The best 22 mag semi auto rifle currently available is the Savage A22 Magnum. It stands out by successfully solving the reliability issues that plague most 22 WMR autoloader designs by utilizing an innovative delayed blowback action. This ensures safe, consistent cycling with high pressure magnum rimfire ammunition while preventing the case ruptures seen in older blowback rifles. The rifle offers excellent accuracy thanks to its button rifled carbon steel barrel and the crisp, user adjustable AccuTrigger. It provides unmatched overall value for the price, combining a reliable 10 round rotary magazine with durable build quality for small game hunters and target shooters.
Best 22 Mag Semi Auto Rifle
| Rifle | Action | Barrel Length | Thread Size | Twist Rate | Weight | Magazine Capacity | Accuracy Result | Price | Best For |
| Savage A22 Magnum | Delayed Blowback | 21″ | Unthreaded | 1:16 | 5.5 lbs | 10 | 1.0″ to 1.5″ at 50 yds | $539 MSRP | Best Overall Reliability |
| KelTec CMR-30 | Direct Blowback | 16″ | 1/2×28 | 1:14 | 3.8 lbs | 30 | 1.5″ to 2.0″ at 50 yds | $729 MSRP | Backpacking and Capacity |
| Rossi RS22 Magnum | Direct Blowback | 21″ | Unthreaded | 1:16 | 5.6 lbs | 10 | 1.5″ at 50 yds | $339 MSRP | Budget Varminting |
| Tippmann M4-22 WMR Elite | Direct Blowback | 16″ | 1/2×28 | 1:16 | 5.7 lbs | 15 | 1.0″ to 1.5″ at 50 yds | $729 MSRP | Tactical AR Training |
| Volquartsen Superlite 22 WMR | Direct Blowback | 16.75″ | 1/2×28 | 1:16 | 5.3 lbs | 9 | Sub-MOA at 50 yds | $1,600+ MSRP | Premium Match Accuracy |
| Bear Creek BC-202 22 WMR | Direct Blowback | 16″ | 1/2×28 | 1:16 | 6.5 lbs | 9 | 1.0″ to 1.5″ at 50 yds | $495 MSRP | Side Charging AR Build |
| Excel Arms Accelerator MR-22 | Direct Blowback | 18″ | Unthreaded | 1:16 | 8.0 lbs | 9 | 1.5″ at 50 yds | $550 MSRP | Heavy Bench Target |
| CZ 512 (Discontinued) | Direct Blowback | 20.6″ | Unthreaded | 1:16 | 5.9 lbs | 5 or 10 | 1.0″ at 50 yds | ~$500 Used | Classic Reliability |
| Magnum Research MLR22WMH (Discontinued Semi Auto) | Gas Assisted | 18″ | Unthreaded | 1:16 | 4.5 lbs | 9 | 1.0″ at 50 yds | ~$800 Used | Lightweight Carry |
| Ruger 10/22 Magnum (Discontinued) | Direct Blowback | 18.5″ | Unthreaded | 1:14 | 6.5 lbs | 9 | 1.5″ at 50 yds | ~$1,000+ Used | Customization Base |
| Remington 597 Magnum (Discontinued) | Direct Blowback | 20″ | Unthreaded | 1:16 | 6.0 lbs | 8 | 1.25″ to 1.5″ at 50 yds | ~$400 Used | Used Market Bargain |
Savage A22 Magnum
The Savage A22 Magnum delivers exceptional build quality built entirely around the pressures of the .22 WMR cartridge. Independent testing reveals highly consistent accuracy, typically producing 1.0 to 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards thanks to the 21 inch button rifled carbon steel barrel. Reliability is best in class because Savage utilized a delayed blowback action instead of a standard blowback mechanism. An interrupter lug holds the bolt closed until chamber pressure drops to a safe level, which eliminates the case rupture risk that plagued earlier semi auto designs. Handling feels natural for field hunting, and the user adjustable AccuTrigger allows shooters to dial in a crisp break for precise shots. It feeds dependably from a flush fitting 10 round rotary magazine. Practical experience from reviewers confirms it cycles smoothly in harsh conditions where competitors struggle. It is best suited for small game hunters and ranchers needing rapid, reliable follow up shots. The only meaningful weakness is the basic synthetic stock, which can feel somewhat hollow.
