavier bullet of the .22 WMR holds energy and trajectory farther than standard .22 LR, making 200-yard shots realistic with good glass.
The rifle’s adjustable trigger and sturdy action let shooters get the most from the caliber. For those looking for a budget-friendly rimfire that can stretch out, this combo has proven reliable in the field.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
