Poll: Help me choose my first 22lr plinker

[Salty Possum]

So I want to buy my first 22lr rifle in the next month or two. I'm thinking either a Ruger 10/22 or a Marlin XT-22, but I'm open to suggestions for something else (less than $350 please, I'm on a tight budget). Right now I'm leaning towards the Marlin cause I'm a fan of the bolt actions, but the Ruger has so many things you can do to it.

 

[ATM]

The Marlin/Appleseed LTR

...soon.

 

[LD36]

I'd say you couldn't go wrong with either one. However, if you ever think you would want to customize it, the 10/22 is the way to go. Seems like 10/22's are like ARs and Glocks... almost unlimited add ons and custom parts are available for 'em.

 

[HmDBrian]

Whatever you think you would like more.if you like bolt action than the marlin should serve ya good. But as stated above, you can customize a 10/22 with endless possibilities, which is why I would chose it over the marlin, but its your rifle, so whatever you think you would enjoy more is what you should pick.

 

[w_ADAM_d88]

I voted other because I'm partial to the Marlin Model 60. However, I dont think you could go wrong with any of the above choices.

 

[Bapak2ja]

Avoid the Remington-made Marlin for a couple more years until they prove they can make a quality rifle. They have had serious problems for the past two years, at least. It appears their quality is improving, but I would wait a bit before buying a Remlin. If you can get a JM-stamped XT-22, it is a viable option. Otherwise, go with the 10/22. It is still a high-quality rifle.

 

[parkerj112]

I voted other for a savage mark II bolt action if you like/prefer bolt guns. Personally though if it were me and it was my first 22 plinker I would go with a wood stock 10/22. That way you can do APPLESEED! You can do it with a bolt gun but it just makes it harder on you.

Parker

 

[Dr_O]

For the fun factor a semi is hard to beat. Ruger or Marlin 60.

If it is to be a hunter I would go with a bolt action. Savage or Marlin. Or CZ if you can come up with a few more $.

 

[Shiban]

Avoid the Remington-made Marlin for a couple more years until they prove they can make a quality rifle. They have had serious problems for the past two years, at least. It appears their quality is improving, but I would wait a bit before buying a Remlin. If you can get a JM-stamped XT-22, it is a viable option. Otherwise, go with the 10/22. It is still a high-quality rifle.

+1 Remlin=

 

[ru44mag]

Funny...before I saw your choices, those were the 2 rifles I was going to recommend. I have had my 10/22 for close to 30 years and I'm sure it has way over 10,000 rounds through it, probably over 15,000. Never had the first issue. My Marlin XT-22 on the other hand only has 10 rounds through it. I have wanted one for years and Dunhams keeps putting them on sale for $169 and I couldn't pass it up. If your budget is $350 you could maybe get both. I do agree with the fun factor part. 10/22 wins there. Good luck with your choice.

 

[Enthusiast]

On a tight budget? My 1st rifle was a Sears bolt action made in the 1960's. It still works flawlessly and the resale value is nearly nill.

 

[LANShark42]

I bought a Remington 597 combo at GM for $200. Nice little 3x9 scope included. Cabelas has the 30 round mags for it. Best of all, it was IN STOCK! Can't wait to shoot it.

 

[bakeman]

those are both good rifles. Of the two i would pick the ruger. However, An older Marlin model 60 is sweet, and if you want a lever gun instead, pick up an older marlin 39a. you cant beat those things.

 

[Westside]

Buy both then you don't have choose!

 

[KLB]

For $350 there are a lot of bolt action choices from Savage. I personally went with a FV-SR. I like all of my 22s to have threaded barrels.

 

[BJones]

The 10/22 is great and many options and accessories are available. I recently picked up a S&W M&P 15-22 which is a ton of fun.
Both are great guns.

 

[VikingWarlord]

I know they're not really popular but I like my Mossberg 702 quite a bit. It's a no-frills straight shooter. They're also pretty inexpensive.

The 10/22 is also another excellent selection and I'd love to get one like my brother had when we were kids. I wonder what happened to that gun.

 

[Jerchap2]

I have heard good things about both rifles, but I am biased toward Ruger.

 

[jb1911]

I chose "other" and I will specify this:

Remington 597

 

[traderdan]

Go with the best...look around and find an old Remington 552 if you want a semi-auto. I know we commonly refer to .22 rifles as plinkers,but in reality they are very effective weapons,and if times get tough,what you buy in a .22 rifle will become very important! I like the little Ruger semi-autos also,but IMO the older Remingtons are the best!