How versitle is a .22 LR - really?

[Matrix187]

My grandpa killed deer back before world war II with a .22 LR. RIght in the head... He knew there were better calibers out there for the job, but thats all he had.

 

[CSA 357]

In a tight the 22 rf could be a do all gun, and the ammo is still fairly cheap, i like shorts and cb caps, my 39a feeds them so good!

 

[nachosgrande]

I've held off an entire platoon of Cambodian guerrillas from a ditch with a broken leg with a Ruger 10/22. All kidding aside it's a brilliant caliber, but I think some people romanticize about it's realistic killing power. Way too inappropriate for deer.

 

[goon]

Not really any change.
My great uncle helped feed his and other families with a .22LR during the great depression. He killed 101 deer with his, with 99 of them shot between the eyes. It's not a powerhouse but don't pretend it isn't capable of feeding you. If it isn't, it's because you're doing something wrong.
Get close and aim for CNS.

 

[Redneck with a 40]

I much prefer the 22 mag, out of a rifle, it has twice the power at 100 yards. The extra cost is worth it to me, as I only shoot 100 rounds/month. I do have a Ruger 22/45, which is a joy to shoot and provides hours of cheap shooting fun. I just like the downrange power of the 22 mag.

 

[mr.trooper]

All kidding aside it's a brilliant caliber, but I think some people romanticize about it's realistic killing power. Way too inappropriate for deer.

If your hunting from a tree stand and taking 100 yard shoulder shots like a good little boy, then yes.

But if your starving and you stalk or ambush within 50 yards and take head shots, then no. Same goes for point blank shots on snared animals.