02/23/2025
This post is to demonstrate the value of quality ammunition. I just completed a precision 22lr rifle (pictured) and wanted to document how the rifle reacts with different ammo at 50 yards.
The 5 shot group in the circle is standard SK Semi-Auto Rifle, it sells for around $9-$10 a box of 50. The lower '1 hole" group is actually 3 shots of Lapua Long Range which is around $18 a box of 50. For those that may not believe there are 3 shots in that hole, take a look at the entry holes into the foam backing the target was attached to.
Other ammo brands and types were tested, but in the interest of keeping this as short as possible... here is an abbreviated rundown:
In general, the more you pay for 22lr ammo, the more likely you will see tighter groups. Even on meticulously built precision rifles. Factory built rifles on the other hand can and most likely will perform different even in the same configuration with the same ammo. So having different ammo on hand will help to find what shoots best in that particular rifle. Shooting suppressed saw the group size increase with Lapua Long Range with the average velocity decreasing around 5 feet per socond. Other ammo varied from no group size change, to very little to no change in velocity.
So why is there such a difference in ammo. The simple explanation is quality of components and construction. Rim thickness, metering of the gun powder, and primer detonation all play major factors in the rate of burn and the pressure of the cartridge. This is important because of something called standard deviation. The closer the muzzle velocity of the bullet is on each shot, the more consistent or repeatable the results will be.
This topic goes much deeper in discussion, and the reasons outlined above are not the only factors to consider when playing the precision game. The primary goal and purpose of a custom gunsmith is to eliminate as mamy variables as possible so we can achieve consistent results. Unfortunately many people don't understand one of the easiest variables they can control is in the ammo, it just comes at a cost. Now if all you do is punch holes in paper or plink on steel targets... go buy the cheap stuff!
