Summer Plinking: Little Cartridge, Big Fun

This tiny round can be the source of the most enjoyment on the range.

by posted on July 19, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Melissa Bachman Holding 22 Winchester Wildcat Cartridge

In my opinion you’re never too old to get out and do a little plinking. My first gun was a .22 and I can’t even begin to try and count the amount of rounds I’ve sent downrange. Not only is it a great way to spend time together as a family, it’s truly a helpful tool to improve your shooting skills. 

One of the best parts of plinking with .22 LR is the fact that there is no recoil and very minimal sound. This helps each and every one of us really focus on good shooting techniques and you can make it as fun as possible. As kids we used to bet a dollar on who could hit the most cans in a row. Now there are tons of great paper targets, spinning targets, all kinds of things to make it even more fun. We also love taking balloons out for the older kids so they get great visuals as they make one good hit after another. 

As seasoned shooters we know that practice makes perfect, and the last thing you want to do is take the entire summer off from shooting and then expect to get right back into it where you left off in the fall. By spending time at the range plinking you keep up that discipline and continue to become a better shooter, rather than loosing some of that shooting ability each year. 

For kids, I believe it’s about so much more than just shooting or plinking. It’s learning about firearm safety, following rules and listening to direction, building confidence and most importantly spending time together as a family … away from electronics or other distractions. 

Latest

GRITR DSG Partner For Womens Hunting Line Lede
GRITR DSG Partner For Womens Hunting Line Lede

GRITR Partners with DSG Outerwear to Expand Women's Hunting Clothing 

This collaboration brings a wider variety of specialized gear in both camouflage patterns and solid colors designed specifically for female outdoor enthusiasts.

Muddy Introduces All-New Women's Camouflage Layering System

Engineered around women's biomechanics, this system caters to women hunters in both form and function.

Favorite Finds From SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range: Part 1

Here are the first few standouts of the products we were able to get our hands on at this dynamic SHOT Show kickoff event.

New for 2026: Fresh ROSE Gear & Apparel

If you are one of the millions of fans of SIG Sauer's ROSE brand of guns and gear, you'll want to check out its newest rose-adorned items.

Shooting While Seated

In a self-defense situation, you might be forced to draw and shoot while you are seated. Have you trained for that?

 

Sweet! NRA Women Dessert Social at Great American Outdoor Show 2026

Join your freedom-loving sisters from on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026 for desserts, tea, coffee and genuine conversation in a welcoming community atmosphere.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.