Ever wonder what the best little rifle is for chasing those bushy-tailed acrobats through the trees? Squirrel hunting is a classic pastime, a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the thrill of the stalk. But when it comes to picking the perfect .22 rifle, it can feel like you’re lost in a forest of choices. So many different models, so many features to consider – it’s enough to make your head spin!
Many hunters find themselves frustrated by the overwhelming number of .22 options. They worry about making the wrong choice, spending money on a rifle that doesn’t shoot accurately or isn’t comfortable to handle. It’s a common problem, and one that can keep you from enjoying your time in the woods.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down what makes a .22 rifle great for squirrel hunting. By the end, you’ll understand the key features to look for, and you’ll feel confident choosing a rifle that’s perfect for you. Get ready to learn how to pick a winner and make your next squirrel hunt a success!
Our Top 5 22 For Squirrel Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 22 For Squirrel Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. Gamo Combo Pack Assorted Air Rifle Pellets
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to explore different shooting styles with your .22 caliber air rifle? The Gamo Combo Pack Assorted Air Rifle Pellets gives you four distinct pellet types to try. This pack includes TS-22, Hunter, Magnum, and Master Point pellets. Each type offers a unique weight and design for various shooting needs. You get a total of 950 pellets, making it a great value to test what works best for you and your air rifle.
What We Like:
- Variety of pellets lets you experiment with different shooting styles.
- Good value with a large number of pellets included.
- TS-22 pellets are designed for long-distance accuracy.
- Hunter, Magnum, and Master Point pellets focus on impact and energy.
- Perfect for plinking, target practice, and small pest control.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific grain weights for Hunter, Magnum, and Master Point pellets are the same (15.43 grains), which might limit the perceived variety for some users.
- The “Sport type: Exercise & Fitness” tag seems out of place for air rifle pellets and could be confusing.
This Gamo pellet combo pack is an excellent way to discover your preferred pellet for your .22 caliber air rifle. It provides a comprehensive selection for any shooter looking to improve their accuracy and understand pellet performance.
2. Primos Hunting Primos 373 Hunting Squirrel Buster Call Pack Green
Rating: 8.8/10
Want to attract squirrels for a better hunting experience? The Primos Hunting Primos 373 Hunting Squirrel Buster Call Pack Green is designed to do just that. This pack comes with multiple Primos Squirrel Buster Small Game Calls, all in a vibrant green color.
What We Like:
- This call is designed to sound like real squirrels. It makes a variety of noises like alarm barks, distress screams, and squirrel chatters. It can even mimic the squeals of grey squirrels and the chatter of fox squirrels.
- It’s super easy to use. Just shake it to make the sounds. This shaker style makes it simple for anyone to get the right squirrel noises.
- You get multiple calls in one pack, which is great. This means you have options to try different sounds to see what works best.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s easy to use, mastering all the different sounds might take a little practice. Some hunters might find it takes time to get the perfect squirrel imitation.
- The green color is bright. While it might be easy to find in the woods, some hunters prefer more natural colors to stay hidden.
The Primos Squirrel Buster Call Pack offers a simple way to bring squirrels closer. If you’re looking to improve your squirrel hunting, this pack is a tool worth considering.
3. Hunters Specialties Squirrel Call – Easy One-Handed Effective Operation Versatile Realistic Squirrel Sounds Game Call
Rating: 9.2/10
The Hunters Specialties Squirrel Call is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves to hunt squirrels. It’s designed to sound like real squirrels, and you can make it do different noises like barks and chatters. This makes it easier to get squirrels to come closer to you.
What We Like:
- It sounds very realistic. It imitates both fox and gray squirrels with barks, chatters, and even baby squirrel sounds.
- It works for different kinds of squirrels and hunting situations. You can change the sounds to match what squirrels are doing.
- It’s super easy to use. Even if you’ve never used a game call before, you can make it work right away.
- You can use it no matter the weather. Rain, wind, or cold won’t stop it from making good sounds.
