When it comes to the Ruger 10/22, an iconic and versatile rimfire rifle, choosing the right ammunition can make all the difference in your shooting experience.
The Ruger 10/22 is beloved by many for its reliability and accuracy, but to truly unlock its potential, you need the right ammo.
In this article, we’ll delve into what makes some 10/22 ammo better than others, explore the different kinds of ammo available, and recommend the best Ruger 10/22 ammo.
What Makes Some 10/22 Ammo Better Than Others?
The effectiveness of Ruger 10/22 ammunition depends on several factors, including velocity, bullet weight, and type. Let’s break it down:
Velocity: Higher velocity rounds tend to offer flatter trajectories and greater accuracy over longer distances. They also provide more consistent cycling in semi-automatic firearms like the Ruger 10/22.
Bullet Weight: The weight of the bullet can affect both accuracy and stopping power. Lighter bullets may be faster, but heavier ones may offer more stability in windy conditions.
Bullet Type: Different bullet types are suited to different tasks. For plinking and target shooting, round-nose bullets are great. For small game hunting, hollow points or soft points are more effective.
Consistency: Ammunition that is manufactured with high-quality control standards tends to be more reliable and consistent, leading to better accuracy.
Kinds of Ammo For Ruger 10/22
When it comes to finding the best Ruger 10/22 ammo, you have a variety of options to choose from. Each type of ammo has distinct characteristics that cater to different shooting needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the primary kinds of ammo available for the 10/22:
Subsonic Rounds
Subsonic rounds are designed to travel at speeds below the speed of sound (approximately 1,125 feet per second at sea level and room temperature). These rounds are typically characterized by the following features:
Reduced Noise: Subsonic ammo is quieter than other types of .22LR ammunition because it doesn’t produce the supersonic crack associated with faster rounds. This makes it ideal for shooters who want to minimize noise, making it suitable for backyard plinking or shooting in areas with noise restrictions.
Limited Range: Subsonic rounds have a shorter effective range compared to higher-velocity ammo. They tend to drop more quickly and experience greater wind drift over longer distances.
Less Recoil: Due to their lower velocity, subsonic ammo generate less recoil, making them comfortable to shoot, especially for beginners and those who are recoil-sensitive.
Target Shooting and Small Game: Subsonic rounds are great for target shooting and small game hunting at closer ranges. Their reduced noise and mild recoil make them suitable for precision shooting.
Standard Velocity
Standard velocity ammunition falls in the middle ground between subsonic and high-velocity rounds in terms of speed. It is characterized by the following:
Balanced Performance: Standard velocity rounds strike a balance between noise, range, and velocity. They offer moderate noise levels, acceptable range, and good accuracy.
Versatility: These rounds are versatile and can be used for a wide range of shooting activities, including plinking, precision shooting, and smaller game hunting.
Reliable Cycling: Standard velocity rounds tend to cycle reliably in semi-automatic firearms like the 10/22, making them a popular choice for those who own this type of rifle.
Effective for Small Game: Standard velocity ammunition is a favorite among smaller game hunters due to its combination of accuracy and energy suitable for hunting varmints like squirrels and rabbits.
High Velocity
High velocity ammo is characterized by its increased speed compared to standard velocity ammo. Here are their key features:
Greater Speed: A High velocity round travel at speeds significantly above the speed of sound, often reaching around 1,200 to 1,400 feet per second. This results in flatter trajectories and fewer bullet drop at longer distances.
Extended Range: High velocity ammo is suitable for longer-range shooting and varmint hunting. It offers improved accuracy and energy retention over extended distances.
Hunting and Target Shooting: Shooters often use the high velocity round for both target shooting and hunting, particularly when targeting small game that may be encountered at various distances.
Supersonic Crack: It’s important to note that higher velocity rounds produce a distinct supersonic crack when they break the sound barrier, which can be louder and may disturb the peace in quieter shooting environments.
Hyper Velocity
Hyper velocity ammunition takes speed to the next level, offering even higher velocities than standard velocity rounds. Here’s what sets them apart from standard velocity rounds:
Extreme Speed: Hyper velocity rounds can reach speeds of 1,600 feet per second or more. This extraordinary velocity results in exceptionally flat trajectories and minimal bullet drop.
Maximum Energy Transfer: These rounds are often chosen for varmint control and pest eradication, as the high speed ensures maximum energy transfer upon impact, effectively dispatching the target.
Extended Range: High velocity ammo is capable of reaching targets at considerable distances with accuracy, making it suitable for long-range varmint hunting.
