Mastering Rimfire Precision: The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter Semi-Auto .22 LR Rifle

Are you a dedicated target shooter seeking consistent accuracy? Perhaps a small game hunter looking for a reliable, precise tool in the field? Or maybe you are introducing a new shooter to the sport and need a forgiving, yet capable, training rifle? The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter Semi-Auto .22 LR is engineered to meet these demands and more, offering a superb blend of performance, reliability, and value. This full-size, right-hand semi-automatic rifle, identified by its 47200 SKU and UPC 062654472008, stands out as a top-tier choice for discerning rimfire enthusiasts.

For anyone asking, "What is the best .22LR rifle for accuracy and reliability?" or "Which semi-auto .22LR offers advanced features without breaking the bank?", the A22 Target Sporter frequently emerges as a compelling answer. Savage Arms has a long-standing reputation for innovation, and the A22 series continues this legacy by bringing high-performance features traditionally found in more expensive firearms to the accessible rimfire market.

Why the .22 Long Rifle Caliber Remains a Favorite

The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) cartridge is a cornerstone of the shooting world, celebrated for its versatility, affordability, and minimal recoil. For new shooters, it provides an ideal platform to learn fundamental marksmanship without the intimidation of louder, higher-recoil calibers. Experienced shooters appreciate its cost-effectiveness for high-volume practice, making it perfect for honing skills or enjoying a casual plinking session. Furthermore, its inherent accuracy makes it a superb choice for target shooting competitions and effective for dispatching small game.

The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter capitalizes on these benefits, providing a rifle specifically designed to maximize the potential of the .22 LR cartridge. It’s built for those who demand more than just a basic plinker, aiming for a rifle that delivers consistent performance, shot after shot, whether at the range or in the field.

Unpacking the A22 Target Sporter's Precision Engineering

At the heart of any accurate rifle lies its barrel and trigger system. The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter distinguishes itself with components designed for superior precision.

The 22-Inch Button-Rifled Barrel: Foundation of Accuracy

The rifle features a robust 22-inch button-rifled steel barrel, finished in a durable blued coating. Why is a button-rifled barrel significant for accuracy?

• Precision Grooves: Button rifling creates consistent, uniform grooves within the barrel bore. This ensures the bullet engages the rifling correctly, imparting a stable spin for optimal projectile flight and tighter groups.
• Optimal Length: The 22-inch length strikes an excellent balance. It’s long enough to allow the .22 LR cartridge to achieve its maximum velocity potential, contributing to flatter trajectories and increased effective range, yet short enough to maintain good maneuverability, especially in field conditions or when moving positions at the range.
• Blued Finish: Beyond its classic aesthetic, the blued finish provides a protective layer, guarding against corrosion and wear, ensuring the barrel maintains its integrity and accuracy over years of use.

The User-Adjustable AccuTrigger: Your Path to Perfect Pulls

Perhaps one of Savage Arms' most celebrated innovations, the user-adjustable AccuTrigger, is a standout feature on the A22 Target Sporter. For shooters asking, "How can I improve my rifle's accuracy without modifying it extensively?", the AccuTrigger offers a direct solution.

• Crisp, Light Pull: The AccuTrigger allows shooters to customize the trigger pull weight to their preference, from a crisp, light pull for precision shooting to a slightly heavier pull for hunting or general use. This adaptability significantly reduces the chance of "trigger pull" errors, where the shooter inadvertently pulls the shot off target due to a heavy or gritty trigger.
• Enhanced Safety: A unique safety blade within the trigger shoe prevents accidental discharge unless the blade is intentionally depressed along with the main trigger. This innovative design provides an extra layer of safety, giving shooters peace of mind.
• Improved Consistency: A consistent trigger pull is paramount for repeatable accuracy. The AccuTrigger delivers this consistency, allowing shooters to focus on their sight picture and breath control, knowing the trigger will break cleanly every time.

Optics Ready: Drilled & Tapped Receiver

The A22 Target Sporter comes with its receiver drilled and tapped, signaling its readiness for optics. This is a crucial detail for anyone looking to maximize the rifle's precision.

• Seamless Scope Mounting: The pre-tapped holes allow for easy and secure mounting of scope bases and rings, accommodating a wide array of optical sights. This is ideal for target shooters who rely on magnified optics for precise shot placement or hunters needing clearer sight pictures in varying light conditions.
• No Iron Sight Interference: By foregoing traditional iron sights, the rifle provides a clean slate for optics, ensuring no visual obstruction and allowing for the lowest possible scope mounting, which can improve cheek weld and sight alignment.

Reliable Semi-Automatic Performance: The A-Series Advantage

The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter is a semi-automatic rifle, meaning it loads a fresh round into the chamber automatically after each shot, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. This capability is powered by an optimized action, building on Savage’s A-Series innovation.

The Delayed Blowback Action: Smooth and Consistent Cycling

While the broader A-Series platform was developed for reliable operation with magnum rimfire cartridges, the A22 .22 LR model benefits from the same robust design principles. Its delayed blowback action provides notably safe and reliable operation with standard .22 LR loads.

• Consistent Cycling: This action ensures dependable feeding and extraction, minimizing malfunctions and keeping your focus on shooting. It’s particularly important for high-volume shooting sessions, where consistent performance is key.
• Durability and Longevity: The inclusion of a hard chrome bolt and a case-hardened receiver further enhances the rifle's durability and smooth operation. The hard chrome bolt resists wear and corrosion, while the case-hardened receiver provides exceptional structural integrity, contributing to the rifle's long lifespan and consistent performance.

The Rotary Magazine: Efficient and Flush Fit

The A22 Target Sporter utilizes a 10-round rotary magazine.

