Contrary to popular belief, the pursuit of pinpoint accuracy in the world of firearms doesn’t have to break the bank. Today, precision rimfire shooting stands at the apex of its golden age, offering an unparalleled combination of affordable rifles, high-quality optics, and readily available ammunition. This perfect storm makes it easier than ever for shooters of all skill levels to experience the thrill of precision shooting without sacrificing an arm and a leg.
The rise of affordable rimfire precision shooting comes with several significant advantages. First, it is a gateway into precision shooting, allowing new shooters to develop their skills and hone their marksmanship without a hefty initial investment. Secondly, it fosters a vibrant competitive community with accessible entry points, offering opportunities for friendly competition and skill development. Finally, it opens doors to enjoyable recreational shooting at longer distances, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the challenge and satisfaction of hitting small targets with a rimfire caliber.
Rimfire Rifles
The cornerstone of any shooting experience is the firearm itself. Traditionally, precision rimfire rifles demanded premium prices. However, recent years have seen an influx of accurate yet budget-friendly options from reputable manufacturers like Ruger, Savage, Bergara, Tikka, and CZ. These rifles boast features like free-floated barrels, match-grade triggers, and adjustable stocks, once exclusive to high-end models. This provides access to the building blocks of accuracy, allowing budget-conscious shooters to compete and enjoy the challenge of sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups.
Rimfire Optics
Gone are the days of grainy, unreliable scopes hindering the potential of rimfire rifles. The optics market, too, has experienced a boom in affordable, high-powered scopes catering specifically to the needs of rimfire enthusiasts. Manufacturers like Vortex, Bushnell, Arken Optics, and Athlon Optics now offer scopes with clear glass, generous magnification ranges, target turrets, Christmas tree reticles, and parallax adjustment capabilities down to 10 yards, allowing shooters to see the finer details of their targets at short and long-range, dial for extended ranges, and make quick holdover & wind adjustments. These advancements, once limited to top-tier optics, have brought long-range rimfire shooting and competition within reach of a broader audience.
Ammunition
Another factor has contributed to the rise of precision rimfire shooting. The lower cost of ammunition compared to centerfire calibers makes it significantly more economical to practice and compete. Secondly, rimfire rifles are inherently lighter and more compact than their centerfire counterparts, making them easier to transport and handle, especially for young shooters or those with physical limitations.
Other Gear
Supporting gear also plays a crucial role in achieving consistency and comfort. Thankfully, the market offers a plethora of affordable options for rimfire shooters. Bipods, for example, have become readily available at reasonable prices, providing a stable platform for taking accurate shots. Likewise, shooting bags, mats, and tripods offer additional stability, minimizing fatigue and improving shot stability and accuracy. These advancements once considered luxuries, are now accessible to most shooters, allowing them to maximize their potential and focus solely on their form and trigger control.
Competition
The final puzzle piece of the “Golden Age” is the rapid growth of organized competitions like NRL22 (National Rifle League 22) and PRS rimfire (Precision Rifle Series rimfire). These organizations offer structured match series across the country, providing a platform for shooters to test their skills, compete with others, and learn from more experienced competitors. NRL22 and PRS rimfire matches typically involve multiple stages with varying target sizes, distances, and shooting positions, mirroring the challenges encountered in real-world scenarios. This format not only simulates practical applications but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among participants. The affordability of rimfire rifles and ammunition compared to centerfire counterparts further contributes to the increased participation in these competitions, making them accessible to a wider range of shooters and further fueling the popularity of precision rimfire shooting.
Wrap Up
Today’s landscape of affordable rifles, high-quality optics, and readily available gear has undeniably catapulted rimfire shooting and competition into its golden age. This shift opens doors to a world of precision shooting and long-range accuracy, making it a compelling and accessible option for shooters of all budgets and skill levels. So, whether you’re a seasoned marksman seeking a challenge or a beginner curious about the world of precision shooting, the time has never been better to embrace the golden age of affordable rimfire and experience the thrill of hitting the bullseye on a budget.