Loud Report: The extreme velocity of hyper velocity rounds produces a very loud report, which may not be suitable for quiet shooting environments.
Specialized Use: While hyper velocity ammo is excellent for varmint hunting and pest control, it may not be the best choice for other shooting activities due to its cost and noise level.
The Best Ruger 10/22 Ammunition
Several top-quality 10/22 ammunition options are available. Here are some of the best ruger 10/22 ammo we’ve compiled:
1. CCI Mini Mag HP 22 Long Rifle 36GR CPHP
When it comes to reliable and consistent performance, the CCI Mini Mags ammunition is a top contender for 10/22 owners. Let’s take a closer look at this popular choice:
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
- Bullet Weight: 36 grains
- Bullet Type: Copper Plated Hollow Point (CPHP)
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 1,260 feet per second (fps)
- Packaging: Available in various quantities, including bulk packs
Key Features
Reliability: The CCI Mini Mags are renowned for its consistent ignition and cycling in semi-automatic firearms like the 10/22. This reliability is crucial for uninterrupted shooting sessions.
Clean-Burning Powder: The clean-burning powder used in these mini mags results in less fouling and reduced barrel maintenance, allowing you to spend more time shooting and less time cleaning your rifle.
Copper Plated Hollow Point: The CCI Mini mag hollow pointed design enhances terminal performance, making these rounds suitable for smaller game hunting. The copper plating ensures reliable feeding and prevents lead fouling from the mini mag.
Excellent Accuracy: With its well-balanced velocity and bullet weight, the CCI Mini Mag delivers excellent accuracy, making it a favorite among target shooters.
Pros
- Reliable cycling in semi-automatic firearms.
- Clean-burning powder reduces fouling.
- Copper-plated hollow pointed design for effective terminal performance.
- Great accuracy for target shooting.
- Available in various packaging options to suit your needs.
Cons
- Can be slightly more expensive compared to some budget options.
- May not be the ideal choice for those looking for hyper-velocity rounds.
Final Verdict
The CCI Mini Mag ammo is a versatile and dependable choice for Ruger 10/22 owners. The Mini mags’ reliability, clean-burning powder, and accuracy make it an excellent all-around option.
Whether you’re hitting the range for target practice or heading out for small game hunting, these rounds offer consistent performance that you can count on.
While they may not be the fastest rounds available, their balance of speed and accuracy makes them a trusted choice for many 10/22 enthusiasts.
Consider your specific shooting needs, but don’t hesitate to give the CCI Mini Mag ammo a try for a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience.
2. CCI Stinger Hypervelocity 22 (Long Rifle 32GR – Copper Plated)
For Ruger 10/22 owners looking for a powerful and high-velocity option, the CCI ammo (hypervelocity) is a standout choice. Let’s delve into the details of this high-performance ammunition:
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
- Bullet Weight: 32 grains
- Bullet Type: Copper Plating hyper velocity round
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 1,640 feet per second (fps)
- Packaging: Available in various quantities, including boxes and bulk packs
Key Features
Blistering Velocity: This CCI ammo lives up to its name with a staggering muzzle velocity of around 1,640 fps. This incredible speed results in flat trajectories and excellent downrange energy, making it ideal for smaller game hunting and varmint control.
Copper Plated Design: The copper-plated bullet enhances reliability and feeding in your Ruger 10/22 while minimizing lead fouling. This design ensures smooth cycling and consistent performance.
Hollow Point: This hyper velocity round features a hollow pointed design, which enhances its terminal performance, making it particularly effective for varmint hunting and pest control.
Dependable Ignition: CCI is known for its quality primers, ensuring dependable ignition and consistent accuracy shot after shot.
Pros
- Exceptional muzzle velocity for flat trajectories and high energy.
- Copper-plated bullets reduce lead fouling and improve feeding.
- Hollow pointed design enhances terminal performance.
- Great choice for varmint hunting and pest control.
- Dependable ignition for consistent accuracy.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to standard velocity rounds.
- Louder report due to the higher velocity may not be suitable for quiet shooting environments.
Final Verdict
The CCI Stinger Hypervelocity 22 ammunition is a powerhouse option for 10/22 owners who demand speed and performance. Its blistering velocity, copper-plated design, and hollow point bullets make it an excellent choice for varmint hunting and pest control.
While it comes at a slightly higher cost compared to standard velocity rounds, the trade-off in terms of performance and energy is well worth it for those seeking reliable and hard-hitting ammunition.
This ammunition may not be the best choice for quiet shooting environments due to its louder report, but it excels in situations where high energy and accuracy are paramount.
