The best calibers for small game hunting

Small-game hunting is a popular outdoor activity enjoyed by many hunters. The right caliber can make all the difference when it comes to hunting success. The best calibers for small game hunting are those that are effective at short ranges, have manageable recoil, and offer enough power to cleanly and ethically take down the animal. Here are some of the best calibers for small game hunting:

.22 LR

The .22 Long Rifle (LR) is a popular choice for small-game hunting. It’s a small caliber with low recoil, making it easy to shoot accurately. The .22 LR is also a relatively quiet round, making it a good choice for hunters who want to avoid spooking their prey. This caliber is ideal for hunting small-game such as squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals.

.17 HMR

The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) is another excellent choice for small game hunting. It has a higher velocity and flatter trajectory than the .22 LR, making it more accurate at longer ranges. The .17 HMR has less recoil than larger calibers, making it easier to shoot accurately. This caliber is ideal for hunting small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs.

.22 WMR

The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) is a step up from the .22 LR in terms of power and range. It has a flatter trajectory and more energy at longer distances than the .22 LR, making it a good choice for hunting small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and even larger animals like raccoons and foxes.

.410 Shotgun

The .410 shotgun is an excellent choice for small game hunting, particularly for birds and small mammals. The .410 shotgun fires a smaller shot size than larger gauges, which reduces the risk of over-penetration and damage to the meat. It also has less recoil than larger gauges, making it easier to handle for smaller-framed hunters or younger hunters.

.20 Gauge Shotgun

The .20 gauge shotgun is a great all-purpose shotgun for small game hunting. It’s slightly larger than the .410, but still offers less recoil than larger gauges. The .20 gauge shotgun is an ideal choice for hunting small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and birds.

Choosing the right caliber for small game hunting is essential for success in the field. The best calibers for small game hunting are those that are effective at short ranges, have manageable recoil, and offer enough power to cleanly and ethically take down the animal. The .22 LR, .17 HMR, .22 WMR, .410 shotgun, and .20 gauge shotgun are all excellent choices for small game hunting. Hunters should consider their own skill level, hunting conditions, and target species when selecting a caliber for small-game hunting.