Imagine this: you’re out in the crisp morning air, the woods are waking up, and a bushy tail twitches on a nearby branch. You’ve got your trusty .22 rifle, but then the big question hits you: what’s the best .22 ammo for squirrel hunting? It can feel like trying to pick a needle out of a haystack with so many different types of bullets out there.
Choosing the wrong ammo can lead to frustrating misses, wounded game, and a generally less enjoyable hunting experience. You want something that’s accurate, humane, and won’t break the bank. But how do you know which one will do the job right? That’s where this guide comes in.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key differences between popular .22 ammo types and learn what makes them great for chasing squirrels. We’ll break down what to look for so you can confidently pick the perfect rounds for your next hunting trip. Let’s get started and find the best .22 ammo to help you fill your game bag!
Our Top 5 22 Ammo For Squirrel Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Gamo Combo Pack Assorted Air Rifle Pellets | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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TACBRO®.22 Ammo Box 5pack | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Rifle Ammo Box 22-25 | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Kinghardcase 680 Rounds 22LR Ammo Storage Case with Dessicant | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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TAMINSTY 2-Pack 22 Caliber Ammo Belt | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 22 Ammo For Squirrel Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. Gamo Combo Pack Assorted Air Rifle Pellets
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to explore the world of .22 caliber air rifle shooting with this awesome Gamo Combo Pack! This pack is your ticket to trying out four different types of pellets, all designed to give you a great shooting experience. Whether you’re aiming for accuracy or power, this combo pack has something for everyone. It’s a fantastic way to see which pellet works best for your rifle and your shooting style.
What We Like:
- Great variety: You get four different types of .22 caliber pellets to try.
- Good for testing: It helps you find your favorite pellet for your air rifle.
- TS-22 pellets: These are good for long-distance shooting.
- Hunter, Magnum, and Master Point pellets: These offer different weights and designs for various uses.
- Value for money: It’s a good way to get a selection of pellets without buying large amounts of each.
What Could Be Improved:
- Exact pellet weights can vary slightly: Sometimes the listed weight might not be perfectly exact for every single pellet.
- Limited information on specific uses: While they are labeled, more detailed descriptions of each pellet’s best application could be helpful.
This Gamo Combo Pack is an excellent starting point for any .22 caliber air rifle enthusiast. It provides a diverse range of options to enhance your shooting practice.
2. TACBRO®.22 Ammo Box 5pack
Rating: 8.6/10
The TACBRO®.22 Ammo Box 5pack is a handy way to keep your .22 caliber ammunition organized and protected. This pack comes with five individual boxes, making it simple to store and transport your .22 rounds.
What We Like:
- These ammo boxes are lightweight, which makes them easy to carry around.
- They are built to be durable, so they can handle being used often.
- The boxes are designed to be simple to use, so you won’t have any trouble opening or closing them.
- The price point is very reasonable, offering good value for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- Availability can sometimes be limited, so you might need to look around to find them.
These TACBRO® ammo boxes are a solid option for any shooter who needs a reliable way to store their .22 ammunition. Their durability and ease of use make them a practical choice for keeping your rounds safe and sound.
3. MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Rifle Ammo Box 22-25
Rating: 9.2/10
Keep your rifle ammunition organized and protected with the MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Rifle Ammo Box. This tough box holds 100 rounds of popular rifle calibers like .22-250, .308 Winchester, and .243. Its clear green and black design lets you easily see your ammo, and the textured surface resists scuffs. The strong snap-lock latch keeps everything secure, and stacking feet allow you to neatly pile multiple boxes.
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What We Like:
- It holds a lot of ammo – 100 rounds!
- The textured surface prevents scratches and makes it easy to grip.
- The snap-lock latch keeps the box securely closed.
- Stacking feet make storage neat and tidy.
- It comes with a generous 25-year guarantee.
- The mechanical hinge is built to last.
- Load labels help you keep track of what’s inside.
- It’s made right here in the USA.
- The maximum overall length of 3.05 inches fits many common rounds.
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What Could Be Improved:
- The clear green color might not be everyone’s favorite.
This ammo box is a reliable and practical solution for any shooter. It offers excellent protection and organization for your valuable ammunition.
4. Kinghardcase 680 Rounds 22LR Ammo Storage Case with Dessicant
Rating: 9.3/10
Keep your .22LR ammunition safe and sound with the Kinghardcase 680 Rounds Ammo Storage Case. This tough box is designed for serious shooters and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable protection for their valuable rounds.
What We Like:
- It holds a huge amount of ammo – up to 680 rounds of .22LR!
- The case comes with two trays and a divider to keep everything neatly organized.
- It’s built tough and can handle drops and even submersion in water (up to 1 meter).
- The seal keeps moisture and dust out, protecting your ammo from the elements.
- It’s a good size for travel and fits various .22 caliber rounds.
- The handles make it easy to carry wherever you go.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember, the case doesn’t actually come with any bullets.
- The compatibility is for specific bullet sizes, so double-check your ammo.
The Kinghardcase ammo box offers excellent protection and organization for your .22LR ammunition. It’s a solid choice for anyone who needs a durable and reliable way to store and transport their rounds.
