What rimfires are used for: plinking, small game, pest control and training
Written in our own words from the sources cited after each fact. We haven't run hands-on tests for this page; where sources disagree we say so. Prefer the primary source (SAAMI, the maker, the governing body) if anything here conflicts with it.
- Plinking: low recoil and cheap ammo make the .22 LR the default range rifle. American Rifleman calls the .22 LR the most popular cartridge in the world[American Rifleman]. Guides: plinking.
- Small game: squirrels and rabbits with .22 LR; the magnums stretch range for varmints. Regulations vary by state: rimfire hunting regulations. American Rifleman notes some states still specify .22 Short for night raccoon hunting with dogs[American Rifleman].
- Pest control: the .17 HMR and .22 WMR are the usual varmint choices. American Hunter describes the .17 HMR as effective to about 200 yd on varmints[American Hunter].
- Training: trainers like the Bergara B-14R and Tikka T1x copy centerfire rifles' layout so skills carry over. See T1x as a T3x trainer.
- Competition: see rimfire competitions.