Editors’ Picks 2019: Winchester Wildcat .22 LR Rifle

Winchester Repeating Arms, for the first time in many years, has added an autoloader to its product lineup. The Wildcat, a blowback-operated semi-automatic chambered in .22 Long Rifle, will feed from 10-round rotary magazines of Winchester’s own design, however, it is also compatible with both Ruger 10/22 magazines and the various aftermarket designs that follow the 10/22 pattern. Weighing only 4 lbs. despite an 18" barrel, the Wildcat shaves ounces due to its skeletonized, thumbhole polymer buttstock and willowy contours. Sights consist of a fully adjustable ghost-ring rear incorporated into an integral Picatinny optic rail and a ramped post front. Depressing a button just behind the rear sight allows the striker-fired bolt and trigger assembly (which Winchester calls the lower receiver assembly) to be removed from the receiver. Doing so permits the Wildcat to be cleaned chamber-to-bore, as is ideal for all firearms. winchesterguns.com