Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint: Precision and Performance in .22 WMR

Are you searching for a reliable, accurate, and high-performance semi-automatic rimfire rifle specifically designed for varmint hunting, precision target shooting, or general sport shooting? Look no further than the Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint. This exceptional rifle, known by its model number 47222, is engineered to provide shooters with unparalleled consistency and a superior shooting experience, making it a top choice for those who demand precision from their rimfire firearms.

The Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint stands out in the crowded rimfire market by combining the inherent accuracy of Savage’s manufacturing processes with modern features tailored for serious shooters. It’s an ideal solution for anyone grappling with varmint control challenges, seeking to refine their marksmanship on the range, or simply enjoying the rapid-fire capabilities of a semi-automatic rimfire. This rifle truly answers the question: "What is the best semi-automatic .22 WMR rifle for accuracy and performance?"

Understanding the Power of the .22 WMR Caliber

At the heart of the Savage A22 Pro Varmint is its chambering in .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire). This potent rimfire cartridge, often referred to as .22 Magnum, offers significantly enhanced velocity and energy compared to the popular .22 LR. While the .22 LR is excellent for plinking and short-range small game, the .22 WMR extends effective range and delivers more terminal performance, making it a superior choice for pest control and longer-distance rimfire shooting.

Key advantages of the .22 WMR caliber include:

• Increased Velocity: Typically reaching velocities of 1,900 to 2,200 feet per second, much faster than standard .22 LR rounds.
• Greater Energy: Delivers more kinetic energy on target, improving effectiveness on small to medium-sized varmints like prairie dogs, groundhogs, and even coyotes at closer ranges.
• Flatter Trajectory: The higher velocity results in a flatter trajectory, making it easier to estimate holdovers for shots at varying distances.
• Extended Effective Range: While a .22 LR is generally limited to 50-75 yards for reliable varmint control, the .22 WMR can be effective out to 125-150 yards, sometimes even further depending on conditions and specific ammunition.

For varmint hunters, the .22 WMR’s ability to humanely dispatch small predators at greater distances without the significant recoil, noise, or expense of centerfire cartridges is a major benefit. It provides an excellent balance of power, precision, and practical cost for high-volume shooting.

The Legacy of Savage Arms: A Commitment to Accuracy

Savage Arms has long been revered in the shooting community for its unwavering commitment to accuracy and innovation. Since its founding in 1894, Savage has consistently pushed the boundaries of firearm design, producing dependable and precise rifles that cater to hunters, sport shooters, and competitive marksmen alike. The AccuTrigger and the unique thread-in headspace system are prime examples of Savage's dedication to delivering superior performance.

The A22 series itself builds on this rich heritage, offering a modern take on semi-automatic rimfire rifles. The Pro Varmint variant specifically elevates this platform, integrating features typically found on more expensive precision firearms into an accessible rimfire package. This rifle benefits from Savage’s deep understanding of what makes a firearm truly accurate and reliable, earning its place as a trusted name in the industry.

Unpacking the Superior Features of the A22 Pro Varmint

The Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint (model 47222) is meticulously crafted with a suite of features that contribute to its outstanding performance and user experience.

Boyd's Pro Varmint Wood Stock: Stability Meets Ergonomics

One of the most distinguishing features of this rifle is its high-quality Boyd's Pro Varmint stock. Crafted from durable wood with a matte black finish, this stock is not merely aesthetically pleasing; it is functionally designed for stability and enhanced accuracy.

• Rigid Platform: The dense wood construction provides an incredibly stable platform, minimizing flex and vibration, which is crucial for consistent shot placement.
• Ergonomic Design: The Pro Varmint stock features a wide, flat forend that sits securely on sandbags or bipods, providing excellent stability for prone or bench shooting. The pistol grip is designed for a comfortable and natural hand position, promoting better trigger control.
• Durability and Feel: The matte black finish not only looks sleek but also offers protection and a non-glare surface. The natural feel of wood adds to the overall shooting comfort and classic appeal.

This stock is a significant upgrade for shooters looking to maximize the rifle's precision potential, whether on a bench rest or deployed in the field.

