Ever wondered what makes a squirrel scamper away in a flash or stay put for a perfect shot? For many hunters, the answer lies in the right ammunition. Choosing the best .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting can feel like navigating a maze. You want something that’s accurate enough to hit a small target, but not so powerful that it ruins your prize. It’s a common challenge for hunters to find that sweet spot.
This is where understanding your .22 LR options becomes key. We’ll break down what makes certain rounds better for this specific type of hunting. You’ll learn about bullet types, grain weights, and how they all affect your success in the field. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in picking the ammo that helps you bring home dinner or simply enjoy a day in nature with a well-placed shot.
So, let’s dive in and explore the world of .22 LR rounds, specifically tailored for the cunning squirrel. Get ready to sharpen your knowledge and improve your hunting game!
Our Top 5 22 Lr Ammo For Squirrel Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 22 Lr Ammo For Squirrel Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. A-Zoom Azoom 22 LR Dummy Rounds 10 Pack 10-Pack Precision Dummy Rounds Fits 22 LR Action Proving
Rating: 8.8/10
The A-Zoom Azoom 22 LR Dummy Rounds 10 Pack is a fantastic tool for anyone who owns a .22 LR firearm. These dummy rounds are designed to help you practice loading and training safely. They are the exact size of real .22 LR ammunition, so they feel just like the real thing. This makes them perfect for practicing your shooting drills without using live rounds. They are also great for teaching new shooters how to handle firearms safely. The pack comes with ten dummy rounds, giving you plenty to work with during your practice sessions. You can also use them for safe storage, ensuring your firearm is unloaded and ready for safe handling.
What We Like:
- Practice loading & training: You can practice loading and unloading your firearm repeatedly without any risk.
- Ideal for hunters: Hunters can use these to practice their quick-draw techniques or to get used to the feel of their rifle or pistol.
- Exact size of real ammo: They mimic the dimensions of live .22 LR rounds, providing a realistic training experience.
- Safe storage: They help you confirm your firearm is unloaded and safe to handle or store.
What Could Be Improved:
- Durability: While generally good, some users report minor wear and tear after extensive use.
- Color visibility: A brighter color might make them easier to spot if dropped in grass or dirt during outdoor practice.
Overall, the A-Zoom Azoom 22 LR Dummy Rounds offer a safe and effective way to improve your firearm handling skills. They are a valuable addition to any shooter’s practice kit.
2. Krevis Buttstock 22 Ammo Rifle Sleeve (Tan)
Rating: 8.8/10
The Krevis Buttstock 22 Ammo Rifle Sleeve in Tan is a handy accessory for any rifle owner. It’s designed to keep your extra ammunition close by. This makes reloading faster when you’re out hunting or at the shooting range. The tan color blends well with many rifle stocks, offering a discreet look.
What We Like:
- The sleeve attaches easily to most rifle buttstocks in just a few seconds.
- It holds rifle rounds securely within easy reach, so you don’t have to fumble for extra ammo.
- This sleeve fits a wide variety of rifle cartridges, including common ones like 22LR and 17MR.
- It’s lightweight, adding no extra bulk to your rifle.
- The elastic design makes it very convenient to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember that ammunition is not included with the sleeve.
This rifle sleeve offers great convenience for shooters. It’s a simple yet effective way to improve your shooting experience.
3. WM 22 lr Ammo Box 100 Round .25 ACP 10/22 .22LR
Rating: 8.7/10
Keeping your small-caliber ammunition organized and safe is important for any shooter. The WM 22 lr Ammo Box 100 Round .25 ACP 10/22 .22LR is designed to do just that. This sturdy box holds up to 100 rounds and is made from strong, high-quality plastic. It’s a practical solution for storing your .22 LR and .25 ACP rounds, making them easy to find and transport.
What We Like:
- It holds a good amount of ammo: 100 rounds fit inside.
- The box is made of tough plastic that will last.
- It works for two popular calibers: .22 LR and .25 ACP.
- The simple design makes it easy to open and close.