Pros:
- Highly reliable delayed blowback action handles pressures safely
- Excellent factory adjustable AccuTrigger
- Flush fitting 10 round rotary magazine
- Factory mounted two piece Weaver bases
Cons:
- Basic synthetic stock lacks premium feel
- Barrel does not come threaded from the factory on standard models
KelTec CMR-30
The KelTec CMR-30 provides a highly unique build quality focused on extreme lightweight portability and massive firepower. Accuracy is acceptable for a truck gun, producing 1.5 to 2.0 inch groups at 50 yards. Reliability is dependent on cleanliness and ammunition, as the gun requires high quality supersonic 22 mag ammunition to cycle its straight blowback action effectively. Handling is incredible, weighing just 3.8 pounds unloaded and featuring a collapsible stock that brings the overall length down to 22.5 inches. The trigger breaks cleanly at roughly 5 pounds. The 16 inch barrel is factory threaded in 1/2×28 and includes an aluminum chassis with integral Picatinny rails. It feeds from dual flush fit magazines that remarkably hold 30 rounds each. Reviewers praise it as a phenomenally fun packable carbine, provided the user carefully loads the rimmed cartridges into the magazine to prevent binding. This rifle is best suited for backpackers, campers, and shooters wanting maximum capacity in a tiny footprint. Its main weakness is a tendency to jam if the magazine is loaded incorrectly or if the action gets excessively dirty.
Pros:
- Incredible 30 round magazine capacity
- Ultralight 3.8 pound weight unloaded
- Collapsible stock makes it highly portable
- Factory threaded barrel
Cons:
- Magazines must be loaded with extreme care to prevent rim lock
- Action fouls quickly when shot suppressed
Rossi RS22 Magnum
The Rossi RS22 Magnum delivers highly functional, budget friendly build quality for shooters wanting magnum rimfire power without a large investment. Accuracy is very solid for the price, reliably producing 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards. Reliability is quite good, driven by a heavy bolt mass designed to safely contain the .22 WMR pressure curve. Handling is full sized but lightweight, weighing 5.6 pounds and featuring a 21 inch barrel set into a matte black polymer stock. The trigger is somewhat heavy, which is standard for rimfire rifles in this price bracket. It lacks a threaded barrel but includes a factory installed Picatinny rail for turnkey optics mounting. It uses a standard 10 round detachable box magazine. Reviewers highlight it as an unbeatable value for farm pest control, noting it cycles jacketed magnum rounds very cleanly. It is best suited for budget minded buyers who need an inexpensive truck gun for varmint hunting. Its main weakness is the lack of aftermarket support and the heavy trigger pull.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable retail price
- Reliable feeding with jacketed ammunition
- Factory installed Picatinny scope rail
- Lightweight polymer stock
Cons:
- Trigger pull is heavy out of the box
- Very limited aftermarket upgrades available
Tippmann Arms M4-22 WMR Magnum Elite
The Tippmann Arms M4-22 WMR Magnum Elite offers premium tactical build quality, meticulously engineered to replicate the look and feel of a genuine AR-15 platform. Accuracy is stellar, frequently printing 1.0 to 1.25 inch groups at 50 yards with quality ammunition. Reliability is exceptional, as Tippmann designed the action specifically for the longer magnum cartridge rather than merely adapting a .22 LR model. Handling is identical to a standard M4 carbine, providing a fully functional bolt catch, forward assist, and mil spec trigger compatibility. The 16 inch steel barrel comes threaded 1/2×28 for easy suppressor attachment. It feeds from robust 15 round proprietary magazines that are highly regarded for their durability. Reviewers revere this rifle as the ultimate rimfire trainer for AR enthusiasts, praising its aluminum upper and lower receivers. It is best suited for tactical training and high volume target shooters wanting AR ergonomics. Its main weakness is the higher retail cost compared to traditional hunting rimfires.
