A good .22 rifle is one of the most useful tools you can own for small game and quiet hunts. Light recoil, inexpensive ammo, and proven accuracy make the .22 perfect for rabbits, squirrels, and other small critters. While some rifles are made to punch paper at the range, others are built with hunters in mind—lightweight, reliable, and accurate when you’re walking through the woods. These rifles have proven their worth time and time again in the field.
Ruger 10/22
The Ruger 10/22 is about as reliable as .22 rifles come, and its reputation is well earned. Lightweight and quick-handling, it’s easy to carry through the woods for long stretches without weighing you down. With its semi-automatic action, you can take fast follow-up shots when rabbits or squirrels don’t sit still.
The 10/22 also offers a wide range of aftermarket upgrades, letting you tweak it to your exact preferences. Out of the box, though, it’s plenty accurate and dependable for any small-game hunt.
Marlin Model 60
The Marlin Model 60 has been around for decades, and hunters still swear by it. Known for its accuracy and reliability, this rifle feeds from a tubular magazine, giving you a solid number of shots before reloading. It’s lightweight and handles well, which makes it a natural choice for slipping through brush.
Many hunters grew up with a Model 60 and still keep one in the rack for small-game seasons. It’s affordable, accurate, and built to last years of field use without fuss.
CZ 457
If you want a bolt-action .22 that brings precision to the hunt, the CZ 457 is a strong contender. The rifle’s excellent trigger and solid action provide the accuracy needed when headshots on squirrels are the goal. It’s also built with durable materials, so you don’t have to baby it in the field.
The 457 comes in different configurations, including compact and varmint models, giving you options depending on how you hunt. Its consistency makes it one of the best bolt-action .22s for small game.
Henry Classic Lever Action .22
For hunters who like lever guns, the Henry Classic Lever Action .22 delivers both nostalgia and performance. It’s smooth to operate, lightweight to carry, and plenty accurate for taking down small game at typical hunting ranges. The tubular magazine provides good capacity for a long morning in the woods.
Henry’s reputation for quality shows in this rifle, and many hunters enjoy the combination of speed and simplicity that a lever action offers. It’s a reliable field rifle that feels natural to use.
Savage Mark II
The Savage Mark II is another bolt-action rifle that’s earned a reputation for accuracy. With a user-adjustable AccuTrigger, you can fine-tune it to your preference, helping make clean, precise shots. The rifle’s solid construction and dependable feeding make it trustworthy on long hunts.
For hunters who want a simple, accurate rifle without breaking the bank, the Mark II remains a standout choice. It’s easy to carry, dependable in the woods, and capable of excellent accuracy with the right ammo.
Browning SA-22
The Browning SA-22 is a classic semi-automatic rifle designed by John Browning himself. Slim, lightweight, and beautifully made, it’s a rifle that balances perfectly in the hands. For hunters, it offers quick handling and smooth cycling, making it great for fast-moving game like rabbits.
It’s also a takedown rifle, which makes it easy to pack for long trips into the field. While more expensive than many .22s, its proven track record and reliability keep it in the running for serious hunters.
Tikka T1x
The Tikka T1x is a newer entry into the bolt-action .22 market, but it has quickly earned respect. Known for its accuracy and smooth action, it gives you the precision needed for small targets at varying distances. The synthetic stock makes it durable in all weather conditions.
Hunters like its balance and feel, making it a natural rifle for long days in the field. It’s designed with the same quality standards as Tikka’s centerfire rifles, which shows in its performance and reliability.
Winchester Wildcat 22
The Winchester Wildcat 22 is a lightweight semi-auto designed for versatility in the field. Its simple controls and light build make it easy to carry, while the rifle maintains reliable cycling across different .22 loads. It’s a practical option for hunters who want a no-fuss rifle for small game.
The Wildcat’s design also makes it easy to maintain, which is important when you’re putting it through regular field use. For the price, it delivers a solid mix of accuracy and reliability.
Remington 572 Fieldmaster
The Remington 572 Fieldmaster is a pump-action .22 rifle, giving you a unique option for hunting. Its pump design makes it fast to cycle, and it can handle .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle cartridges, which adds versatility. The rifle’s accuracy and reliability have made it a favorite for decades.
For hunters who like the classic pump feel, the 572 offers speed and dependability in a platform that’s proven itself in the field. It’s a bit heavier than some other options, but that also helps with steady shooting.
Anschütz 1416
The Anschütz 1416 is a precision bolt-action rifle that brings target-level accuracy into the hunting world. While more expensive than most .22s, it’s built with the kind of quality that serious hunters appreciate. If you’re after consistent accuracy on small targets, it’s tough to beat.
The 1416 is also well-balanced and comfortable to carry, making it a legitimate option for field use. If you want a rifle that guarantees precision on small game, Anschütz has long been a trusted name.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
