The Joys of 22 Plinking

Most of us started plinking in our youth, shooting soda cans off a fence post with our trusted .22 rifle, but these days? It’s taken a whole new form. With such a wide variety of targets (steel, for the win), firearm and accessory options as far as the eye can see, not to mention the latest technology in ammunition, it’s about time to dust off your favorite rimfire gun for a day at the range.

THE GUNS

If you’re new to the world of plinking, here are a few great starter rifles and handguns to buy or rent at the range.

rifle with a shot target, eye and ear protection, and 22 Target ammo

The Ruger 10/22 is simple to use and a world of fun to shoot. These rifles come with a ten round rotary magazine so you can spend more time shooting and less time reloading. Get it here.
If you’re wanting to shoot something more tactical, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is a great choice. This gun is lightweight, has a 25-round magazine, and includes the MAGPUL folding sights, or a factory mounted red-green dot optic. Available here.
Looking to satisfy your passion for Western shooting? The Ruger Wrangler .22 revolver is a popular choice among SASS members, new and old. This easy-to-handle single-action rimfire revolver is flat out a great time at the range. The cold hammer-forged barrel ensures accuracy and longevity so you can live out your cowboy dreams for as long as possible. Discover the various options here.
f you call yourself a classic shooter, The Henry Golden Boy is the way to go. The lever action brings the sweet nostalgia of your childhood that you can share with future generations. Plus, it comes in a youth model so you can take the kiddos to the range for endless plinking. Get it here.

THE AMMUNITION

What’s a gun without ammunition? See our picks below for the best .22 rounds, no matter what your pursuit.

person with a handful of Remington rimfire cartridges

Legendary 22 Golden Bullet are engineered for easy cycling and solid performance. High velocity increases downrange energy, extending your effective range. Plus, an improved priming compound ensures consistent ignition at a great value. These rounds come in plated round nose and hollow point bullets, making them a great option for varmint hunting as well as plinking.
22 Thunderbolts have become the longstanding favorite of 22 owners the world over. These round nose bullets in high-velocity loads cover the broadest range of 22-caliber excitement.
These 40-grain round nose bullets are propelled by powder and primer charges of exacting consistency. For the more experienced shooter, 22 Target delivers match-grade precision and championship performance in every round.

THE TARGETS

We’ve got the guns and we’ve got the ammunition. Check, annnnnd check. Now it’s time to take aim.

Reactive targets are trending in the plinking world, and for good reason. Besides elevating your range experience, they’re a great way to track your accuracy and precision. Most reactive targets incorporate motion in one form or another. Think spinners and knock-downs. Compete with a friend or go solo. Check out these options to post up in your backyard or load up and take to a buddy’s farm.

Paper targets are old school but will always withstand the test of time thanks to their affordability and a variety of graphics and twists on the classic bullseye. Think boardgames –– but at the range. Here are some fun takes on paper targets:

On a budget? There’s no shame in keeping it old school. Classic targets are things you can probably find in your trashcan or the recycling bin and repurpose. Here are some favorite classic rimfire targets. Just don’t forget to clean up after yourself and leave no trace.

Soda cans
Bottles/milk jugs
Tin cans (canned foods, shaving cream, empty spray paint cans)
Pumpkins
Paintballs on golf tees