Federal American Eagle 22 LR: Precision Performance for Rimfire Enthusiasts

Are you searching for reliable and consistent rimfire ammunition that delivers exceptional value without compromising performance? For shooters who demand precision for target practice or effective terminal ballistics for small game hunting, the Federal American Eagle 22 LR 38 gr Copper Plated Hollow Point stands out as a premier choice. This specific load, identified by UPC 029465016845 and MPN AE22, is engineered to provide the accuracy and reliability that modern rimfire firearms require.

Whether you're a seasoned competitive shooter, a casual plinker, or a hunter focusing on varmints and small game, the Federal American Eagle 22 LR offers a compelling solution. What makes this ammunition a go-to option for so many? It's the meticulous blend of quality components, consistent manufacturing processes, and a design optimized for widespread rimfire applications. This round is not just ammunition; it's an investment in reliable, repeatable performance shot after shot.

Why Choose Federal American Eagle 22 LR for Your Shooting Needs?

Understanding the unique benefits of the Federal American Eagle 22 LR can help shooters make informed decisions. This ammunition is crafted to address several common challenges and preferences encountered in rimfire shooting:

• Unwavering Reliability: Each round is built with quality brass casings and reliable priming, ensuring consistent ignition and cycling in a wide variety of .22 LR firearms, from semi-automatic pistols and rifles to bolt-action models. This means fewer stoppages and more time enjoying your shooting experience.
• Consistent Accuracy: The 38-grain copper-plated hollow point bullet is designed for stable flight and predictable trajectories, leading to tighter groupings on paper targets and greater confidence in the field. This consistency is vital for developing marksmanship skills or achieving precise shots on small targets.
• Affordable Performance: American Eagle is renowned for providing high-quality ammunition at a price point that encourages frequent practice. This affordability makes it an excellent choice for high-volume shooting sessions, training new shooters, or simply enjoying a relaxing day at the range without breaking the bank.
• Versatile Application: While primarily designed for target shooting, the copper-plated hollow point (CPHP) bullet offers capabilities suitable for small game and pest control. The hollow point design allows for controlled expansion upon impact, delivering effective energy transfer for humane and efficient takedowns.

Key Performance Attributes Explained: Muzzle Velocity, Muzzle Energy, and Bullet Design

To truly appreciate the engineering behind the Federal American Eagle 22 LR, it's helpful to delve into its specific performance characteristics:

• Muzzle Velocity of 1260 fps: This velocity places the AE22 in the "high-velocity" category for .22 LR ammunition. A muzzle velocity of 1260 feet per second means the bullet exits the barrel quickly, contributing to a flatter trajectory over typical rimfire engagement distances. This characteristic is beneficial for reducing bullet drop, making it easier to hit targets consistently, especially for beginners learning holdovers. How does this velocity impact your shooting? It translates directly to a more "point and shoot" experience within practical ranges, reducing the need for significant sight adjustments.
• Muzzle Energy of 134 ft lbs: With 134 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, the 38-grain CPHP bullet delivers sufficient power for its intended applications. For target shooting, this energy provides clear feedback on steel targets and creates well-defined holes on paper. For small game hunting, this energy, combined with the hollow point's expansion, ensures effective and ethical results on animals like squirrels, rabbits, or pest birds. Is this enough energy for hunting? Absolutely, for the specific small game species the .22 LR is designed for.
• 38 gr Copper Plated Hollow Point (CPHP) Bullet: The bullet's design is critical to its performance. The 38-grain weight is a common and effective compromise for the .22 LR, offering a good balance of velocity and kinetic energy. The copper plating serves multiple purposes: it helps reduce lead fouling in the barrel, which means less cleaning and potentially greater accuracy over longer shooting sessions. It also aids in smoother feeding and extraction, contributing to the ammunition's overall reliability. The hollow point cavity is engineered to promote controlled expansion upon impact, maximizing the bullet's effectiveness for hunting or pest control, differentiating it from simple round nose bullets.