- It helps keep your ammo neat and protected from the elements.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic could be a bit thicker for extra protection.
- More color options would be nice to help tell different ammo types apart easily.
- A secure latch would make it even better for rough handling.
This ammo box is a solid choice for keeping your .22 LR and .25 ACP rounds organized. It offers good value for keeping your ammunition in one place.
4. TAMINSTY 2-Pack 22 Caliber Ammo Belt
Rating: 9.4/10
The TAMINSTY 2-Pack 22 Caliber Ammo Belt is a handy accessory for any shooter. It securely holds your bullets, keeping them organized and easy to reach. This belt slide holster is designed to fit most standard belts and offers a convenient way to carry extra ammunition for hunting or shooting practice.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong nylon that won’t slip. The stitching is tough, so it will last a long time.
- It holds your bullets tight, so they won’t fall out when you move around.
- It fits many different bullet sizes like .22 LR, .22 WRF, and even some others.
- It’s ambidextrous, meaning anyone can use it comfortably.
- It fits on belts up to 2.5 inches wide.
- It’s a good alternative to carrying a bulky pouch.
- You get two of them in a pack.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions 5.56mm, but the features clearly focus on .22 caliber rounds. This could be confusing for buyers looking for 5.56mm.
- The product description mentions “20 Rounds Cartridge Loop Holder Belt Slide Holster” and then later says “this 12 rounds cartridge holder.” It’s unclear if each belt holds 12 or 20 rounds.
This ammo belt is a solid choice for keeping your .22 caliber ammunition organized and accessible. It offers good value and durability for its price.
5. Steelworx 22 LR Steel Snap Caps Dummy Rounds (12RedTip)
Rating: 8.8/10
Want to practice shooting safely? The Steelworx 22 LR Steel Snap Caps Dummy Rounds (12RedTip) are here to help. These dummy rounds look and feel just like real bullets. They let you practice loading, firing, and even clearing a misfire without using actual ammunition. This is great for learning how to handle your firearm safely. The bright red tips make them easy to see. You get 12 in a pack, so you have plenty for practice.
What We Like:
- Practice safely: These dummy rounds let you practice loading and firing without real bullets.
- Realistic feel: They load and handle just like real ammunition.
- Durable build: Made from precision stainless steel with a soft steel rim for lasting use.
- Safe storage: You can practice safe storage and handling of your firearm.
- Good value: You get 12 dummy rounds, which is a good amount for practice.
- Easy to spot: The red tips make them easy to see, which is helpful during practice sessions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited caliber options: This specific set is only for .22 LR.
- Rim durability: While the rim is soft steel, it might show wear over many uses.
These Steelworx snap caps are a smart tool for any shooter who wants to improve their skills safely. They offer a realistic practice experience at a good price.
Choosing the Right .22 LR Ammo for Your Squirrel Hunt
Squirrel hunting is a classic pastime that’s fun for beginners and experienced hunters alike. It requires patience, good aim, and, of course, the right ammunition. For your .22 LR rifle, selecting the best .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting can make a big difference in your success and the overall experience. This guide will help you understand what to look for.
Key Features to Look For in .22 LR Squirrel Hunting Ammo
When you’re out in the field, you want ammo that performs reliably and humanely. Here are the key features to keep in mind:
- Bullet Type: For squirrels, hollow-point bullets are generally recommended. They expand on impact, creating a larger wound channel. This helps to ensure a quick and clean harvest.
- Velocity: Ammunition comes in different speeds, like sub-sonic, standard velocity, and hyper-velocity. For squirrels, standard velocity or slightly faster rounds are often ideal. They offer a good balance of power and accuracy without excessive noise or ricochet risk.
- Accuracy: Consistent accuracy is crucial. You want ammo that groups well at typical squirrel hunting distances. This means the bullets fly close together when you shoot.