Pros:
- True AR-15 functionality and manual of arms
- Reliable 15 round magazine capacity
- High quality aluminum upper and lower receivers
- Accepts standard AR-15 aftermarket triggers and grips
Cons:
- Noticeably more expensive than budget rimfires
- Magazines are proprietary and costly to replace
Volquartsen Superlite 22 WMR
The Volquartsen Superlite 22 WMR showcases world class custom build quality, representing the absolute pinnacle of semi auto rimfire engineering. Accuracy is phenomenal, routinely shooting sub-MOA groups at 50 yards thanks to its precision machined tolerances. Reliability is flawless, utilizing a CNC machined aluminum hard anodized receiver and a carefully tuned bolt weight to handle magnum pressures. Handling is incredibly nimble, weighing just 5.3 pounds, made possible by the lightweight carbon fiber tension barrel. The trigger is legendary, breaking like glass at roughly 2 pounds directly from the factory. The 16.75 inch barrel features 1/2×28 threads and includes a Forward Blow Compensator. It utilizes a dependable 9 round rotary magazine. Independent reviewers confirm that this rifle extracts every bit of accuracy the .22 WMR cartridge has to offer while cycling effortlessly. It is best suited for serious marksmen and hunters who demand custom rifle performance and have the budget to support it. The single meaningful weakness is the extreme premium price tag.
Pros:
- Unmatched match grade accuracy
- Ultralight carbon fiber tension barrel
- Phenomenal 2 pound target trigger
- Machined aluminum receiver
Cons:
- Extremely high retail price
- May require cleaning more frequently than a bolt action to maintain match accuracy
Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 22 WMR
The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 22 WMR provides rugged build quality through an AR style side charging configuration. Accuracy is very consistent, generally producing 1.0 to 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards, supported by the 16 inch 416R stainless steel match grade barrel. Reliability is solid, featuring a high performance bolt and an enhanced firing pin designed to strike hard magnum rimfire primers consistently. Handling is highly ergonomic, utilizing a black Hogue stock and a patented right side charging handle that makes chambering rounds fast and intuitive. The trigger is crisp, and the 7075 T6 aluminum receiver includes an integrated Picatinny rail. The barrel comes threaded 1/2×28 directly from the factory. It feeds from a unique 9 round detachable rotary magazine. Reviewers appreciate the blend of AR-15 styling with traditional hunting stocks. It is best suited for shooters looking for an affordable, side charging AR platform in a magnum caliber. Its main weakness is its heavier weight of 6.5 pounds for a standard hunting rifle.
Pros:
- Patented side charging upper receiver
- High quality 416R stainless steel barrel
- Accepts many aftermarket Ruger 10/22 Magnum components
- Factory threaded for suppressors
Cons:
- Heavier 6.5 pound empty weight
- Requires specialized rotary magazines
Excel Arms Accelerator MR-22
The Excel Arms Accelerator MR-22 delivers incredibly heavy duty build quality, utilizing stainless steel construction and a massive bull barrel. Accuracy is impressive off the bench, reliably holding 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards. Reliability is robust, relying on a heavy bolt mass and stiff recoil spring to manage the intense blowback pressure. Handling is extremely stable but heavy, weighing in at 8.0 pounds unloaded. The trigger is functional but utilitarian. The 18 inch fluted stainless steel barrel is highly durable but typically does not come threaded. It features a full length aluminum rib for easy optic mounting and feeds from a proprietary 9 round magazine. Reviewers note that the sheer weight of the rifle absorbs almost all felt recoil, making follow up shots incredibly fast. It is best suited for benchrest shooters or hunters who shoot from a stationary blind where rifle weight is an advantage. Its main weakness is the 8.0 pound weight, which makes it exhausting to carry through the woods on a sling.