- It’s great for many types of calls. You can make alarm sounds, normal chatters, and distress calls.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions “easy one-handed operation,” but doesn’t go into detail about how it’s specifically designed for this.
- While versatile, the description doesn’t specify if there are any limitations to the sound range for specific squirrel species or behaviors.
This squirrel call is a must-have for hunters. It helps you get closer to your target with its realistic sounds and simple design.
4. Thompson Target Life Size Squirrel 9×12 Inch Premium Paper Hunting Shooting Targets for Range Training – Made in The USA (12 Pack)
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to sharpen your hunting skills? The Thompson Target Life Size Squirrel targets offer a super realistic way to practice. These 9×12 inch targets show a fox squirrel in a natural pose, making your training feel more like the real thing. They are perfect for anyone wanting to improve their aim before hitting the woods.
What We Like:
- REALISTIC & LIFE-SIZE: The detailed squirrel illustrations look just like the real deal.
- ULTRA BRIGHT FLUORESCENT RED: The bright red aiming point stands out clearly against the target.
- CLEAR AIM POINT: You can easily see your sights and where your shots land in the kill zone.
- THICK BRIGHT UNCOATED PAPER: The sturdy paper reduces tears from bullets and doesn’t glare in the sun. It gives a crisp image downrange.
- MADE IN THE USA: These targets are made right here in Ohio, supporting American jobs and manufacturing.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the paper is thick, very high-powered rounds might still cause significant tearing.
- The life-size aspect is great for practice, but for younger shooters or those just starting, slightly larger targets might be more encouraging.
These Thompson Target Squirrels are a fantastic tool for any hunter looking to improve their accuracy. They offer a realistic and effective practice session every time you head to the range.
5. Halo Life Size Squirrel – Reactive Splatter Gun Hunting Shooting Targets 8.5 x 11 Inches (20 Pack)
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to improve your aim with the Halo Life Size Squirrel Reactive Splatter Gun Hunting Shooting Targets! This 20-pack of targets brings a realistic feel to your practice sessions. Each target measures a convenient 8.5 x 11 inches, making them easy to handle and set up. They are printed in the USA on sturdy cardstock, ensuring they can withstand plenty of shooting.
What We Like:
- BIGGER BURSTS!!! These targets offer exciting, large splatter marks so you can see your hits clearly.
- Bolder high contrast inks make the targets stand out, even from a distance.
- Every hit is marked by a bright white halo, giving instant feedback on your accuracy.
- Printed on high quality cardstock, these targets are built to last through many shooting practices.
- Proudly Made in the U.S.A.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the splatter is great, some shooters might prefer even larger target designs for long-range practice.
- The life-size squirrel might not be ideal for all types of shooting practice, like practicing for larger game.
These Halo Life Size Squirrel targets are a fantastic way to make practice more engaging and help you hone your shooting skills. They provide clear, immediate feedback that’s essential for improvement.
Your Guide to Picking the Best Gear for ’22 Squirrel Hunting
Squirrel hunting is a fun and rewarding outdoor activity. To make your experience even better, you need the right gear. This guide will help you choose the best equipment for the 2022 squirrel hunting season.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for squirrel hunting gear, keep these important features in mind.
Clothing
- Camouflage: Good camouflage helps you blend in with nature. This makes it harder for squirrels to see you.
- Quiet Fabric: You want clothes that don’t make a lot of noise when you move. Rustling fabric can scare squirrels away.
- Durability: Squirrel hunting often means walking through brush. Your clothes should be tough and last a long time.
- Water Resistance: Sometimes you’ll hunt in damp weather. Water-resistant clothes keep you dry.
- Comfort: You’ll be spending time outdoors, so comfort is key. Layers are great for adjusting to different temperatures.
Footwear
- Traction: Good grip on your boots prevents slips and falls, especially on uneven ground.
- Waterproofing: Keep your feet dry and comfortable, even if you step in puddles or wet leaves.
- Ankle Support: Boots that support your ankles help prevent injuries when you’re walking.
- Lightweight: You’ll be doing a lot of walking. Lighter boots mean less fatigue.