- Reliability: The ammo needs to feed smoothly in your rifle and fire every time. You don’t want misfires when a squirrel is in your sights.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used in .22 LR cartridges affect their performance:
- Bullet Material: Most .22 LR bullets are made of lead. However, some may have a copper plating (copper-jacketed). For squirrels, unjacketed or lightly plated lead hollow-point bullets are often preferred because they deform more easily for better expansion.
- Case Material: The casing is usually made of brass. This is standard and doesn’t significantly impact squirrel hunting performance.
- Propellant: The powder inside the casing determines the bullet’s speed. Different powders create different velocities.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can influence the quality of your .22 LR squirrel hunting ammo:
- Improved Quality:
- Tight Tolerances: Ammo manufactured with very precise measurements generally shoots more accurately.
- Consistent Powder Charges: When each cartridge has the same amount of powder, shots are more predictable.
- Quality Control: Reputable manufacturers have strict quality control to ensure consistency.
- Reduced Quality:
- Inconsistent Bullet Weight: Bullets that vary in weight can lead to unpredictable flight paths.
- Poorly Seated Bullets: If bullets aren’t seated straight in the casing, accuracy suffers.
- Manufacturing Defects: Flaws in the casing or primer can cause malfunctions.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many hunters find that certain types of .22 LR ammo work best for squirrels.
- Hollow-Point Advantage: Users report that hollow-point bullets are more effective on squirrels. They create a wider impact and help prevent over-penetration, which can be a concern with smaller game.
- Standard Velocity for Control: Standard velocity rounds are often praised for their balance. They are accurate enough for headshots at common squirrel hunting ranges (usually under 50 yards) and produce less muzzle blast than hyper-velocity rounds. This makes them easier to shoot accurately and safer for the shooter and bystanders.
- Sub-Sonic Considerations: While sub-sonic ammo is quieter, it can sometimes be less accurate or lack the energy needed for a clean harvest at longer ranges. It’s often best suited for very close shots or situations where noise is a major concern.
- Practice vs. Hunting: Many hunters use less expensive, standard bulk ammo for practice to save money. Then, they switch to premium hunting-specific hollow-point rounds for actual hunting trips.
Choosing the right .22 LR ammo is an important step in successful and ethical squirrel hunting. By understanding these features and factors, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your time in the woods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About .22 LR Ammo for Squirrel Hunting
Q: What is the best bullet type for squirrel hunting with a .22 LR?
A: Hollow-point bullets are generally the best. They expand on impact, creating a larger wound for a quick and humane harvest.
Q: Should I use sub-sonic, standard velocity, or hyper-velocity .22 LR ammo for squirrels?
A: Standard velocity rounds usually offer the best balance of accuracy and power for squirrels. Hyper-velocity can be too much, and sub-sonic might lack enough energy for clean shots at typical ranges.
Q: How does the material of the bullet affect its performance on squirrels?
A: Lead bullets, especially hollow-point ones, are preferred because they deform easily on impact, which is good for small game.
Q: Can I use the same .22 LR ammo for practice and hunting?
A: Many hunters use less expensive bulk ammo for practice to save money. They then switch to more specialized hunting ammo for actual hunts to ensure the best performance.
Q: What does “accuracy” mean when talking about .22 LR ammo?
A: Accuracy refers to how closely the bullets land together when you shoot. Good accuracy means the rounds group tightly for precise shots.
Q: Is it important for .22 LR ammo to be reliable?
A: Yes, very important. Reliable ammo feeds smoothly into your rifle and fires without misfires, which is crucial for a successful hunt.
Q: What are some factors that reduce the quality of .22 LR ammo?
A: Inconsistent bullet weight, poorly seated bullets, and manufacturing defects can all reduce ammo quality and affect accuracy.
Q: Are copper-jacketed bullets good for squirrel hunting?
A: Lightly plated copper-jacketed lead bullets can work, but unjacketed or hollow-point lead bullets often perform better for squirrels because they expand more readily.
Q: What is a good range for squirrel hunting with a .22 LR?
A: Most squirrel hunting with a .22 LR happens at distances under 50 yards.
Q: Where can I buy .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting?
A: You can buy .22 LR ammo at sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers.
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!