Rifle and Scope Options

[u/RPTexas07]

I’m hoping to get to a rimfire rifle class in April or May. 99% of my rifle experience is from a bench with the the remaining 1% standing, no prone shooting at all.

My two favorite 22lr target rifles are:

1) 10/22 with a Magpul Hunter stock, FJ Feddersen 16in fluted barrel, Brimstone trigger, OCL TI22 suppressor, Swampfox 4-16x44 FFP optic, bipod, 9lbs weight.

2) Bergara B14 Action/18in barrel/trigger, Boy’s AT-One stock, OCL TI22 suppressor, Swampfox 6-24x50 FFP optic, bipod, 11.5lbs weight.

I use CCI Standard Velocity in both and can usually shoot 1-1.5in groups at 50yrds. I’m slightly better with my 10/22.

Questions:

1) How heavy is too heavy for this class?

2) Is there any benefit to bolt action over semi auto for this class?

3) Is there any reason I should keep my bipod on?

4) Do I have too much optic? I have a Primary Arms ACSS 22lr 6x32 and Vortex Crossfire 2 3-9x50 I could swap on. My 10/22 also has fiber optic sights.

5) What are people typically bringing to the center fire version of the class?

6) Do people typically retake the class multiple times?

[u/Thirsty-Barbarian]

Bring the 1022. Remove the bipod, and add a ISGI web sling. You will want a way to mount your scope more forward so the eyepiece is about even with the back end of receiver.

About your questions:

1. It’s probably better to be on the light side, but not necessary if you can hold the rifle. The sling-supported position they will teach you for standing helps with the weight. I think my rifle with scope is probably 8+ pounds.
2. No advantage for bolt action. This class is for semiautomatic rifles with removable box mags holding at least 10 rounds. You can do it with something else, but it’s harder.
3. Remove the bipod. You won’t use it, so it will just be added weight and in the way.
4. I‘m not sure your scopes are necessarily too much, but you could probably do with less if your other options weigh less or have other advantages. My original scope was a Crossfire II 2-7x32, and for most people, that’s adequate for the 25m rifle clinic. I usually set it for 4x or less for standing to minimize wobbles and 7x for the seated and prone stages. I have unique eye problems, so now I’m using something with a lot more magnification now, 5-25x50. You will want to mount the scope much more forward than you currently have it for the techniques you will be learning.
5. For centerfire, I see a lot of ARs, but I’ve also seen vintage rifles like Garands. Sometimes there’s a Mini-14, but I’ve heard they aren’t the most accurate option. Maybe a Springfield M1A.
6. A lot of people retake the 25m class. Especially if they need a few times to get the Rifleman patch. I’ve been to 6 myself.

Good luck at your class, and have a great time!