Who is the Federal AE22 Best Suited For?

The versatility of the Federal American Eagle 22 LR 38 gr CPHP makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of shooters:

• Recreational Shooters and Plinkers: If you enjoy casual shooting at cans, reactive targets, or just punching holes in paper, the AE22 provides an economical and enjoyable experience. Its low recoil makes it perfect for extended shooting sessions.
• New Shooters and Training Programs: The .22 LR is widely recommended for introducing new shooters to firearms due to its minimal recoil and report. The Federal American Eagle's reliability and consistency make it an excellent choice for teaching fundamental marksmanship skills, sight picture, and trigger control.
• Small Game Hunters: For those who pursue small game like squirrels, rabbits, or even certain varmints, the 38-grain CPHP offers an ethical and effective solution. Its terminal performance is optimized for quick, humane takedowns. What's the best .22 LR for squirrel hunting? Many experienced hunters would list the Federal American Eagle CPHP among their top recommendations.
• Firearm Owners Practicing with .22 LR Conversion Kits: Many centerfire pistols and rifles have .22 LR conversion kits. Using AE22 in these kits allows for cost-effective training that closely mimics the feel of your primary firearm, improving muscle memory and proficiency without the higher cost of centerfire ammunition.
• Competitive Rimfire Shooters (Practice): While not a match-grade competition round, the AE22 serves as an excellent practice ammunition for competitive shooters. Its consistency allows for high-volume training to hone skills before transitioning to specialized match ammunition.

Optimizing Your .22 LR Experience with Federal American Eagle

To get the most out of your Federal American Eagle 22 LR ammunition, consider these practical tips:

• Firearm Compatibility: Ensure your firearm is chambered for .22 LR. While AE22 performs reliably in most firearms, some firearms can be particular about ammunition. Always test a small quantity first if unsure.
• Cleaning Regimen: Even with copper-plated bullets, regular cleaning of your .22 LR firearm will maintain accuracy and reliability over time. The AE22's copper plating helps reduce lead buildup, making cleaning less arduous.
• Ammunition Storage: Store your ammunition in a cool, dry place to preserve its integrity and performance. The 40-round boxes are convenient for range trips, and the 100-box cases are ideal for bulk storage, ensuring you always have ammunition on hand for training or hunting seasons.

The Federal American Eagle line represents a commitment to quality and accessibility. With the AE22, Federal continues its legacy of producing reliable ammunition that shooters trust. This particular load offers an unparalleled balance of attributes, making it a staple for anyone who enjoys shooting rimfire firearms. Whether you're breaking in a new rifle, honing your skills for an upcoming competition, or filling your freezer with small game, the performance of AE22 ensures a satisfying and effective outing.

Every box of Federal AE22 American Eagle 22 LR 38 gr Copper Plated Hollow Point embodies the dedication to precision and consistency that Federal is known for. From its reliable priming to its effective bullet design, this ammunition is engineered to deliver results. It's the go-to choice for those seeking a dependable, affordable, and high-performing rimfire round. For the best selection and availability, look for Federal American Eagle products, including the AE22 (UPC 029465016845), at DEGuns.

Choosing Federal American Eagle means choosing a brand that understands the needs of shooters. It means choosing an ammunition that stands up to the demands of various shooting disciplines. It's a testament to the fact that high quality and affordability can, and do, coexist. Secure your supply of this exceptional rimfire ammunition and experience the difference that Federal quality makes.

Federal American Eagle 22 LR Product Specifications

Attribute	Detail
Brand	Federal
Model	American Eagle
Caliber	22 LR
Bullet Type	Copper Plated Hollow Point (CPHP)
Bullet Weight	38 gr
Muzzle Velocity	1260 fps
Muzzle Energy	134 ft lbs
Rounds Per Box	40
Casing Material	Brass
Application	Target Shooting, Small Game, Plinking
Boxes Per Case	100
UPC	029465016845
MPN	AE22
SKU	67020