What’s the best 22 Long Rifle gun? That’s a question with no single right answer. The “best” rifle really depends on what you’re doing with it. Are you plinking in the backyard, training for a competition, hunting small game, or just want something fun and classic for the range? Each of these calls for a different kind of rifle. Let’s break down some of the top options by what they do best, so you can find the right one for you.
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Best Semi Auto 22 Long Rifle Guns
The Ruger 10/22 remains the gold standard, and there’s a reason for that. The aftermarket support is unmatched – you can literally build an entirely different rifle using the same receiver. The basic carbine model gives you reliability with most ammunition types, reasonable accuracy for the price point, and that legendary Ruger durability. The takedown version adds portability without sacrificing much in terms of precision. Yes, the factory trigger could be better, but that’s easily addressed.
RUGER 10/22 22 LR Semi-Automatic Rifle
$291.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18.5"
- Barrel: Stainless steel
- Receiver: Stainless steel
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Gold Bead front, Adjustable rear
- Thread: N/A
- Weight: 4.2 lbs
If you’re looking for a good cheap 22 Long Rifle gun, you should consider the Rossi RS22 (we carry those at $165). It’s a pretty accurate plinker with classic styling and synthetic stock which makes it quite a lightweight gun – just over 4.5lbs unloaded. This Rossi boasts smooth cycling and reliable performance with proper cleaning. Accepts Mossberg 702 10rd magazines but there are 25rd options. While the RS22 doesn’t have the extensive aftermarket of the 10/22, it’s a great first-time 22 Long Rifle semi auto gun for casual shooting or small game hunting at 50-100 yards.
ROSSI RS22 22LR Semi-Automatic Rifle
$291.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Adjustable Fiber Optic Rear/Front Sights
- Thread: N/A
- Weight: 4.1 lbs
If you’re training with AR-pattern rifles or want to get younger shooters comfortable with those controls, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is your answer. The ergonomics mirror the AR-15 platform exactly, making it an excellent training rifle. Reliability with various ammunition types is excellent, though I’ve seen a few complaints about mags – not a deal-breaker, but something to be aware of.
SMITH & WESSON M&P 15-22 Sport MOE SL Rifle
$514.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 16.5"
- Capacity: 25rd
- Sights: Folding Magpul MBUS
- Thread: N/A
- Weight: 4.9 lbs
Then you have something a bit different like the Winchester Wildcat 22. This thing is super lightweight, compatible with 10/22 mags, and features tool-less disassembly meaning it’s very easy to maintain. One feature I really like is the last round bolt held open – it’s small yet cool. Though it’s not without downsides – not very good trigger out of the box, not much aftermarket support, and a lot of plastic parts, overall, it’s a good little rifle for plinking or small game. Plus, it’s more compact than the 10/22, which is a big plus for some.
WINCHESTER Wildcat 22LR Rimfire Rifle
$213.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Fully-adjustable ghost ring rear sight and ramped post front sight
- Thread: N/A
- Weight: 4 lbs
Best Bolt Action 22 Long Rifle Guns
If you’re chasing accuracy, a bolt-action is where you’ll want to look. Here, it’s all about the trigger, the barrel, and a stock that fits you just right. The Savage Arms Mark II has been a budget-friendly go-to for years. It’s not fancy, but it’s accurate out of the box, dependable, and has a surprisingly good trigger for the price. The variety of models means you can find exactly what you need without paying for features you won’t use. Left-handed options are available – something not every manufacturer offers.
SAVAGE Mark II G .22LR Bolt-Action Rifle
$268.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 21"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Open sights
- Thread: N/A
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
The Winchester Xpert is a good alternative to the Savage 22. The stock is similar to the Wildcat, however, the Xpert is a bolt-action 22LR rifle built for higher accuracy featuring a tighter chamber and an upgraded trigger. This build quality translates into one MOA accuracy at 100 yards, which is great for a rifle for a little over $200.
WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS Xpert Suppressor Ready 22LR Bolt-Action Rifle
$243.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Adjustable rear sight and ramped post front sight
- Thread: 1/2 - 28 SR
- Weight: 4.8 lbs
If you have a bit more to spend, the CZ 457 is legendary for its accuracy. The bolt is smooth as glass, the factory trigger is excellent, and it comes in a ton of different versions (the Varmint is probably the most popular). It’s a rifle that really punches above its weight class.
CZ 457 Varmint 22LR Turkish Walnut Rifle
$677.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 20.5"
- Capacity: 5rd
- Sights: No Sights, Integrated 11mm Dovetail
- Thread: 1/2 - 28 SR
- Weight: 7.08 lbs
The Tikka T1x is in a similar class – superb precision, a short bolt lift practical for rapid fire, and a great trigger. It also has a stainless bolt which reduces maintenance concerns. Build quality is exactly what you’d expect from Tikka – no surprises, just reliable performance. The threaded barrel comes standard.
TIKKA T1X .22 LR Bolt-Action Rimfire Rifle
$649.00
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 16"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: None, Drilled & Tapped
- Thread: 1/2"x28
- Weight: 6.40 lbs
If you’re aiming at competition-ready 22 Long Rifle guns, look at the Bergara BMR Steel (the Carbon version is good for hunting due to weight savings) and Proof Research Latitude. More options include the Masterpiece Matrix Pro and Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rimfire, which are pure competition rigs. Featuring highly adjustable chassis systems and match-grade components, they are built for one thing: putting rounds in the same hole.
