Why a .22 Rifle Is Ideal for Squirrel Hunting
The .22 LR is the classic squirrel gun for good reason:
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Accurate and flat enough for typical 15–40 yard shots
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Low recoil, perfect for precision shooting
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Affordable ammunition makes practice easy
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Quiet report compared to larger calibers
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Minimal meat damage when using the right loads
With a reliable rifle and good shooting fundamentals, the .22 becomes an extremely effective tool for filling a game vest.
Finding Squirrels: Habitat and Timing
1. Hunt Around Mature Hardwoods
Squirrels concentrate around trees that offer reliable food sources:
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Oak ridges
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Hickory groves
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Walnut stands
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Beech flats
Hard mast drops attract heavy feeding activity, especially early fall.
2. Prime Times of Day
Squirrels are most active:
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Shortly after sunrise
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Late afternoon
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During calm, mild weather
Windy conditions reduce movement—squirrels prefer still mornings.
3. Listen Before You Look
Sound often reveals squirrels first:
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Barking and chattering
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Cutting nuts
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Leaves rustling as they move above you
Sit quietly for a few minutes before moving through productive timber.
Still-Hunting Squirrels With a .22
1. Move Slowly and Deliberately
Take a few steps, stop, scan the canopy, and repeat. Squirrels freeze when alarmed—patient hunters spot them first.
2. Use Cover and Shadows
Blend into tree trunks and natural shadows to avoid spooking feeding squirrels.
3. Pause Longer Than You Think
Stopping for 20–60 seconds at a time lets nervous squirrels resume movement, revealing their position.
4. Work Into the Wind
Woodland winds shift easily, but approaching into a slight breeze helps mask your movement and sound.
Effective Shot Placement With a .22
Head Shots
The gold standard for clean kills and minimal meat loss. Aim for:
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The base of the ear
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The top of the skull when quartering away
Shoulder Shots
Reliable and forgiving when squirrels are moving or partially hidden. This anchors them quickly but may cause minor meat loss.
Avoid Body Shots
They’re less predictable and may require follow-up shots. Always wait for a steady, ethical angle.
Shooting Tips for Better Accuracy
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Use a steady rest. Trees, sticks, or your pack make a big difference.
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Zero your rifle at 25–30 yards—perfect for most squirrel ranges.
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Practice from field positions like sitting or kneeling.
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Know your ammo’s trajectory—subsonic rounds drop more at distance.
Consistency and good fundamentals matter more than rifle brand or scope size.
Choosing the Right .22 Rifle and Ammo
Rifles
Bolt-actions, semi-autos, and lever guns all work well. Prioritize:
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Reliability
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Good trigger
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Consistent accuracy
A compact, lightweight .22 is easier to carry through the woods.
Scopes
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2–7x or 3–9x magnification is ideal
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Look for clear glass and a forgiving eye box
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Parallax adjustment down to 25 yards helps with precision
Ammunition
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Standard or subsonic loads offer excellent accuracy
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Hollow points expand quickly
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Solid-point rounds preserve more meat
Test several brands to find what groups best in your rifle.
Productive Squirrel-Hunting Tactics
1. Sit and Wait Near Food Sources
Find fresh cuttings under hickories or oaks and wait quietly—squirrels cycle through feeding trees every few minutes.
2. Hunt After Rain
Wet leaves let you move silently and make squirrels easier to spot.
3. Use Binoculars
A compact pair of 6x or 8x binoculars helps pick out tail flicks and ear movements.
4. Watch for Limb-to-Limb Movement
Squirrels often use mid-level branches as travel routes—follow their movement patterns and get ready for open shots.
Safety Considerations When Using a .22 in the Woods
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Always be aware of your backstop—a .22 can travel far.
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Avoid shooting at steep upward angles without a clear backdrop.
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Know where other hunters or hikers might be.
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Keep your muzzle pointed safely while scanning or moving.
Safety is especially important in dense timber where visibility is limited.
Essential Gear for Squirrel Hunting
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Lightweight .22 rifle
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Small game vest or backpack
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Binoculars
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Shooting sticks or field rest
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Quiet boots or rubber-soled shoes
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Gloves and camo hat
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Knife for field dressing
Pack light—you’ll move more quietly and stay alert longer.
Planning a Small-Game Hunt Through Find A Hunt
If you’re looking to sharpen your marksmanship, introduce a new hunter to the outdoors, or enjoy a relaxed mixed-bag hunt, squirrel hunting is the perfect fit. When you book through Find A Hunt, you get:
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Access to vetted small-game and predator outfitters
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Clear expectations about terrain, gear, and hunting style
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Opportunities across hardwood ridges, farmland, or mixed forest country
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A simple way to compare hunts and choose the perfect adventure
Explore small-game opportunities today and start planning your next hunt with confidence.
Squirrel Hunting FAQs
What’s the best range for .22 squirrel hunting?
Most shots fall within 15–40 yards, where .22 LR rifles are extremely accurate.
Is subsonic ammo good for squirrels?
Yes—subsonics are quiet and accurate, though their drop at longer distances must be considered.
Do I need camouflage?
Not required, but camo helps break up your outline in mixed hardwoods.
Are squirrels active in winter?
Yes. They move during warm spells and sunny afternoons, especially near remaining food sources.
Is a scope necessary?
No, but a low-power scope greatly improves accuracy and shot placement.
Ready to put these .22 rifle squirrel-hunting tactics to work? Explore outfitters and DIY small-game opportunities now at Find A Hunt and make the most of your next season in the woods.
