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
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

Yackley Aiming Devices 2
Yackley Aiming Devices 2

Understanding Firearm Aiming Devices

No matter what aiming solution is on your firearm, learning to use it is the most important part!

8 Great Rifles for Women

In the market for a big-game rifle that will actually fit you? Check out these options.

Lanny Barnes Takes High Lady Title at 2024 NRA World Shooting Championship

Among the competitors were some familiar names to NRA Women.

Straight Shooter Profile: Meet Shoot United's Dania Vizzi

Dania Vizzi is one of eight elite shotgun athletes who will be competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Walther Arms and Hornady Promotion: Buy a Pistol, Get a Safe

Receive a Hornady Treklite Lockbox XXL or a Hornady One-Gun Keypad Vault with the purchase of select Walther handguns.

The Armed Citizen® April 19, 2024

An 85-year-old woman's determination, will to live—and her .357 Mag. revolver—saved her life during a violent home invasion.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.