Savage AccuTrigger: Precision at Your Fingertips

The adjustable AccuTrigger is a hallmark of modern Savage rifles and is a standout feature on the A22 Pro Varmint. This user-adjustable trigger allows shooters to customize the pull weight without compromising safety.

• Crisp, Clean Break: The AccuTrigger is renowned for its crisp, light pull, eliminating creep and overtravel. This allows for more precise shot placement by reducing the chance of disturbing the rifle during the trigger squeeze.
• User Adjustability: Shooters can easily adjust the trigger pull weight down to a very light setting, catering to individual preferences for target shooting or hunting scenarios where a precise trigger is paramount.
• Enhanced Safety: Despite its light pull capabilities, the AccuTrigger incorporates a unique safety blade system, preventing accidental discharge if the rifle is jarred or dropped. The rifle will only fire when the trigger blade is intentionally depressed.

For any shooter serious about accuracy, the AccuTrigger is a game-changer, providing a significant advantage in achieving tighter groups.

22-Inch Carbon Steel Heavy Barrel: Optimal Ballistics and Heat Management

The A22 Pro Varmint boasts a 22-inch carbon steel barrel with a heavy profile and a black finish. This barrel length and profile are optimized for the .22 WMR cartridge.

• Ballistic Optimization: A 22-inch barrel allows the .22 WMR cartridge to achieve its full ballistic potential, maximizing muzzle velocity and energy transfer. This is essential for maintaining a flat trajectory and effective range.
• Heavy Profile for Accuracy: The heavy barrel profile provides increased rigidity, which reduces barrel whip and improves consistency during rapid firing. Its greater mass also helps dissipate heat more effectively, preventing stringing of shots as the barrel warms up during extended shooting sessions.
• Durable Finish: The black finish on the carbon steel barrel offers protection against corrosion and wear, ensuring the rifle maintains its appearance and performance over time.

With a 1:16" twist rate, this barrel is perfectly matched to stabilize the common bullet weights found in .22 WMR ammunition, ensuring optimal accuracy.

Reliable Straight-Blowback Semi-Automatic Action

The A22 Pro Varmint utilizes a straight-blowback semi-automatic action. This mechanism is known for its simplicity, reliability, and effectiveness in rimfire firearms.

• Consistent Cycling: The straight-blowback design ensures reliable cycling of rounds, providing a smooth and consistent semi-automatic shooting experience.
• Minimal Recoil: For a rimfire cartridge, the .22 WMR produces very manageable recoil, and the semi-automatic action further mitigates felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and extended shooting sessions without fatigue.
• Ease of Maintenance: The straightforward design makes field stripping and cleaning relatively simple, contributing to the rifle's longevity and consistent performance.

Savage's Thread-in Headspace System

Inherited from Savage's renowned centerfire rifles, the thread-in headspace system is a critical component for the A22 Pro Varmint's inherent accuracy. This manufacturing process ensures extremely precise and consistent chamber dimensions, leading to:

• Superior Accuracy: Consistent headspace ensures that each cartridge seats uniformly, promoting optimal bullet alignment and reducing variations in shot performance.
• Reliable Performance: Proper headspace is vital for reliable feeding, extraction, and ignition, contributing to the overall dependability of the rifle.

Lightweight Aluminum Receiver and Detachable Rotary Magazine

The rifle features a lightweight aluminum receiver, balancing durability with a manageable overall weight (7.30 lbs). This design choice contributes to the rifle being comfortable to carry in the field while maintaining robustness. The 10+1 capacity detachable rotary magazine is highly reliable, feeding rounds smoothly and sitting flush with the rifle's stock for a streamlined profile.

Integrated Picatinny Rail for Optics

Recognizing the need for precise aiming, the Savage A22 Pro Varmint comes equipped with an integrated Picatinny rail. This universal mounting platform allows for easy and secure attachment of a wide variety of optics, including rifle scopes, red dot sights, or even night vision devices. For varmint hunting or target shooting at extended rimfire ranges, a high-quality scope is essential to harness the rifle's accuracy potential.

Who Is the Savage A22 Pro Varmint For?

The Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint (model 47222) is an exceptional choice for several types of shooters:

• The Dedicated Varmint Hunter: If you're dealing with pests like prairie dogs, groundhogs, gophers, or even smaller coyotes, this rifle offers the perfect blend of rapid follow-up shots, extended range capabilities of the .22 WMR, and precision necessary for humane and effective pest control. Its consistent accuracy and reliable action mean fewer misses and more successful hunts.
• The Precision Rimfire Shooter: For those who enjoy testing their skills at the range, participating in rimfire competitions, or simply striving for the tightest possible groups, the AccuTrigger and stable Boyd's stock make this rifle a formidable tool. It allows shooters to focus on fundamental marksmanship without battling a poor trigger pull or an an unstable platform.
• The Sport Shooter Looking for a Versatile Rimfire: Whether for plinking steel targets, informal target practice, or just enjoying a day at the range, the semi-automatic action and manageable recoil of the A22 Pro Varmint make it a fun and engaging firearm to shoot. Its robust build ensures it can handle frequent use.
• Shooters Seeking a Reliable and Accessible Magnum Rimfire: If you're considering stepping up from a .22 LR to a more powerful rimfire, or you simply want a dependable semi-automatic .22 WMR, the A22 Pro Varmint offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value.

Optimizing Your Shooting Experience with the A22 Pro Varmint

To truly unlock the full potential of your Savage A22 Pro Varmint, consider these aspects:

• Optics Selection: Given its precision capabilities, pairing the A22 Pro Varmint with a quality rifle scope is highly recommended. For varmint hunting, a scope with adjustable magnification (e.g., 3-9x, 4-12x, or even higher for long range) and a clear, precise reticle will be invaluable. Look for scopes designed for rimfire use or with adjustable parallax to optimize clarity at shorter distances.
• Ammunition Choice: The .22 WMR cartridge offers various bullet weights and designs, from lightweight V-MAX bullets designed for explosive expansion on varmints to heavier hollow points for more penetration. Experiment with different brands and bullet types to find what your specific rifle prefers for optimal accuracy and performance in your intended application.
• Proper Maintenance: Regular cleaning of the barrel, chamber, and action is crucial for maintaining the rifle's accuracy and reliability. Rimfire ammunition can be dirtier than centerfire, so a consistent cleaning regimen will keep your A22 Pro Varmint performing at its best for years to come.
• Shooting Fundamentals: While the rifle offers inherent accuracy, consistent application of shooting fundamentals (stance, grip, sight picture, breath control, trigger squeeze) will always be the ultimate determinant of your precision. The AccuTrigger and stable stock make it easier to practice and master these fundamentals.

Why Choose the Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint?

In summary, the Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint (UPC 011356472229, MPN 47222) is more than just another rimfire rifle; it's a meticulously engineered precision instrument. It combines the potent and versatile .22 WMR cartridge with Savage's legendary AccuTrigger, a robust Boyd's Pro Varmint stock, and a precision-crafted heavy barrel. These features converge to deliver a semi-automatic rifle that offers superior accuracy, unwavering reliability, and an exceptional shooting experience. Whether your goal is effective varmint control, achieving tighter groups on the target range, or simply enjoying the consistent performance of a high-quality rimfire, this rifle is designed to exceed expectations.

For those ready to experience the difference a truly optimized rimfire rifle can make, the Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint is available at trusted retailers like DEGuns. Elevate your shooting game with a firearm built for precision.

Savage Arms A22 Pro Varmint Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Savage Arms
Series	Pro Varmint
Model	A22
Caliber	22 WMR
Capacity	10+1
Stock Material	Wood
Stock Finish	Matte Black
Stock Description	Boyd's Pro Varmint
Action	Semi-Auto (Straight-Blowback)
Hand	Right Hand
Sights	Picatinny Rail
Size	Full Size
Barrel Finish	Black
Barrel Description	Heavy
Barrel Length	22"
Twist Rate	1:16"
Application	Field / Varmint / Target
Receiver Material	Aluminum
Receiver Finish	Black
Safety	Thumb
Trigger	AccuTrigger (Adjustable)
Length of Pull	13.50"
Weight	7.30 lbs
MPN	47222
UPC	011356472229