If you’re looking for a dependable and high-velocity option for your 10/22, the CCI Stinger is a top contender that won’t disappoint when it’s time to take that crucial shot.
3. Varmint Express 22 Magnum (WMR) 30GR V-Max
For Ruger 10/22 owners who require magnum power and precision in their ammunition, the Varmint Express 22 Magnum (WMR) 30GR V-Max offers a compelling choice. Let’s explore the details of this high-powered option:
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR)
- Bullet Weight: 30 grains
- Bullet Type: V-Max Polymer-Tip
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 2,200 feet per second (fps)
- Packaging: Available in boxes
Key Features
Magnum Power: The Varmint Express 22 Magnum packs a significant punch with its high muzzle velocity of approximately 2,200 fps. This added power makes it exceptionally well-suited for varmint hunting and pest control, even at longer distances.
V-Max Polymer-Tip Bullets: The V-Max bullets feature a polymer tip that improves ballistic performance and expansion upon impact. This design maximizes the energy transfer to the target and enhances terminal ballistics.
Accurate and Flat Shooting: Thanks to its higher velocity and well-designed bullets, this ammunition offers flat trajectories and remarkable accuracy, making it a top choice for precision shooting.
Dependable Functionality: The Varmint Express is known for its reliability, ensuring your Ruger 10/22 cycles these rounds smoothly and consistently.
Pros
- Magnum power for effective varmint hunting and pest control.
- V-Max polymer-tip bullets for improved expansion and energy transfer.
- Excellent accuracy and flat trajectories.
- Reliable cycling in Ruger 10/22 rifles.
- Effective at longer distances.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to standard .22LR ammunition.
- Louder report compared to standard velocity ammo due to its higher velocity.
Final Verdict
The Varmint Express 22 Magnum (WMR) 30GR V-Max ammunition is a high-powered and accurate choice for 10/22 owners who need to tackle varmints and pests effectively. Its impressive muzzle velocity, combined with V-Max polymer-tip bullets, ensures both precision and substantial terminal performance.
While it comes at a higher cost compared to standard .22LR ammunition, the Varmint Express is a specialized option that excels in varmint hunting scenarios and precision shooting.
Its dependable functionality ensures your 10/22 cycles these rounds smoothly, allowing you to take precise shots even at longer distances.
If varmint control and accuracy are your top priorities, the Varmint Express 22 Magnum is a solid investment that won’t disappoint in the field.
4. Winchester – Whitebox Ammo 22 (Hollow Point)
For those who seek an affordable yet dependable ammunition option for their Ruger 10/22, the Winchester – Whitebox Ammo 22 (Hollow Pointed) is worth considering. Let’s delve into the details of this budget-friendly choice:
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
- Bullet Weight: Varies by specific load (commonly 36 grains)
- Bullet Type: Hollow Pointed
- Muzzle Velocity: Typical velocities for .22LR ammunition
- Packaging: Available in various quantities, including bulk packs
Key Features
Affordability: One of the standout features of Winchester Whitebox ammo is its cost-effectiveness. It provides solid performance without breaking the bank, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters.
Hollow Point Design: The hollow pointed bullets are designed for enhanced stopping power and expansion upon impact, making them suitable for small game hunting and pest control.
Dependable Functionality: Winchester has a long history of producing reliable ammunition, ensuring that these rounds will cycle smoothly and consistently in your Ruger 10/22.
Variety of Packaging: Winchester offers this ammo in various packaging options, allowing you to choose the quantity that best suits your needs.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option for cost-conscious shooters.
- Hollow pointed design enhances terminal performance.
- Reliable cycling in Ruger 10/22 rifles.
- Variety of packaging options available.
Cons
- May not offer the same level of precision and performance as premium ammo.
- Velocity and bullet weight can vary depending on the specific load.
Final Verdict
The Winchester Whitebox Ammo 22 (Hollow Point) is a solid choice for Ruger 10/22 owners looking for an affordable ammunition option that still delivers reliable performance.
While it may not match the precision and performance of premium ammunition, it offers good value for your money.
The hollow pointed design enhances its suitability for smaller game hunting and pest control, making it versatile for a range of shooting applications.
Whether you’re plinking or need dependable rounds for occasional hunting, Winchester Whitebox ammo provides consistent cycling and dependable functionality in your Ruger 10/22.
Ultimately, this ammunition is a practical choice for shooters on a budget who want reliable and effective rounds without breaking the bank.
