
01 // LEARN
Understanding this shooting discipline
NRL22 is precision rifle competition using .22 LR rimfire rifles. It applies PRS (Precision Rifle Series) concepts - positional shooting, time pressure, varied targets - at a fraction of the cost. Matches use steel targets from 25 to 100+ yards.
Base Class restricts equipment to encourage skill development over spending. Open Class (NRL22X) allows any .22 LR rifle with no restrictions. The low ammunition cost makes regular practice affordable.
02 // START
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into nrl22 doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
What you need to get started
Know these before your first shot
Advice from experienced shooters
Realistic budget expectations
$500-1,000
Basic equipment to begin
$1,500-2,100 (Base Class limit)
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: This is one of the most affordable precision rifle disciplines. Quality ammunition matters more than rifle price.
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Ruger Precision Rimfire, Savage B22 Precision. Factory chassis, good triggers. | Best value for new shooters; under $500 |
| Base Class Max CZ 457 MTR/Varmint, Bergara B-14R. Better triggers, tighter actions. | Competitive Base Class; approaches $1,000 limit |
| NRL22X Vudoo, custom builds, semi-autos. No MSRP limits apply. | Open class shooters wanting maximum performance |
03 // ASK
Common questions about nrl22
New to nrl22? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about nrl22 rimfire precision. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
Base Class requires bolt action. NRL22X allows semi-automatics like the Ruger 10/22 with appropriate modifications.
Standard velocity (1050 fps) is usually more consistent than high velocity. Eley, SK, Lapua, and CCI Standard Velocity are popular. Test different lots in your rifle.
Typically 25 to 100 yards, with some matches pushing to 200 yards. Targets scale with distance to maintain difficulty.
Yes. Positional shooting, wind reading, and stage management transfer directly. Many centerfire PRS shooters also compete in NRL22.
Rifle MSRP must be under $1,050, scope under $1,050 (new prices from manufacturer). This prevents equipment arms races and keeps competition accessible.
04 // FIND
Find nrl22 events near you
This is a .22 LR benchrest match where you're shooting from a rest for accuracy at longer rimfire distances. It's the kind of competition that teaches you how small details in technique and rifle setup actually matter, without the cost and recoil of centerfire matches. You'll be shooting groups from a bench rest at Lima Sabres. Benchrest teaches you to read your gun and ammo, and it's a clean way to see if your fundamentals are solid. Simple format, fair scoring, and plenty of shooters there learning the same things you are.
Airgun competition uses compressed-air-powered rifles or pistols to engage precision targets at 10 meters. This is the same discipline shot at the Olympic Games and is one of the most accessible entry points into competitive shooting. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distance | 10 meters | | Divisions | Air Rifle, Air Pistol | | Venue | Indoor (typically) | | Round count | 40-60 shots | Indoor, climate-controlled environment Minimal noise -- no ear protection needed in most cases No age restrictions at most clubs Develops precision fundamentals applicable to all shooting Contact BRC Indoor Range for equipment requirements and entry fees.
Juniors Smallbore Practice is a .22 LR rimfire match at Meta Con Gun Club where young shooters get competitive trigger time without the expense and recoil of centerfire. It's the fastest way to learn match discipline and develop real shooting skills. This is a practice format, not a sanctioned championship, so the focus stays on reps and feedback. Juniors shoot against each other in a low-pressure environment where mistakes teach faster than lectures. If you've got a .22 rifle or pistol and want to see how you stack up, this is where you find out.
This is a rimfire match restricted to RSO-only shooters using .22 LR rifles or pistols—a straightforward, low-cost competition format that lets you test accuracy and speed without breaking the bank on ammunition. It's the kind of match where you'll see solid fundamentals matter more than expensive gear. You'll shoot against other RSOs at USI Multi Purpose Range in Concord on June 9th at 9 AM. Rimfire matches typically run tight stages with varying distances and target arrays, giving you real feedback on your marksmanship in a competitive setting.
Location: Silhouette Range Match Director: Frank Callahan Weekly on Tuesday mornings at 9:00 AM Safety Meeting at 8:45 am.
This is a .22 rimfire match at USI Multi Purpose Range—affordable competition that lets you test accuracy and speed without the cost of centerfire ammo. Rimfire matches are the smart way to build fundamentals and see how you stack against other shooters. The match runs RSO-only, meaning range officers handle the line. You'll shoot your .22 rifle or pistol through a format designed to be straightforward and competitive. It's the kind of event where you show up, compete clean, and leave knowing exactly where your shooting stands.