One of the best tools at a defensive shooter’s disposal may be a rimfire pistol to practice with. The firearms are relatively inexpensive, as is the ammunition, which makes more practice, more affordable. As well, the .22s low recoil allows shooters to isolate and improve fundamental skills such as grip, sight picture and trigger press. There are a wide array of suitable firearms on the market today, from sporting-style .22s to rimfire reproductions of popular center-fire guns. This week we take a closer look at the little .22 Long Rifle cartridge, and talk about why it may be a big deal for defensive shooters. Check out this week's NRA Gun Gear of the Week video, hosted by Joe Kurtenbach.






NRA Gun Gear of the Week: .22s For Defensive Shooters
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Interests
New for 2026: Heckler & Koch VPA1 X and VP9A1 Tactical Pistols | An Official Journal Of The NRA
- New Mauser M98 Das Original Bolt-Action Rifle Includes .300 Win. Mag. Chambering | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- Beretta’s B22 Jaguar Metal Competition Brings Racegun Polish to Rimfire Steel | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- First Look: Daniel Defense Mute & Null Suppressors | An Official Journal Of The NRA










