#319 The Best First .22 Rifle: Semi-Auto vs. Bolt-Action episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 23, 2026 · 17 MIN

#319 The Best First .22 Rifle: Semi-Auto vs. Bolt-Action

from The GUNS Magazine Podcast

In this episode of Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle one of the most common questions in the shooting world: What is the best first .22 rifle for a new shooter?  Whether you are buying for a child, a spouse, or yourself, the impulse is often to grab a popular semi-automatic like a Ruger 10/22. However, Roy and Brent argue why that might be a mistake that hinders long-term skill development.  They discuss the philosophy of "Slow down, Speed Racer," explaining how single-shot and bolt-action rifles force new shooters to focus on the essentials like sight picture and trigger squeeze, rather than just turning money into empty brass.  The duo also dives into the practical benefits of bolt-action rifles, including superior out-of-the-box accuracy and safety. Drawing on personal anecdotes ranging from Tai Chi classes to fishing mishaps, they illustrate the psychology of learning a new skill and why better equipment doesn't always equal better performance for a novice.  Tune in for this insightful conversation on building a solid foundation for a lifetime of shooting fun. --- The Guns Podcast is presented by TangoDown. TangoDown® has been a leader in firearms parts and accessories for over two decades. From upgrades for everyday carry firearms to rifle accessories, TangoDown® has something for each firearm enthusiast.  To learn more and shop the diverse product line, visit https://tangodown.com -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week! Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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#319 The Best First .22 Rifle: Semi-Auto vs. Bolt-Action

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How long is this episode of The GUNS Magazine Podcast?

This episode is 17 minutes long.

When was this The GUNS Magazine Podcast episode published?

This episode was published on January 23, 2026.

What is this episode about?

In this episode of Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle one of the most common questions in the shooting world: What is the best first .22 rifle for a new shooter?  Whether you are buying for a child, a spouse, or yourself,...

Is there a transcript available for this episode?

Yes, a full transcript is available for this episode. You can read the complete transcript on the episode page.

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