Pros:
- Extremely durable stainless steel construction
- Heavy weight absorbs all recoil
- Fluted bull barrel dissipates heat rapidly
- Full length optic rail
Cons:
- Very heavy for field carry
- Magazines can be difficult to load to full capacity
CZ 512 (Discontinued)
The CZ 512 provides fantastic build quality, utilizing an aluminum upper receiver paired with a fiberglass reinforced polymer lower. Accuracy is superb, leveraging CZ’s famous cold hammer forged barrel to print 1.0 inch groups at 50 yards. Reliability is exceptional, as the simple blowback action ejects brass forcefully and cycles jacketed magnum rounds flawlessly. Handling is perfectly balanced at 5.9 pounds, though the standard beech wood stock requires some head tipping to properly align with optics. The trigger has some take up but breaks cleanly. The 20.6 inch blued steel barrel is highly durable, and a tactical model was also produced featuring a threaded muzzle and chassis. It feeds from standard CZ polymer magazines. Reviewers consistently call it one of the most reliable semi autos ever made in this caliber. While recently discontinued by CZ, it remains highly relevant and widely available on the used market. It is best suited for shooters wanting a reliable, traditional looking autoloader. Its main weakness is the coarse factory iron sights and heavy trigger pull.
Pros:
- Extremely reliable action
- Highly accurate cold hammer forged barrel
- Easy to find replacement magazines
- Well balanced handling
Cons:
- Discontinued from factory production
- Beech stock design is not optimized for scope height
Magnum Research MLR22WMH (Discontinued Semi Auto)
The Magnum Research MLR22WMH showcases highly innovative build quality, originally utilizing a unique gas assisted blowback operation before the company transitioned entirely to straight pull actions. Accuracy is exceptional, frequently printing 1.0 inch groups at 50 yards. Reliability was good when kept clean, as the gas assist system helped manage the pressure curve better than pure blowback designs. Handling was unmatched in its class, weighing a mere 4.5 pounds thanks to its patented carbon fiber tensioned barrel. The trigger was crisp, and the receiver featured an integral Picatinny rail machined from 6061-T6 aluminum. It used standard 9 round rotary magazines. Reviewers praised the featherweight feel, making it the ultimate hunting rifle to carry all day. It is clearly identified as discontinued in its semi auto format, but remains highly sought after. It is best suited for collectors and hunters who prioritize ultralight weight above all else. Its main weakness is that the gas assist mechanism requires meticulous cleaning to prevent fouling and jamming.
Pros:
- Incredibly light 4.5 pound weight
- Highly accurate carbon fiber barrel
- Integrated Picatinny scope rail
- High quality aluminum receiver
Cons:
- Discontinued as a semi automatic model
- Gas system requires frequent detailed cleaning
Ruger 10/22 Magnum (Discontinued)
The Ruger 10/22 Magnum possesses legendary build quality based on the most famous rimfire receiver in the world, scaled up for magnum pressures. Accuracy is very solid, typically holding 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards with the factory 18.5 inch barrel. Reliability is heavily debated, as early models suffered from extraction issues and cracked receivers due to the massive bolt velocity generated by the 22 WMR cartridge. Handling is familiar and excellent, matching the classic 10/22 profile but weighing slightly more at 6.5 pounds. The trigger is standard Ruger factory spec, which is functional but heavy. It uses the famously reliable 9 round magnum rotary magazine. Reviewers note that while the factory rifle had flaws, it remains the ultimate base for custom builds because of the massive aftermarket support. Clearly identified as discontinued, it commands very high prices on the used market. It is best suited for experienced gunsmiths and hobbyists wanting to build a custom magnum rimfire from the ground up. Its main weakness is the notoriously high price on the used market combined with the risk of broken factory extractors.
