Finding the right ammunition is crucial for a successful squirrel hunting trip. While the .22 LR is a popular and effective choice, selecting the best .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting requires understanding the nuances of different cartridge types and their impact on accuracy, lethality, and overall hunting experience. This comprehensive guide explores the top contenders, helping you make an informed decision for your next outing.
Understanding .22 LR Ammunition
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge boasts a wide variety of options, each designed for different purposes. For squirrel hunting, you need rounds that offer a balance of accuracy, stopping power, and minimal ricochet risk. Key factors to consider include:
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Bullet Weight: Lighter bullets (36-40 grain) tend to be faster and flatter shooting, but may lack the stopping power of heavier bullets. Heavier bullets (40-50 grain) offer better energy transfer, leading to more humane kills, but might have slightly less accuracy at longer ranges.
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Bullet Type: Several bullet types exist, each affecting performance:
- Hollow Points (HP): Designed to expand upon impact, increasing stopping power and reducing penetration. This is generally preferred for squirrel hunting due to the risk of over-penetration with full metal jackets.
- Solid Points (SP): These full metal jacket bullets are harder and maintain their shape upon impact, offering decent penetration and less expansion. Not ideal for squirrels as they can cause excessive damage.
- Round Nose (RN): A basic bullet shape, often more affordable but less effective for hunting due to lower expansion rates.
- High Velocity (HV): These rounds have higher muzzle velocities resulting in a flatter trajectory and more consistent accuracy at longer ranges. However, this higher velocity can also be more prone to ricochet.
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Velocity: Higher velocity generally translates to flatter trajectories and greater accuracy at longer ranges. However, higher velocity also increases the risk of ricochets and potential damage to the surrounding area.
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Accuracy: Even high quality ammo will vary between brands. Test various brands to find what your gun shoots accurately.
Top .22 LR Ammo Choices for Squirrel Hunting
Based on the above criteria, here are some top performing .22 LR rounds for squirrel hunting:
High-Velocity Hollow Point Options:
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CCI Velocitor: Known for its accuracy and consistent performance, the CCI Velocitor offers a high-velocity hollow point that delivers excellent stopping power. Many hunters consider it among the top choices for small game.
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Federal AutoMatch: Another high-velocity option, the Federal AutoMatch is reliable and accurate, making it a suitable choice for semi-automatic rifles where consistent feeding is crucial.
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Remington Golden Bullet HP: A reliable and more budget-friendly high-velocity option, though accuracy may not be as consistently excellent as CCI or Federal.
Standard Velocity Hollow Point Options (for quieter shooting):
- CCI Quiet-22: Designed for quieter shooting, the CCI Quiet-22 utilizes a subsonic round with reduced velocity. The lower velocity also reduces ricochet risk, making it a good option for hunting in close quarters or densely populated areas. However, accuracy is decreased at longer ranges compared to high velocity rounds.
Table: Comparison of Top .22 LR Ammo for Squirrel Hunting
| Ammunition | Bullet Type | Velocity (fps) | Weight (gr) | Expansion | Cost (per 50 rounds) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCI Velocitor | HP | 1235 | 40 | Excellent | $$ | High velocity, excellent accuracy |
| Federal AutoMatch | HP | 1240 | 40 | Good | $ | High velocity, reliable, good for semi-autos |
| Remington Golden Bullet HP | HP | 1235 | 40 | Good | $ | High velocity, more affordable, average accuracy |
| CCI Quiet-22 | HP | 710 | 40 | Good | $ | Subsonic, quieter, reduced recoil, less range |
Note: Prices and availability are subject to change. "Cost" is a relative measure; actual pricing will vary by retailer.
Factors Beyond Ammunition Choice
While choosing the right ammo is critical, other factors influence a successful hunt:
- Rifle Choice: A rifle with a good sighting system is essential. Consider a scope or good iron sights for better accuracy at longer ranges.
- Shot Placement: Precise shot placement is key for a clean kill. Aim for the head or heart/lung area.
- Practice: Consistent practice is crucial to develop your skills and achieve accuracy with your chosen ammunition and rifle combination.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Be aware of your surroundings and follow all safety regulations.
Conclusion
Selecting the best .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize high velocity, quiet operation, or budget considerations, this guide provides a starting point for making an informed decision. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and prioritize ethical hunting practices. The right ammunition combined with skill and responsible hunting techniques leads to successful and ethical squirrel hunting.