As a lifelong hunter and outdoor writer, I’ve spent countless hours in the woods, and one question consistently comes up: what’s the best 22 ammo for squirrels? It’s a deceptively complex question. While .22 Long Rifle is the go-to for small game, not all .22 LR ammunition is created equal. Selecting the right ammunition can significantly impact your accuracy, ethical harvest, and overall hunting experience. This guide will break down the options, covering everything from standard velocity to high-speed loads, and even touch on what to do if you find a squirrel barking at you – a surprisingly common occurrence! We’ll also look at how your rifle, like a Remington 504 22lr, plays a role in ammo selection.
Before diving into specific brands, let’s understand the different types of .22 LR ammunition available. This will help you narrow down your choices based on your hunting style and rifle.
Standard velocity ammunition is typically the most affordable and is excellent for general plinking and short-range squirrel hunting. It operates at a lower velocity (around 1080 fps) and produces less recoil, making it ideal for beginners and those who prioritize accuracy over range. It’s generally quieter, which can be an advantage in the woods. However, it can be less reliable in semi-automatic rifles if they aren’t properly adjusted. Remington offers a solid range of standard velocity options.
High velocity ammunition (around 1255 fps) offers a flatter trajectory and increased range, making it suitable for longer shots. It’s also more reliable in semi-automatic rifles. However, the increased velocity can lead to more recoil and a louder report. This is a good choice if you’re hunting in areas with longer sight lines or if your rifle prefers a more powerful load. CCI is well-known for its high-velocity offerings.
Subsonic ammunition travels at speeds below the speed of sound (approximately 1125 fps), resulting in a very quiet shot. This is ideal for hunting in sensitive areas or when you want to minimize disturbance. Subsonic ammo often requires a rifle with a longer barrel to stabilize the slower bullet. It’s also a good choice for use with a suppressor (where legal).
Match grade ammo refers to ammunition manufactured to extremely tight tolerances, resulting in exceptional consistency and accuracy. It’s typically more expensive than standard ammunition but can significantly improve your group sizes, especially with a quality rifle like the Remington 504 22lr. Match grade ammo is often used in competitive shooting but can also be beneficial for ethical hunting, ensuring a clean, one-shot kill. Brands like Lapua and Eley are renowned for their match-grade .22 LR offerings.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best .22 LR ammunition options for squirrel hunting, categorized by type:
Your rifle plays a crucial role in determining the best 22 ammo for squirrels. A Remington 504 22lr, for example, is a bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy. Bolt-action rifles generally tolerate a wider range of ammunition types than semi-automatic rifles.
Semi-automatic .22 rifles, like some models from Ruger, can be finicky about ammunition. They often require higher-velocity ammunition to cycle reliably. If your semi-automatic rifle is experiencing frequent failures to eject or feed, try switching to a higher-velocity load.
Bolt-action rifles are generally more forgiving and can reliably cycle a wider variety of ammunition types. This allows you to experiment with different loads to find the one that delivers the best accuracy in your specific rifle.
Longer barrels generally improve accuracy and velocity. If you have a rifle with a short barrel, you may want to stick with high-velocity or match-grade ammunition to maximize performance. Subsonic ammunition typically requires a longer barrel to stabilize properly.
Regardless of the ammunition you choose, ethical hunting practices are paramount. A clean, one-shot kill is the most humane outcome. Focus on head or chest shots for a quick and ethical harvest. Practice your shooting skills regularly to improve your accuracy and ensure you can consistently make ethical shots. Remember to always follow all local hunting regulations and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. The National Park Service provides information on hunting regulations in national parks, and your state’s wildlife agency will have specific rules for your area.
You might encounter a situation where a squirrel barking at me. This isn’t aggression, but a warning signal to other squirrels. They have excellent hearing and can detect your presence long before you see them. They’re essentially sounding the alarm! It’s a good indicator that you’ve been spotted, so slow down, move carefully, and scan the trees for other squirrels. Sometimes, remaining still for a few minutes can allow the squirrel to calm down and resume its activities. Don’t take it personally – they’re just protecting their territory!
Always practice Leave No Trace principles when hunting. Pack out everything you pack in, minimize your impact on the environment, and respect wildlife. Leave No Trace provides comprehensive guidelines for responsible outdoor recreation. This includes properly disposing of spent casings – pack them out with you.
| Ammunition Type | Velocity (fps) | Range | Recoil | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Velocity | 1080 | Short | Low | Low |
| High Velocity | 1255 | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Subsonic | Below 1125 | Short-Medium | Low | Medium-High |
| Match Grade | Varies | Medium-Long | Low-Medium | High |
Finding the best 22 ammo for squirrels is a process of experimentation. Consider your rifle, your hunting style, and your ethical obligations. Don’t be afraid to try different brands and types of ammunition to find the one that delivers the best accuracy and performance for you. Remember to prioritize safety, practice ethical hunting, and always respect the environment. For more information on small game hunting techniques, check out the USDA Forest Service's hunting resources. Happy hunting!
Disclaimer: Hunting regulations vary by state and locality. Always consult your local wildlife agency for the most up-to-date information.