Pros:
- Unmatched aftermarket parts compatibility
- Classic 10/22 handling and ergonomics
- Highly reliable rotary magazine
- Excellent base for custom builds
Cons:
- Long discontinued and very expensive on the used market
- Factory bolts cycle violently and require heavy tungsten buffers
Remington 597 Magnum (Discontinued)
The Remington 597 Magnum offers utilitarian build quality utilizing a unique dual steel guide rail system to support the bolt. Accuracy is surprisingly good, generally producing 1.25 to 1.5 inch groups at 50 yards with its heavy 20 inch barrel. Reliability is decent but highly dependent on the magazine generation, as early plastic magazines caused severe feeding jams. Handling feels like a full sized centerfire rifle, weighing 6.0 pounds and featuring a robust synthetic stock. The trigger breaks cleanly, and the receiver is grooved for easy scope mounting. It feeds from an 8 round box magazine. Reviewers frequently note that once upgraded with a third generation metal magazine and an aftermarket extractor, the 597 Magnum becomes a highly dependable workhorse. Clearly identified as discontinued, it is widely available used. It is best suited for bargain hunters looking for a full sized magnum autoloader at a low price point. Its main weakness is the unreliable factory magazines that must be replaced for the rifle to function properly.
Pros:
- Dual guide rail action is very smooth
- Heavy barrel provides good inherent accuracy
- Full size stock feels like a centerfire rifle
- Very affordable on the used market
Cons:
- Discontinued model
- Early factory magazines cause frequent feeding jams
Best 22 Mag Semi Auto Rifle Overall
The Savage A22 Magnum is the strongest overall option among the 11 rifles tested. It earns this ranking because it structurally solves the engineering problem that plagues almost all 22 WMR autoloaders. Because the 22 WMR generates peak chamber pressures that standard direct blowback actions cannot safely contain without massive bolt weights, many previous designs were discontinued due to reliability failures. By utilizing an innovative delayed blowback action, the A22 Magnum ensures the breech stays safely locked until pressures drop. This creates unmatched reliability while retaining a manageable overall weight. Furthermore, the inclusion of the AccuTrigger, reliable rotary magazines, and factory mounted scope bases make it the most complete, hassle free package available at a highly reasonable retail price.
Best 22 Mag Semi Auto Rifle Categories
Best Overall: Savage A22 Magnum
Best High Capacity Option: KelTec CMR-30
Best Budget Option: Rossi RS22 Magnum
Best AR Platform: Tippmann Arms M4-22 WMR Magnum Elite
Best Premium Option: Volquartsen Superlite 22 WMR
Best Heavy Bench Option: Excel Arms Accelerator MR-22
Best Used Market Bargain: Remington 597 Magnum (Discontinued)
Buying Guide
Thread Size
When selecting the best 22 mag semi auto rifle with a threaded barrel, confirming the thread pitch is essential. The vast majority of 22 WMR threaded barrels utilize the standard 1/2×28 thread pitch. This allows buyers to easily mount rimfire suppressors and muzzle brakes. Always verify that your chosen suppressor is rated for the higher pressures of the 22 Magnum cartridge, as not all standard 22 LR suppressors can handle it safely.
Barrel Length
Barrel length dictates handling and ballistic performance. For the 22 WMR cartridge, a 16 inch barrel is optimal for maintaining compact portability while still achieving excellent velocity. A 20 to 21 inch barrel pushes the balance point forward to steady the rifle for bench shooting or open field hunting. Because the 22 WMR uses slow burning powder, barrels between 16 and 21 inches allow for complete powder burn.
Action Type
Understanding the action type is critical when purchasing a semi auto 22 Magnum.
- Direct blowback actions rely entirely on a heavy bolt mass and stiff springs to keep the breech closed during firing. This can lead to heavy rifles or violent cycling.
- Delayed blowback actions, like the one used in the Savage A22, use mechanical interrupter lugs to briefly lock the bolt closed until chamber pressures drop to safe levels. This provides vastly superior reliability and prevents ruptured cartridge cases.
Accuracy
Evaluating accuracy claims requires careful attention to testing conditions. Shooters should ignore single advertised groups and rely on independent testing that averages multiple five shot groups at 50 yards. A quality 22 WMR semi auto will average 1.0 to 1.5 inches at 50 yards. True match grade rifles like the Volquartsen will average sub-MOA groups. Ammunition selection plays a massive role in rimfire accuracy.
