Where to shoot a .22 and the legal basics
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.
General information, not legal advice. State and local laws vary.
- Ranges and clubs: the easiest start, with backstops and range officers. NRL22 clubs also run monthly matches[NRL22 FAQ]. See competitions.
- Public and private land: rules vary by agency and county; get landowner permission and follow backstop rules[Hunter-ed.com].
- Buying: rifles from dealers go through a background check, and out-of-state purchases have specific federal rules[ATF firearms Q&A]. See buying a rifle online.
- Hunting: rimfires are generally legal for small game but not big game. See rimfire hunting regulations.
- Suppressors: how to buy a suppressor in 2026 · suppressor hunting laws.