BERGARA BMR Steel 22 Wmr Bolt Action Rifle
$649.00
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 WMR
- Barrel length: 20"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Rifled Sight
- Thread: 1/2"x28
Best Lever Action 22 Long Rifle Guns
There’s something special about working a lever – it’s just plain fun. Plus, compared to other actions, lever rifles don’t require much cleaning. Among the best 22 Long Rifle guns is, of course, the Henry Golden Boy, an iconic 22 lever gun with its brass receiver and buttery-smooth action. It’s well-made, reliable, and the brass actually serves a functional purpose beyond aesthetics – it won’t rust. Loading through the front of the magazine tube is slower than a detachable magazine, but that’s the trade-off for the traditional design. The standard Henry H001, while looking more modest, is just as great.
HENRY Classic .22 LR Lever Action Rifle
$355.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18.25"
- Capacity: 15rd
- Sights: Adjustable rear sight, hooded front sight
- Weight: 5.25 lbs
The Browning BL-22 is another standout, famous for exceptional craftsmanship and a short 33-degree lever throw that allows you to cycle the rifle super fast. What’s also great is that the BL22 has a good track record in handling a variety of ammunition reliably. The receiver is steel.
BROWNING BL-22 Grade I 22 LR Lever Action Rifle
$719.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 20"
- Capacity: 15rd
- Weight: 5 lbs
If you’re searching for an affordable 22LR lever rifle, consider the Rossi Rio Bravo. It’s not as smooth through the lever as Henry rifles or the BL-22, but still a good option for beginners. Along with traditional variants, there also are tactical models that feature an enlarged loop with paracord, threaded barrel, Pic rail atop, and M-Lok slots on the forend.
ROSSI Rio Bravo 22LR 18in 15rd Black Polymer Rifle
$234.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18"
- Capacity: 15rd
- Sights: Fiber optic and fully adjustable fiber optic
- Weight: 5.1 lbs
If you are willing to spend much more, you can try and look for a used Marlin 39A or Winchester 9422 – those are timeless rifles legendary for great accuracy and reliability.
Best Pump Action 22 Long Rifle Guns
Pump action may not come to your mind when you hear about 22LR rifles, but these are quite popular.
The Henry H003TM has that classic gallery gun feel. It’s dependable, has an excellent fit and finish, and just feels well-made. These rifles aren’t about tack-driving accuracy or tactical features; they’re about the pure joy of shooting. The only dealbreaker is the price.
HENRY 22WMR Pump Rifle
$580.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 20.5"
- Capacity: 12rd
- Sights: Brass Bead front, Fully Adj. Semi-Buckhorn w/ Diamond Insert rear
- Weight: 6 lbs
The Rossi Gallery is a cheaper alternative here. It offers decent performance for casual use, with smooth cycling and fiber optic sights. While the fit and finish are not as refined as the Henry, the Rossi is reliable for its price and can handle various .22LR ammo.
ROSSI Gallery 22 LR Rifle
$189.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 18"
- Capacity: 15rd
- Sights: Fiber Optic / Fully Adjustable Fiber Optic
- Weight: 5.1 lbs
Best Youth 22 Long Rifle Guns
Savage Rascal is specifically designed for young shooters. Single-shot operation eliminates complexity while teaching fundamental skills. The adjustable peep sights are better than the basic notch sights found on many youth rifles. Multiple color options help with enthusiasm, though function matters more than appearance.
The key with youth rifles is getting the dimensions right. Length of pull, weight, and reach to controls all matter more than they do with adult rifles. A rifle that doesn’t fit properly will create bad habits that are hard to break later.
SAVAGE Rascal .22LR Single Shot Bolt-Action Rifle
$154.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 16.12"
- Capacity: 1rd
- Sights: Adjustable peep sights
- Weight: 2.71 lbs
Best Survival 22 Long Rifle Guns for Preppers
Survival rifles prioritize portability and durability over everything else. The Henry AR-7 and Ruger 10/22 Takedown are the best in the category.
The Henry AR-7 is designed specifically as a survival rifle, with its lightweight, compact design and ability to store all components (barrel, receiver, and magazines) inside its waterproof stock. This makes it extremely portable and ideal for minimalist survival kits. Compared to Ruger, however, the accuracy is limited and capacity is lower (8 rounds vs. 10 standard) . The AR-7 works best with high-velocity ammunition.
HENRY REPEATING ARMS US Survival AR-7 22 LR Semi-Automatic Rifle
$274.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 16.5"
- Capacity: 8rd
- Sights: Adjustable Rear, Blade Front
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
The Ruger 10/22 Takedown is known for its reliability, accuracy, and extensive aftermarket support and customizability (for instance, you can get a 25 round magazine to extend max capacity). The stainless steel and synthetic stock versions are weather-resistant. While slightly bulkier than the AR-7, the 10/22 design is timeless.
RUGER 10/22 Takedown 22 LR Semi-Automatic Takedwon Rifle with Flash Suppressor
$453.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Barrel length: 16.6"
- Capacity: 10rd
- Sights: Gold Bead front, Adjustable rear
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
What Actually Matters
After working with these rifles extensively, a few things consistently separate the good from the mediocre:
Reliability with your chosen ammunition is non-negotiable. Some rifles are picky about what they’ll cycle reliably – know this before you buy cases of cheap ammunition.
Ergonomics affect your shooting more than most people realize. A rifle that doesn’t fit properly will never perform to its potential, regardless of its inherent accuracy.
Aftermarket support matters if you plan to modify or upgrade. The 10/22 dominates here, but consider whether you actually need extensive customization options.
Build quality shows up in longevity and consistency. Spending a bit more upfront often saves money in the long term through reduced maintenance and replacement needs.
The “best” .22 rifle is simply the one that does what you need it to do, consistently and without drama. Match your rifle choice to your actual needs, not what looks coolest or costs the most. A basic 10/22 that gets used regularly beats an expensive precision rifle that stays in the safe.
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