Rimfires I Like

303british.com

Rimfires I Like

I've owned a pile of different rimfires over the years, but have settled on a few rifles that are here to stay. And you know what? Rimfires are a lot like 303s, you can never have enough.

Are you a traditionalist? Maybe the only rimfire you own is a 22 and you wouldn't have it any other way. If you're a new waver, the 17 HMR or a 17 Mach 2 may be more your style. Of course, some of us love the 22 Magnum. No need to argue. There are enough different cartridges and rifles to satisfy everyone.

I don't really care what style I fire off the bench, as long as it's a bolt. I'm not a hardcore benchrester, but do enjoy tiny groups. I bought a CZ 452 for my semi-serious shooting.

For most hunting chores, like rabbits, birds or squirrels, only a pump will do. For larger critters, or to stretch the range out, a 22 WMR does the job. I'll even admit that I have a 17 HMR kicking around the gun locker.

I prefer tubular magazines for hunting. We all have our preferences, right? If you'd like to comment, send me an email by clicking the link at the bottom of the page.

Here are some of my favourites.

CZ 452

CZ 452 with high Burris rings

The high rings clear the barrel - the scope is a 6-24x40mm

The CZ 452 feels like a centrefire rifle. After Christmas, I will be sighting in the scope and testing accessories, including Paco's Accurizer - a device that changes the bullet's meplat and diameter.

Marlin 983T

I used a 2-7x32mm Elite 3200 scope and mounted it with a BKL one piece mount. The rumour is that BKL is out of business. If that's true, it's a shame. This is a very solid mount.

For my purposes, the Marlin 22 Mag is a bush rifle. I'll be using it for vermin like skunks and groundhogs, as well as foxes and coyotes. With it's black synthetic stock, it's not pretty, but functional.

Henry 22 Pump

It looks awkward, but the scope is not too big for the rifle.

Yes, I put a cheap 4 power Simmons scope on it. It will do.

New England Firearms 17 HMR Sportster

This was the very first group I ever fired from the NEF Sportster. It was a hair over 1 inch at 100 yards. The rifle was resting on a wooden block. Is it some magical thing? No. But a 1inch - 10 shot group is just fine for its intended purpose - hunting.

I mounted a 4-16x50mm scope on it. The glass was manufactured by some no name company and was sold on ebay. $40 delivered. It works. I will not grieve should the rifle scope ever break. The 17HMR won't give it much of a workout though. I haven't really found a niche for it yet, but for about $200 - which includes the cheap scope - I'll manage somehow.

steve@303british.com