The Best .22 Rifles for Pest Control and Small Game
If you’ve got pests on the property or plan on bringing home some squirrels or rabbits, a .22 rifle is hard to beat. They’re light, cheap to shoot, and easy to carry around all day. But not all .22s are created equal—some are more accurate, some are built tougher, and some just plain run better in the field. Here are ten rifles that’ll actually help you get the job done.
Ruger 10/22
It’s almost a rite of passage to own one of these. The 10/22 is reliable, easy to upgrade, and cycles just about anything you feed it.
It’s great for small game and backyard pests because you can take quick follow-up shots with that semi-auto action. Plus, magazines are easy to find and swap out fast.
CZ 457
This one’s for folks who care about precision. The CZ 457 is a bolt-action that feels solid and shoots even better.
Out of the box, it’s accurate enough for headshots on squirrels at 50 yards or more, assuming you do your part. If you want a serious rimfire without spending custom-rifle money, this one hits the mark.
Savage Mark II
Savage made the Mark II for shooters who want bolt-action simplicity without breaking the bank. It’s lightweight and dependable.
Some models come with an AccuTrigger, which actually helps tighten up your groups. It’s a solid choice if you want a quieter, slower-paced day in the woods.
Marlin Model 60
The Marlin 60 has been around forever, and for good reason—it works. The tube-fed action holds plenty of rounds, and the accuracy is surprisingly good.
It’s one of those rifles that just keeps going, even after years of use. If you’re looking for an affordable workhorse, this one fits the bill.
Henry Lever Action .22
This one adds some classic cowboy feel to your pest control routine. The Henry lever-action runs smoothly and holds a lot of ammo in the tube.
It’s a great option for plinking or knocking down critters around the farm. You’ll probably catch yourself cycling the action just for fun.
Browning BL-22
The BL-22 is compact, fast, and well-made. It’s got a short lever throw, which makes it quicker than most lever guns.
This one isn’t the cheapest on the list, but it’s slick, especially if you like something a little more refined while still being plenty capable in the field.
Keystone Crickett
It might be marketed to kids, but don’t count it out. The Crickett is super light, dead simple, and easy to stash just about anywhere.
It’s a good tool for trapping, dispatching pests, or teaching someone how to shoot. And honestly, you’ll be surprised how well it can shoot for such a small rifle.
Remington 597
The 597 doesn’t get as much attention as the 10/22, but it’s still a handy semi-auto option. The action is smooth, and it’s got a decent trigger for the price.
Just make sure you get good magazines—early versions had feeding issues. Once that’s sorted, it’s a solid performer for the backyard or the brush.
Tikka T1x
If you want something that feels like your deer rifle but runs .22 LR, the T1x is worth a look. The build quality is excellent, and it shoots straight.
It’s a little pricier, but you get a reliable bolt gun that can handle real accuracy work and rugged use. Think of it as a trainer that’s not just for training.
Mossberg 802 Plinkster
The 802 Plinkster is basic but gets the job done. It’s bolt-action, lightweight, and pretty accurate for its price point.
It’s a great option if you’re on a budget or just want a knock-around gun you won’t worry about scratching up. Handy for varmints, and easy to carry all day.
