I must be getting old.
Perhaps it is because I have been
Officially dubbed
Grasshopper 1st Class by
Old Fuff. <---inside joke.
I really like the .22 rim fire. I think they are a 'must have'. Inexpensive ammo, fun, accurate, everyone should have one.
I know the original thread asked about a .22 trail gun. I happen to agree with The K framed Model 18 and the J frame "kit guns". Single Sixes are good. I like the Semis...for some stuff and have my druthers there as well...
That said:
Get a Used Model 10 snubby and use for a trail gun. Yeah I know the .22 lr ctgs won't work in it...gotta use .38spls.
Why?
Finding a good DA Revolver , like and OLD Smith or Colt is damn near impossible, folks tend to hold on to these and when you do find one - expensive.
My Preference to teach new shooters with a .22 Revolver is known...and I catch hell for it.
Using a K frame [ Model 10] with light loads I can do the same thing. Granted the ammo is a bit more. I am more interested in Safety, Correct Basic Fundamentals than money.
The "best" all around is a 3" RB K frame...I mean concealed is concealed, whether CCW, trail, on a range out by yourself shooting other stuff, fishing...
Used Police trade in Med Frame 38spls by Smith, Colt, Ruger - Just work. From shotshell loads to target wadcutters, to something with a bit more punch.
State Regs require I use a Min of 4" of bbl to handgun hunt. Taken many critters handgun hunting with a dedicated .38spl like a model 10.
My model 64 3" RB HB has too....shush don't tell...stainless must make that bbl "look" shorter than it really is....
The cold weather makes a J frame model 37 taking rabbits look small too.
Think about it. A used dedicated .38spl.
Too many backpacks, boats, canoes, and fishing tackle boxes have proven its worth...