• High Capacity for Extended Shooting: With a 10+1 capacity (10 rounds in the magazine plus one in the chamber), shooters can enjoy extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads, whether at the range or during a small game hunt.
• Flush Fit Design: The rotary design allows the magazine to sit flush with the rifle's stock, preventing snags and maintaining the rifle's sleek profile. This design is preferred by many for its aesthetics and practical advantages in the field.

Ergonomics and Durability: Designed for the Shooter

Beyond its internal mechanisms, the A22 Target Sporter is built with the shooter's comfort and the rifle's longevity in mind.

• Matte Black Synthetic Stock: The full-size, right-hand synthetic stock is finished in a non-reflective matte black. Synthetic stocks are highly favored for their resilience:
  • Weather Resistance: Unlike wood, synthetic materials are impervious to changes in humidity and temperature, preventing warping, cracking, or swelling. This makes the A22 Target Sporter a reliable companion in various weather conditions.
  • Lightweight Durability: The stock contributes to the rifle's overall light weight of 5.60 lbs, making it easy to carry for extended periods in the field or during long sessions at the shooting range. Its robustness ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use.
  • Consistent Handling: The synthetic material provides a consistent grip and feel, enhancing shooting comfort and control.
• Overall Dimensions: With an overall length (OAL) of 41 inches and a length of pull (LOP) of 13.50 inches, the A22 Target Sporter is designed as a full-size rifle suitable for most adult shooters. This provides a stable and comfortable shooting platform.
• Crossbolt Safety: An intuitive crossbolt safety mechanism is strategically placed for easy and secure operation, ensuring safe handling before and after firing.

Versatility in Application: More Than Just a Plinker

The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter isn't just a single-purpose firearm; its design and features make it remarkably versatile for several applications:

• Precision Target Shooting: The combination of the AccuTrigger, button-rifled barrel, and optics-ready receiver makes it an excellent choice for competitive or recreational target shooting. Shooters can consistently achieve tight groups, challenging their skills and improving their scores.
• Recreational Plinking: For pure fun at the range, its semi-automatic action and 10-round magazine provide an enjoyable, high-volume shooting experience with affordable .22 LR ammunition.
• Small Game Hunting: Its inherent accuracy and reliable semi-automatic action make it an effective tool for ethical small game hunting, such as squirrels, rabbits, or varmints. The light weight ensures comfortable carry during long treks.
• Youth and Beginner Training: The low recoil of the .22 LR cartridge combined with the rifle's comfortable ergonomics and adjustable trigger makes it an ideal firearm for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals of shooting safely and effectively. Its robust build ensures it will withstand the learning curve.

Maintaining Your Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter

To ensure your Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter continues to perform at its peak, regular maintenance is essential.

• Barrel Cleaning: Due to the nature of .22 LR ammunition, which often uses lead bullets and produces more residue, frequent barrel cleaning is recommended to maintain accuracy.
• Action Cleaning: Keep the delayed blowback action, hard chrome bolt, and receiver clean and lightly lubricated to ensure smooth, reliable cycling.
• Magazine Care: Periodically clean your rotary magazines to prevent feeding issues caused by debris or carbon buildup.

Accessorizing Your A22 Target Sporter

The drilled and tapped receiver opens up a world of customization.

• Optics: Consider a high-quality rimfire scope for target shooting, or a red dot sight for quick target acquisition.
• Bipods: For stable shooting from a bench or prone position, a bipod can be easily attached to the stock.
• Slings: A comfortable sling is invaluable for carrying the rifle in the field.

The Savage Arms Legacy: A Commitment to Innovation

Savage Arms has been a leader in firearm manufacturing since 1894, consistently pushing the boundaries of design and performance. Their commitment to innovation is evident in features like the AccuTrigger and the robust A-Series platform. When you choose a Savage Arms rifle, you're investing in a product backed by over a century of engineering excellence and a reputation for producing accurate, reliable firearms that deliver exceptional value. The A22 Target Sporter is a testament to this enduring legacy, offering features and performance typically found in higher-priced rifles, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.

For those searching for a .22 LR semi-automatic rifle that balances precision, reliability, and an outstanding shooting experience, the Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter is an undisputed contender. Its thoughtful design, coupled with Savage's proven technology, makes it a rifle that will provide years of enjoyment and dependable performance.

Where to Acquire Your Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter

The Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter Semi-Auto .22 LR rifle, SKU 47200, is available through reputable firearms retailers like DEGuns. Investing in a high-quality rimfire rifle like the A22 Target Sporter ensures you have a capable tool for all your shooting endeavors, from casual plinking to serious target practice and small game hunting.

Savage Arms A22 Target Sporter .22 LR Specifications
Feature	Detail
Brand	Savage Arms
Model	A22 Target Sporter
Caliber	.22 LR
Action	Semi-Automatic (Delayed Blowback)
Capacity	10+1 (Rotary Magazine)
Barrel Length	22 inches
Barrel Finish	Blued
Barrel Description	Button Rifled Steel
Twist Rate	1:16"
Receiver Material	Steel
Receiver Finish	Blued
Stock Material	Synthetic
Stock Finish	Matte Black
Stock Finish Group	Brown (Manufacturer's classification for synthetic)
Hand	Right Hand
Size	Full Size
Overall Length (OAL)	41 inches
Length of Pull (LOP)	13.50 inches
Weight	5.60 lbs
Sights	Drilled & Tapped (Optics Ready)
Safety	Crossbolt
Trigger	AccuTrigger (User-Adjustable)
Application	Field, Target, Plinking, Training
SKU	47200
MPN	47200
UPC	062654472008