{"id":270785,"date":"2025-10-02T17:15:16","date_gmt":"2025-10-02T22:15:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/firearmsdirectclub.com\/home\/?post_type=article&p=270785"},"modified":"2025-10-02T18:02:17","modified_gmt":"2025-10-02T23:02:17","slug":"best-22-ammo-for-squirrel-hunting-other-small-game","status":"publish","type":"article","link":"https:\/\/firearmsdirectclub.com\/knowledge-base\/best-22-ammo-for-squirrel-hunting-other-small-game\/","title":{"rendered":"Best .22 Ammo for Squirrel Hunting & Other Small Game"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The .22LR<\/a> has earned its reputation as the go-to round for small game hunting. Whether you\u2019re stalking squirrels in the woods or dispatching rabbits on the back 40, the .22 delivers lethal precision without overkill. But not every .22LR round is created equal. Choosing the right ammo can mean the difference between a clean harvest and a wounded runner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this guide, we break down the top-performing .22LR ammo for small game in 2025. We\u2019ll cover what makes each pick stand out, how to match ammo to your rifle and terrain, and where to find the best deals, especially if you’re a Firearms Direct Club member<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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457 Varmint 22LR Available Now<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why the .22LR Rules Small Game Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The .22 Long Rifle<\/a> has remained a staple in American hunting kits for over a century. It\u2019s light, cheap, easy to shoot, and it won\u2019t scare the woods into silence after a single shot. More importantly, it\u2019s precise, making it ideal for putting down squirrels, rabbits, and other small critters cleanly and ethically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re teaching a new hunter, running a bolt-action for quiet control, or cycling a semi-auto for speed, the .22LR offers a level of versatility that few cartridges can match. Subsonic loads keep it whisper quiet. High-velocity rounds deliver the knockdown you need. It\u2019s the ultimate tool for small game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Escort<\/a>
Escort 22LR Rifle .22 LR Available Now<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Best .22 Ammo for Squirrel Hunting in 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

CCI Mini-Mag 36gr CPHP<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For many small game hunters, CCI Mini-Mags<\/a> are the gold standard. The 36-grain copper-plated hollow point offers just the right blend of speed and expansion to anchor a squirrel without blowing apart the meat. It cycles flawlessly in semi-autos and delivers tight groupings out to 75 yards. If you want reliability and consistency, this is the round to beat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"CCI<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Federal Game-Shok 38gr LHP<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Federal\u2019s Game-Shok<\/a> line is made with hunters in mind. The 38-grain lead hollow point isn\u2019t quite as fast as the Mini-Mag, but it hits hard and expands well at closer ranges. It\u2019s an excellent choice for thick woods or tight quarters where you\u2019re taking 30-yard to 50-yard shots. It also tends to be more affordable, making it a great option if you\u2019re shooting in volume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Winchester Super-X 40gr Power-Point<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you’re after something a little heavier, Winchester\u2019s Super-X Power-Point<\/a> is a solid bet. The 40-grain bullet offers deeper penetration and more punch, making it ideal for larger small game like rabbits or groundhogs. The controlled expansion performs well through brush and keeps shots predictable at longer ranges. It’s a favorite among hunters who want versatility in a single load.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Winchester<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Aguila Super Extra 40gr Solid Point<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For budget-conscious hunters, Aguila\u2019s Super Extra<\/a> line punches above its weight. The 40-grain solid point doesn\u2019t offer expansion, but if you\u2019re confident in headshots, it performs admirably. It\u2019s also one of the best training rounds around – consistent, clean, and accurate enough for backyard practice or squirrel duty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"AGU<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How to Choose the Right .22 Ammo for Small Game<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s more to picking hunting ammo than brand loyalty. Start by thinking about your shot placement. Hollow points are ideal for center-mass hits, where you want expansion and energy transfer. Solid points, on the other hand, work best when you’re aiming for the head, where they penetrate cleanly with minimal damage to edible meat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Velocity matters too. Standard velocity rounds tend to be quieter and more stable, but some may not cycle well in semi-automatic rifles. High-velocity options add range and energy, perfect for longer shots or taking slightly bigger game. And if you\u2019re using a suppressor or hunting near noise-sensitive areas, subsonic ammo lets you shoot in near silence. Just make sure it groups well in your setup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your rifle\u2019s action also plays a role. Bolt-action rifles handle just about anything. Semi-autos, though, are more finicky and they typically run best with hotter loads like Mini-Mags or Power-Points. Always test a few types to see what shoots clean and tight in your specific firearm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What About Other Small Game?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While squirrel hunting is where the .22LR shines, the same ammo works across a variety of small game. Rabbits, for instance, often require a little more stopping power, a heavier hollow point like the Winchester Power-Point is a smart choice. For groundhogs, you\u2019ll want something with deep penetration and a flatter trajectory. Even for pest control, think rats, raccoons, or crows, a quiet subsonic load can handle the job without drawing attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The key is to know your quarry, pick the right shot, and match your ammo to the task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Where to Buy the Best .22LR Hunting Ammo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Finding quality .22 ammo can be hit or miss at local shops. And when it\u2019s on the shelves, you\u2019re often paying full retail or more. That\u2019s where Firearms Direct Club comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a member, you\u2019ll get access to wholesale pricing on name-brand .22LR ammo like CCI<\/a>, Federal<\/a>, Winchester<\/a>, and Aguila<\/a>. No gimmicks, no middlemen. Just reliable access to the gear you actually use, at prices you can\u2019t beat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Want to save on your next bulk order? Join the club today<\/a> and stock your ammo cabinet the smart way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FDC Recommends<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The .22LR may be a small cartridge, but it plays a big role in every hunter\u2019s toolkit. Choosing the right ammo, whether it\u2019s a high-velocity hollow point for rabbits or a budget-friendly solid for squirrels, means more ethical kills, cleaner meat, and fewer missed opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for a quick recommendation:
Go with CCI Mini-Mags for all-around excellence, Federal Game-Shok for value, Winchester Power-Point for punch, and Aguila Super Extra if you\u2019re stretching your dollar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Test them out, trust your rifle, and don\u2019t forget to stock up before the next season kicks off. Firearms Direct Club has your back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Join now<\/a> for exclusive member-only pricing on top-tier hunting ammo and gear.<\/p>\n\n\n

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