When it comes to excelling in precision .22LR matches like NRL22, PRS22, or benchrest competitions, your choice of ammunition plays a pivotal role. While factors like rifle setup, optics, and environmental conditions matter, the ammo is often the defining factor in accuracy and consistency. Let’s dive into what makes the best .22LR ammo for precision shooting and why high-velocity rounds may not be your best bet.

Precision shooters prioritize accuracy and consistency over velocity. While high-velocity .22LR ammo may offer higher speeds, it is more prone to destabilization when the bullet transitions from supersonic (>1,125 fps) to transonic speeds (below 1,125 fps). This phase causes turbulence and can affect the trajectory, leading to reduced accuracy at long distances.
Subsonic ammunition, which stays under the supersonic threshold, avoids this issue entirely. While slightly slower, subsonic rounds maintain a stable flight path, making them ideal for precision shooting at ranges of 100 yards or more.

​1. SK Ammo - SK ammunition is a favorite among precision shooters for its exceptional quality and affordability. Products like SK Rifle Match and SK Standard Plus are popular choices for NRL22 and PRS22 competitors. SK offers consistent velocity, tight groupings, and reliable ignition.

​2. Lapua - Lapua ammunition is synonymous with precision. Its Center-X and Midas+ lines are among the most sought-after for benchrest competitions due to their incredible uniformity in bullet weight and powder loads. Lapua's attention to detail ensures minimal shot-to-shot variation.

​3. RWS - RWS is another premium brand offering high-quality .22LR ammunition, including the R50 and R100 lines. These rounds are crafted with precision in mind, delivering excellent performance for competitive shooters seeking ultra-tight groupings.

​4. Eley - Eley ammunition has long been a benchmark in the .22LR world. With products like Eley Match and Eley Tenex, this brand has earned the trust of top competitors worldwide. Known for their meticulous manufacturing processes, Eley rounds are perfect for shooters demanding unparalleled accuracy.

​Choosing the right ammunition is essential for achieving peak performance in precision .22LR competitions. Brands like SK, Lapua, RWS, and Eley offer reliable and consistent options that cater to the demanding needs of competitive shooters. By sticking to subsonic rounds and experimenting with different loads, you can unlock your rifle’s full potential and take your precision shooting game to the next level.
Whether you're gearing up for your next NRL22 match or fine-tuning your benchrest setup, Brink Excursions is here to support your journey with high-quality gear and expert advice.

​When it comes to choosing the right scope for your rifle, the word “Rimfire” often stirs up confusion among hunters and shooters alike. Are these scopes lower in quality? Are they only for .22 caliber rifles? Today, we’re diving into the real truth about Rimfire rifle scopes—what they are, how they differ from standard scopes, and why they might be the perfect fit for your Midwest hunting adventures.

​Let’s bust this myth right away: Rimfire rifle scopes from reputable manufacturers are made with the same high-quality materials and craftsmanship as their “standard” counterparts. Brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Athlon design their Rimfire scopes with durability and precision in mind. The distinction lies not in quality, but in purpose-built features that cater specifically to Rimfire shooting applications.

​The term “Rimfire” in a scope’s name signals some key differences tailored to the unique needs of Rimfire rifles:

1. Parallax Setting
   • Most standard rifle scopes have a fixed parallax set at 100 yards, which suits centerfire rifles commonly used for longer-range shooting. Rimfire scopes, on the other hand, often feature a fixed parallax set at 50 yards. This makes them ideal for closer-range precision, which is exactly what you need for .22 caliber shooting or small game hunting.
2. BDC Reticle Design
   • A Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle in a Rimfire scope is calibrated specifically for .22 caliber projectiles. This allows for more accurate shot placement at varying distances without requiring constant adjustments. For shooters who prefer “point and shoot” simplicity, this feature is a game-changer.
3. Magnification Ranges
   • Rimfire scopes tend to offer magnification ranges that complement the short to mid-range distances typical of Rimfire shooting. You’ll often find options like 2-7x or 3-9x, which strike a perfect balance between versatility and practicality.

​If you’re a Midwest hunter, you might be surprised to learn that Rimfire optics can also shine in shotgun and straight-wall cartridge setups. Why? The average distance at which deer are harvested in the Midwest is just 47 yards. This aligns perfectly with the fixed 50-yard parallax setting found in Rimfire scopes. Here are some scenarios where Rimfire optics excel:

• Hunting in Dense Woodlands
  
  • Thick brush and tree cover limit visibility and shooting distance. A Rimfire scope with a 50-yard parallax setting ensures crisp focus at these closer ranges, giving you an edge when seconds count.
    
• Youth or Beginner Setups
  
  • Rimfire scopes are often more compact and lighter than their centerfire counterparts, making them an excellent choice for younger or less experienced hunters.
    

​The word “Rimfire” on a rifle scope doesn’t mean “less than.” It means purpose-built precision for closer-range shooting, whether that’s a day at the range with a .22 or a Midwest deer hunt with a shotgun. These scopes bring all the quality you expect from top-tier optics, with features specifically designed to help you succeed in your chosen application.
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So, next time you’re shopping for a scope, don’t overlook the Rimfire options. They might just be the perfect tool for your hunting or shooting needs.