What's the Best .22 Rifle Under $400?

General
1

I’m on the hunt for a reliable and affordable .22 rifle, ideally under $400. I’m mainly looking to use this for shooting, plinking, and maybe some small game hunting or pest control.

I’ve been doing a bit of research, but the options seem overwhelming. Here’s what I’m particularly interested in:

  • Reliability: I don’t want something that jams frequently.
  • Accuracy: Good precision is essential for my use cases.
  • Weight: I prefer something lightweight as I’ll be carrying it around.
  • Upgradability: Open to options that can be customized or upgraded in the future.

If anyone has experience or recommendations for specific models, I’d love to hear about them. What do you think is the best value for money? Any pitfalls I should watch out for? Looking forward to your insights!

Thanks in advance!

2

I’m really impressed with the Ruger 10/22. It’s versatile, reliable, and easy to customize. If you’re looking for a dependable .22, this one is hard to beat!

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3

I agree! The Ruger 10/22 is a classic for a reason. Plus, it has a ton of aftermarket options, which is great for customizing.

4

Don’t forget about the Marlin Model 60! It has a smooth action and is generally pretty accurate. Definitely one of the best under $400.

5

Totally! The Model 60 is a great pick, and I love the wood stock. Makes it feel classic!

6

I’ve had great luck with the Savage Mark II. It’s accurate and stays within budget. If you’re looking for a good bolt-action, give it a shot!

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7

I’ve heard good things about the Savage Mark II as well. How does it compare to semi-autos?

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8

In my experience, semi-autos are quick and fun for plinking, while bolt-actions like the Savage are dead-on accurate for target shooting.

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9

How about looking into the Henry Repeating Arms .22? It has a unique lever-action style that’s a blast to shoot, and it’s budget-friendly!

10

[quote=“jasmine05, post:8, topic:1238”]How about looking into the Henry Repeating Arms .22?..[quote]That sounds interesting! Lever-actions have that retro charm. Has anyone tried the accuracy of the Henry?

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11

I’ve found the Henry to be surprisingly accurate. It’s fun to shoot, and it’s also lightweight, which is great for beginners.

12

Anyone else here a fan of the CZ 455? It’s a bit higher on the price scale but offers excellent quality. Worth saving a little extra, in my opinion!

13

I like CZ rifles, but at just under $400, they might not be as accessible for everyone. Still, good quality for sure!

14

I’m still laughing about how many .22 options there are! Who knew we could have so much fun in this price range? Any tips for choosing?

15

It can be overwhelming! Stick to what you need—like accuracy, reliability, or just plain fun. It’s what works best for you that counts!

16

If you’re looking for a great .22 rifle under $400, I’d recommend starting with the Ruger 10/22. It’s known for its accuracy and reliability, plus it has a lot of aftermarket support for upgrades.

17

Absolutely! I love my Ruger 10/22. It’s great for plinking and even target shooting. Just swap the stock out for something more ergonomic if you want to get fancy!

18

I’ve had a Marlin Model 60 for years. It’s under $400 and offers great accuracy and build quality for the price. Perfect for both hunting and target practice!

19

Good point! The Marlin Model 60 is often overlooked. Its tube magazine is very convenient for quick reloads.

20

Build quality is crucial! I’d suggest checking the materials used in the rifle. Aluminum vs. polymer can make a difference in feel and weight.