5. 22 LR – 40 Grain LRN – Federal AutoMatch Target
If you’re in search of dependable and consistent ammunition for precision shooting with your Ruger 10/22, the 22 LR – 40 Grain LRN – Federal AutoMatch Target deserves your attention. Let’s dive into the specifics of this target-oriented ammunition:
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
- Bullet Weight: 40 grains
- Bullet Type: Lead Round Nose (LRN)
- Muzzle Velocity: Typical velocities for .22LR ammunition
- Packaging: Available in various quantities, often in bulk packs
Key Features
Consistency: The Federal AutoMatch Target ammo is known for its exceptional consistency in both velocity and accuracy. Shooters can expect tight groupings and predictable performance shot after shot.
Lead Round Nose Design: The LRN bullet design is ideal for target shooting, as it punches clean holes in paper targets without fragmentation, providing precise scoring.
Reliable Cycling: These rounds are engineered to cycle smoothly in semi-automatic firearms like the Ruger 10/22, minimizing the risk of jams or misfeeds.
Economical Bulk Packaging: Federal often offers this ammunition in bulk packs, making it cost-effective for extended target practice sessions.
Pros
- Exceptional consistency in velocity and accuracy.
- Lead Round Nose bullets for clean target holes.
- Reliable cycling in semi-automatic rifles like the Ruger 10/22.
- Economical bulk packaging for extended practice sessions.
Cons
- Not designed for hunting or self-defense due to the LRN bullet type.
- May not offer the same terminal performance as hollow pointed or other hunting-oriented rounds.
Final Verdict
The 22 LR – 40 Grain LRN – Federal AutoMatch Target ammunition is tailor-made for the precision-focused shooter looking to hone their skills with a Ruger 10/22.
Its standout feature is its remarkable consistency in both velocity and accuracy, ensuring that your shots land where you intend them to.
While it may not be suitable for hunting or self-defense due to the LRN bullet type, this ammunition is perfect for extended target practice sessions.
The clean holes it creates in paper targets simplify scoring, making it an excellent choice for competitive shooters or those who simply enjoy hitting the bullseye.
Moreover, Federal often provides these rounds in cost-effective bulk packaging, further enhancing their value. If your primary goal is sharpening your shooting skills and achieving tight groupings, the Federal AutoMatch Target ammunition is a dependable and economical option that won’t disappoint.
Conclusion
Selecting the right ammunition for your Ruger 10/22 is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your shooting experience, whether you’re a plinker, target shooter, or small game hunter. Here’s a summary of the key takeaways from our exploration of the best Ruger 10/22 ammunition:
Consider Your Needs: The ideal ammunition for your Ruger 10/22 depends on your specific requirements. Factors like velocity, bullet weight, and bullet type should guide your choice.
Versatile Options: There’s a wide range of ammunition available, from subsonic ammo for quiet plinking to hyper-velocity loads for varmint hunting. Each type has its strengths, so choose according to your intended use.
Top Picks: Several standout options exist for Ruger 10/22 owners. The CCI Mini Mag HP, CCI Stinger Hypervelocity, Varmint Express 22 Magnum, Winchester Whitebox, and Federal AutoMatch Target all offer unique advantages.
Budget vs. Performance: While premium ammunition can offer exceptional performance, there are also cost-effective options like the Winchester Whitebox and Federal AutoMatch Target that provide reliable functionality for shooters on a budget.
In conclusion, the best Ruger 10/22 ammunition for you depends on your specific shooting goals and preferences. Whether you prioritize power, precision, affordability, or versatility, there’s an ammunition type that fits the bill. Make an informed choice by considering your needs and the characteristics of each ammo type.
FAQ
Can I mix different types of .22LR ammo in my Ruger 10/22?
It’s generally advisable to stick to one type of ammunition in your Ruger 10/22 during a shooting session. Mixing different types of ammo with varying velocities and bullet weights can lead to inconsistent accuracy and cycling.
How can I determine the best ammo for my Ruger 10/22’s barrel twist rate?
The twist rate of your Ruger 10/22’s barrel is typically optimized for standard velocity ammo. However, most .22LR ammo, including higher velocity and subsonic ammo, should perform well. If you’re unsure, consult your rifle’s manual or test a variety of ammo to see what works best for your specific firearm.
What’s the effective range of a Ruger 10/22 with different types of ammo?
The effective range of a Ruger 10/22 largely depends on the specific type of ammunition used. Standard velocity and higher velocity rounds can be effective at distances up to 100 yards or more for precision shooting and smaller game hunting.
Hyper-velocity rounds can extend the effective range, but accuracy may suffer at longer distances. Subsonic ammo are better suited for short-range shooting due to their reduced velocity.