Why Plinking is Perfect for Everyone

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.”

by posted on May 28, 2021
** 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. **
Bachman With .22

Shooting a .22 is an incredible way to improve your shooting skills, and I have to admit, it’s one of the most fun ways I know to practice. My setup includes a Silencer Central Banish 22 suppressor for my Winchester Wildcat .22. The suppressor brings the sound down to about 120 decibels, which is just 10 decibels more than a BB gun. This makes shooting a .22 extremely fun with low recoil and minimal noise. I also like to shoot reactive targets when plinking, because regardless of range or distance, you can tell if you hit your mark.

Hunting Preparation
Personally, I almost never take an off-hand shot at big game; I always use a tripod shooting stick. It’s still good to practice your off-hand shots as well. It’s important to be constantly thinking about technique. The last thing you want to do is create bad habits, so be conscious about what you’re doing and practice good habits, even when plinking.

Another way to prepare for fall and real hunting situations is to work out first, then grab your .22. Plinking when you’re winded is a great way to practice controlling your breathing. I’ve had to take plenty of shots winded, so it’s very important to practice. Shooting a .22 makes it easy regardless of the caliber you plan to use in the field.

New Shooters
Plinking is not only great for hunters prepping for fall, but for kids and newbies interested in shooting, too. It’s so important to make kids and new shooters feel comfortable and unafraid when they squeeze the trigger, and a .22 is ideal for that. The lower sound, minimal recoil and easy maneuverability are huge benefits. The cost of rounds is also very economical, so you can do a day's worth of shooting for a low cost.

Vermin, Rodents and Raccoons, Oh, My!
Once you’ve tired of shooting targets at the range, try hunting with your .22 as well. Always check your local regulations, but many states have options to hunt squirrel, rabbits, raccoon, prairie dogs and other animals with a .22. This can be a really fun way to spend an afternoon, rid your garden of pests, and get a little hunting in during the off season.

Latest

Rao Off Season Rifle Getting Into Position Photo By Rao
Rao Off Season Rifle Getting Into Position Photo By Rao

It's Time for Your Rifle's Off-Season Check-Up

When fall hunting season is just around the corner, summer is time to make sure your guns and gear are in shape for shooting.

The Armed Citizen® Reload July 18, 2025

A spousal abuser and a registered sex offender met their fate while attempting to carry out their crimes. 

Want to Become an Outdoors Woman? Here's One Way to Start.

The successful BOW program (Becoming an Outdoors-Woman) began in 1990 in Wisconsin but its popularity as one of the leading programs for women has propelled its expansion into 38 states.

Winchester Safes Donating to Kerr County Flood Relief

Through July 31, 100 percent of its profits from online sales will go to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

The Headrest Safe Company Introduces Compact Model

Take your firearm, cash, medications and more in your vehicle and relax knowing it will stay out of the hands of kids, valets or intruders.

What’s a Monolithic Bullet?

What do monolithic bullets do, and what are they good for?

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.