Finding the right ammunition is crucial for a successful squirrel hunting trip. While many .22 LR rounds are available, some perform better than others when it comes to taking down these nimble creatures. This guide dives deep into the best .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting, considering factors like accuracy, stopping power, and cost-effectiveness. We'll cover various types of ammo and help you choose the ideal option based on your specific needs and hunting style.
Understanding Squirrel Hunting and Ammo Selection
Squirrel hunting presents unique challenges. Squirrels are small, quick, and often found in dense cover. This means you need ammunition that delivers high accuracy at relatively short ranges, along with sufficient stopping power to ensure a clean kill. Overpenetration is also a major concern, especially when hunting in wooded areas where you risk harming other animals or property.
Factors to Consider When Choosing .22 LR Ammo
- Accuracy: Consistent accuracy is paramount. Look for ammo known for its tight grouping at typical hunting ranges (25-50 yards).
- Stopping Power: While .22 LR isn't the most powerful cartridge, you need rounds that deliver enough energy to quickly incapacitate a squirrel. Hollow points and other expanding rounds generally offer better stopping power than solid rounds.
- Velocity: Higher velocity generally translates to flatter trajectory and better accuracy at longer ranges. However, excessive velocity can lead to increased overpenetration.
- Cost: .22 LR is relatively inexpensive, but costs can add up quickly, especially when you're shooting a lot of rounds for practice or during a hunting trip. Find a balance between performance and cost.
- Type of Round: This includes hollow points (HP), copper plated, solid points, and subsonic rounds. Each type performs differently.
Top .22 LR Ammo Choices for Squirrel Hunting
Here's a breakdown of some of the top-performing .22 LR rounds for squirrel hunting:
1. CCI Mini-Mag Hollow Point
- Pros: Excellent accuracy, reliable performance, good stopping power. Widely available.
- Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
- Why it's good for squirrels: The hollow point design expands upon impact, increasing its energy transfer and stopping power. This makes for cleaner kills and reduces the chance of the squirrel running off wounded.
2. Remington Golden Bullet Hollow Point
- Pros: Affordable, readily available, decent accuracy.
- Cons: Accuracy can be less consistent than premium brands. Stopping power might be slightly lower than CCI Mini-Mags.
- Why it's good for squirrels: A budget-friendly choice that still provides acceptable performance. Great for practice and casual hunting.
3. Federal AutoMatch
- Pros: Designed for semi-automatic rifles, reliable cycling, good accuracy.
- Cons: Primarily a solid-point round, leading to potentially less stopping power than HP rounds.
- Why it's good for squirrels: It's a very consistent round, making it excellent for those who prefer a solid point and require very accurate shots.
4. Winchester Super X HP
- Pros: Reliable performance, good stopping power, decent accuracy. Often a good value.
- Cons: Performance can sometimes vary slightly between batches.
- Why it's good for squirrels: A solid all-around choice providing a good balance of accuracy, stopping power, and price.
Ammo Type Comparison Table
| Ammo Type | Stopping Power | Accuracy | Cost | Overpenetration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCI Mini-Mag HP | High | High | Medium-High | Low |
| Remington Golden Bullet HP | Medium | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Federal AutoMatch | Medium-Low | High | Low | Medium-High |
| Winchester Super X HP | Medium-High | Medium-High | Medium | Medium |
(Note: Stopping power, accuracy, and overpenetration are subjective and can vary based on factors like rifle and barrel characteristics.)
Choosing the Right Ammo for Your Hunting Style
Your hunting style will influence your ammo choice. If you primarily hunt from tree stands at closer ranges, a less expensive option might suffice. However, if you're hunting squirrels in more open areas at longer ranges, premium ammo with high accuracy and stopping power becomes more critical.
Always practice with your chosen ammo before hunting to verify its performance in your specific rifle.
Ethical Considerations and Safe Hunting Practices
Always prioritize ethical and safe hunting practices. Use the appropriate ammo for the task and ensure a quick, clean kill. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and follow all relevant hunting regulations.
Conclusion: Finding the Best .22 LR for Your Squirrel Hunting Needs
Selecting the best .22 LR ammo for squirrel hunting depends on several factors, including your budget, hunting style, and desired performance. By considering the options discussed above and understanding the characteristics of different ammo types, you can make an informed decision that enhances your hunting success while maintaining ethical hunting practices. Remember to prioritize safety and responsible firearm handling at all times.