Firearms and Ammunition
- Caliber: For squirrels, smaller calibers like .22 LR or .17 HMR are popular. They are accurate and manage recoil well.
- Rifle Type: Bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles are good choices. Bolt-action rifles are often more accurate.
- Scope: A good scope helps you aim accurately at longer distances. Look for one with clear magnification.
- Ammunition Type: Hollow-point or soft-point bullets expand on impact, which helps humanely take down squirrels.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in your gear make a big difference.
- Clothing: Look for fabrics like polyester, nylon, and treated cotton blends. These are often quiet, durable, and water-resistant.
- Footwear: Leather and synthetic materials are common. Waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex are excellent for keeping feet dry. Rubber soles provide good traction.
- Firearms: Rifles are typically made from steel and durable polymer or wood stocks.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Knowing what affects quality helps you make smart choices.
What Makes Gear Better:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better materials and have higher manufacturing standards.
- Stitching and Construction: Look for strong seams and well-made products.
- Advanced Features: Things like breathable waterproof membranes in jackets or adjustable scopes on rifles improve the experience.
- User Reviews: Reading what other hunters say can give you honest feedback.
What Makes Gear Less Good:
- Cheap Materials: Thin fabrics or low-quality plastic can break easily.
- Poor Craftsmanship: Flimsy construction means your gear might not last long.
- Lack of Key Features: Gear without good camouflage or proper waterproofing will not perform as well.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your gear impacts your enjoyment and success.
Clothing and Footwear Experience:
Comfortable and quiet clothing means you can stay out longer and move more freely. Good boots keep your feet happy on long walks. If your gear is noisy or doesn’t fit well, you’ll be distracted and might scare the squirrels away.
Firearm Experience:
An accurate rifle with a good scope helps you make clean shots. Easy-to-handle firearms with manageable recoil make shooting more enjoyable. If your rifle is hard to aim or jams, it can be frustrating.
Use Cases:
- Early Morning Hunts: You might need warm layers and water-resistant gear for dew-covered fields.
- Afternoon Stalks: Lighter clothing might be better for warmer weather.
- Hunting in Different Terrains: Boots with excellent traction are crucial for hilly or muddy areas.
- Target Practice: Regularly practice with your rifle to improve accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best type of camouflage for squirrel hunting?
A: The best camouflage is one that matches the environment where you are hunting. Patterns with browns, greens, and grays work well in most wooded areas.
Q: Do I really need waterproof boots?
A: Yes, waterproof boots are highly recommended. They keep your feet dry and comfortable, which is important for long days in the field, especially if there’s dew or recent rain.
Q: What is a good caliber for squirrel hunting?
A: Popular calibers for squirrel hunting include .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) and .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR). They are accurate and have manageable recoil.
Q: How important is quiet clothing?
A: Quiet clothing is very important. Squirrels have excellent hearing, and noisy fabric can easily alert them to your presence, causing them to flee.
Q: Should I buy a rifle scope?
A: A rifle scope can significantly improve your accuracy, especially at longer distances. It helps you see the target clearly and make more precise shots.
Q: What kind of ammunition should I use?
A: Hollow-point or soft-point ammunition is recommended for squirrels. These bullet types expand upon impact, which helps ensure a humane and quick takedown.
Q: How can I test the quality of clothing before buying?
A: Feel the fabric to check its thickness and how quiet it sounds when rubbed together. Look for strong stitching and durable zippers.
Q: What if I’m hunting in very cold weather?
A: You will need to layer your clothing. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating middle layer like fleece, and finish with a windproof and water-resistant outer shell.
Q: Is it okay to use a shotgun for squirrels?
A: While shotguns can be used, they are generally more suited for larger game. For squirrels, a .22 rifle is often preferred for its accuracy and ability to make cleaner shots at a distance.
Q: How often should I clean my rifle?
A: It’s best to clean your rifle after every hunting trip, especially if you’ve been in wet or dusty conditions. Regular cleaning keeps it in good working order and ensures accuracy.
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!