5. TAMINSTY 2-Pack 22 Caliber Ammo Belt
Rating: 8.8/10
The TAMINSTY 2-Pack 22 Caliber Ammo Belt is a handy accessory for any shooter. It securely holds your ammunition, keeping it organized and within easy reach. This belt slide holster is designed to be tough and flexible, making it perfect for hunting or a day at the shooting range.
What We Like:
- Sturdy and flexible, made with strong nylon and stitching for durability.
- Holds 20 rounds of various .22 caliber ammunition, including .22 LR, .22 WRF, and 10/22.
- Keeps your bullets secure, preventing them from falling out or getting damaged.
- Ambidextrous design fits belts up to 2.5 inches wide, making it easy to carry.
- A great alternative to bulky speed loader pouches.
- Comes in a convenient 2-pack.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions 5.56mm compatibility, but the primary focus and features are on .22 caliber rounds; this could be confusing for users seeking 5.56mm solutions.
Overall, this ammo belt is a practical and reliable way to carry your ammunition. It offers great value and convenience for shooters of all levels.
Choosing the Best .22 Ammo for Squirrel Hunting
Getting ready for squirrel season? Picking the right .22 ammo makes a big difference. It helps you hunt safely and effectively. This guide will help you find the perfect rounds for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for .22 ammo for squirrels, keep these things in mind:
- **Caliber:** You’ll be using .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR). This is the most common and widely available .22 caliber.
- **Bullet Type:** For squirrels, you want a bullet that expands or fragments on impact. This helps humanely take down your target with a clean shot.
- **Bullet Weight:** Lighter bullets (like 30-40 grains) often travel faster. This can lead to a flatter trajectory, meaning you don’t have to aim as high at longer distances.
- **Velocity:** High-velocity rounds are good for squirrels. They hit harder and often expand better.
- **Accuracy:** You need ammo that shoots straight. Consistent accuracy means more successful shots.
Important Materials
The materials in .22 LR ammo affect how it performs.
- **Bullet Construction:** Most .22 LR bullets have a lead core. They are usually jacketed with copper to prevent lead fouling in your rifle’s barrel.
- **Hollow-Point (HP) Design:** This is a crucial feature for squirrel hunting. The hollow tip of the bullet is designed to mushroom or expand upon hitting the target. This creates a larger wound channel for a quicker takedown.
- **Cartridge Casing:** The brass casing holds everything together. It needs to be strong and well-made for reliable firing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make .22 ammo better or worse for squirrel hunting.
- **Manufacturing Consistency:** Ammo made with precise machines and strict quality control shoots more accurately. Inconsistent ammo can lead to missed shots.
- **Bullet Integrity:** Bullets that are perfectly formed and seated in the casing will fly truer. Damaged bullets or loose casings are a sign of poor quality.
- **Powder Charge:** The amount of gunpowder in each cartridge affects its speed and power. Consistent powder charges lead to predictable performance.
- **Brand Reputation:** Well-known ammo brands often have a history of producing reliable and high-quality products.
User Experience and Use Cases
What’s it like to use different .22 ammo for squirrels?
- **Hollow-Points:** These are the top choice for squirrel hunters. They create a quick and humane kill. When a hollow-point bullet hits a squirrel, the tip flattens out and expands. This makes the wound bigger.
- **Plated Lead:** Some .22 LR bullets have a thin copper plating. This can reduce barrel leading, which is when lead builds up inside your gun. It also helps with accuracy.
- **Target vs. Hunting Ammo:** Target ammo is made for accuracy at the range. Hunting ammo is designed to expand and do more damage to the game. For squirrels, hunting ammo is best.
- **Practice:** Even with the best hunting ammo, practice is key. Use less expensive bulk ammo for practice sessions to hone your aiming skills. Then, switch to your preferred hunting rounds when you’re in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best .22 LR bullet type for squirrels?
A: Hollow-point (HP) bullets are the best. They expand on impact for a quick and humane kill.
Q: Should I use high-velocity or standard-velocity .22 LR ammo for squirrels?
A: High-velocity ammo is generally better for squirrels. It hits harder and often expands more effectively.
Q: Does bullet weight matter for squirrel hunting?
A: Yes, lighter bullets (30-40 grains) are often preferred because they travel faster and have a flatter trajectory.
Q: Can I use bulk .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting?
A: It depends. Some bulk ammo is good enough, but it’s best to check reviews for accuracy and performance. Dedicated hunting ammo is usually more reliable.
Q: What is barrel leading, and how does it affect my rifle?
A: Barrel leading is when lead builds up inside your rifle’s barrel. It can reduce accuracy and make cleaning harder.
Q: How does the brand of .22 ammo affect its quality?
A: Reputable brands tend to have better quality control, leading to more consistent and accurate ammunition.
Q: Is .22 LR rimfire ammo suitable for squirrels?
A: Yes, .22 LR rimfire is the standard and most effective caliber for squirrels.
Q: What is the effective range of .22 LR for squirrels?
A: With accurate shooting and the right ammo, .22 LR is effective for squirrels out to about 50-75 yards.
Q: How important is accuracy when hunting squirrels with a .22?
A: Accuracy is very important. You want to make clean, ethical shots to humanely take down your target.
Q: Should I clean my rifle more often when using .22 LR ammo?
A: It’s good practice to clean your rifle regularly, especially after shooting. Some ammo types might leave more residue than others.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!