Want a good practice rifle.

[CrufflerSteve]

I'd also go for the 10/22. They are reliable and as accurate as you want. I bought a crapped out one for next to nothing, rusted barrel & beatup stock. I replaced the barrel with a fluted one, synthetic stock and decent scope and it shoots great. I also have one with regular sights for practice. There's a whole industry for 10/22 customizing. Better rigger sets, barrels & such.

There are also the silly dress up kits. There's a gatling gun kit that uses a few. How about this: http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/c....aspx?a=180441

Steve

[theGinsue]

I must admit that I really like that "dress up kit". I'm also particularly fond of the Archangel kit. http://www.cabelas.com/p-0069004230015a.shtml

[CrufflerSteve]

I must admit that I really like that "dress up kit". I'm also particularly fond of the Archangel kit. http://www.cabelas.com/p-0069004230015a.shtml

Cool! How about http://www.tacticalinc.com/ruger-102...num-p-571.html?

Automobile & motorcycle guys think they do all the customizing but gun people can have fun. If I ever have too much money I'll have lots of gun toys.

Steve

[jerrymrc]

If I was buying a new one it would be a Marlin 980s. Bolt with a mag 22LR and cheap. Used would be an 80. Same as above just cheaper. Real wood and accurate.

[vossman]

Aghhh, too much good info. Thanks for all the replies. I need to narrow it down a bit.

Definitely gonna go with a bolt action, may go the inexpensive route with a Marlin or Savage and a fair scope. I have my local shop checking on the CZ 452 Varmint but that is kind of expensive as is the 77/22. I know if I got either of those I'd have to put a good Nikon or Leupold scope on it.

Do you think there is a reason to go with a 22 mag or 17HMR instead of 22LR? It would be much cheaper if I stuck with the LR but will it be as accurate at 100 yrds?

[Irving]

I've heard that people like .17HMR over .22lr because the 17 is faster and flatter shooting. Personally, I have this fantasy that one day I'll get around to getting a suppressor so I'm stuck on .22lr.

[GreenScoutII]

buy a 10/22. they are the best .22s out there IMO

Yep. What he said.

[GreenScoutII]

Do you think there is a reason to go with a 22 mag or 17HMR instead of 22LR? It would be much cheaper if I stuck with the LR but will it be as accurate at 100 yrds?

In my experience .22 mag is good for varmints out to about 120 yds. .17HMR, maybe 150. .22lr with good, target ammo can be very accurate at 100 yds. The trick is slow bullets. Google "trans sonic .22lr" for a much better description than I can provide as to what happens much beyond that.

IMHO, go with the .22 lr.