Legionnaire
Contributing Member
You haven't said what aspects of "the hobby" mean the most to you, other than your reference to a .22.
If plinking is most important: replace your .22(s).
If small game hunting or clay birds is most important: get a pump-action 12 gauge.
If big game hunting is most important: get a bolt-action rifle (or a slug barrel for your 12 gauge).
If handgunning is important: I'd opt for a .357 revolver.
If self defense: get a quality 9mm (or .40).
And I'd get an inexpensive reloading setup ... like a Lee Classic Turret. You have a wide range of options--from cheap plinking to self-defense to hunting--with a .357 revolver and a reloading press.
If plinking is most important: replace your .22(s).
If small game hunting or clay birds is most important: get a pump-action 12 gauge.
If big game hunting is most important: get a bolt-action rifle (or a slug barrel for your 12 gauge).
If handgunning is important: I'd opt for a .357 revolver.
If self defense: get a quality 9mm (or .40).
And I'd get an inexpensive reloading setup ... like a Lee Classic Turret. You have a wide range of options--from cheap plinking to self-defense to hunting--with a .357 revolver and a reloading press.