Weight And Handling
Rifle weight matters significantly for hunting applications. A lightweight rifle like the KelTec CMR-30 (3.8 pounds) is effortless to carry in a backpack but can be harder to hold steady off hand. A heavier rifle like the Excel Arms MR-22 (8.0 pounds) absorbs all felt recoil and stabilizes easily on a shooting bag, but causes rapid fatigue if carried on a sling during long hunts.
Magazine
Magazine reliability is the number one cause of malfunctions in rimmed cartridge firearms. Rotary magazines, such as those used by Savage and Ruger, separate the cartridges internally to prevent the rims from interlocking. High capacity magazines like the KelTec 30 round version require the user to load them flawlessly to prevent rim lock jams.
Threaded Barrel
Buyers must verify the thread specification and the barrel diameter behind the threads. Some heavy contour barrels require specific thread protectors or adapters to properly align a direct thread suppressor. Always consult the manufacturer compatibility information for intended accessories.
Price And Value
Shoppers should compare features against the retail price. A budget rifle for $339 offers a low barrier to entry but may require a heavy trigger pull. A mid range rifle around $539 often provides the best long term value by including adjustable triggers and advanced bolt designs out of the box. Custom models exceeding $1,500 provide absolute perfection but require a massive financial commitment.
Manufacturer Claims vs Independent Reviews
There is a stark difference between manufacturer marketing and independent field testing. Manufacturers often highlight perfect laboratory performance. Independent reviews provide realistic expectations regarding how fast an action gets dirty and whether the magazine feeds reliably in the cold. Buyers should always give greater weight to independent field testing.
Current Availability
Building a reliable semi auto 22 WMR is notoriously difficult due to the cartridge pressure spike. As a result, many models face discontinuation. Four of the eleven rifles listed in this guide are discontinued models that remain highly relevant on the used market. Buyers should utilize online inventory searches to verify current factory availability before committing to a platform.
FAQs
What is the best 22 mag semi auto rifle?
The Savage A22 Magnum is currently the best 22 mag semi auto rifle due to its innovative delayed blowback action, which guarantees reliable cycling and exceptional accuracy.
What is the best budget 22 mag semi auto rifle?
The Rossi RS22 Magnum is the best budget option, offering a reliable blowback action, a 21 inch barrel, and a Picatinny rail for under $350.
Why are 22 WMR semi auto rifles rare?
They are rare because the .22 WMR cartridge generates high peak chamber pressures that cause the brass cases to rupture if used in a standard direct blowback design. Manufacturers must use heavy bolts, stiff springs, or expensive delayed blowback systems to make them safe.
What is the most accurate 22 mag semi auto rifle?
The Volquartsen Superlite 22 WMR is widely considered the most accurate semi auto 22 mag, routinely shooting sub-MOA groups due to its match barrel and 2 pound trigger.
What is the best AR style 22 mag rifle?
The Tippmann Arms M4-22 WMR Magnum Elite and the Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 are the best AR style 22 mag rifles, offering true tactical ergonomics and high capacity magazines.
Is a 22 mag semi auto good for hunting?
Yes, a 22 mag semi auto is excellent for hunting varmints and small game because it allows for rapid follow up shots and delivers significantly more terminal energy than a 22 LR.
Does a threaded barrel improve 22 mag accuracy?
A threaded barrel itself does not improve accuracy, but it allows shooters to attach suppressors or barrel tuners which can reduce recoil and positively alter barrel harmonics.
What thread size does a 22 mag rifle use?
The vast majority of modern 22 WMR rifles utilize a 1/2×28 thread pitch, making them compatible with standard rimfire suppressors.
Can you shoot 22 LR in a 22 Mag rifle?
No, it is extremely dangerous to shoot 22 LR in a 22 Mag rifle. The 22 WMR chamber is wider and longer; firing a 22 LR will cause the case to split and vent high pressure gas backward into the shooter’s face.