If you’re thinking about getting a single-shot rifle, one of the first questions you might have is: what calibers do these rifles come in? Choosing the right caliber can make a big difference in your shooting experience, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or just collecting.
This guide will help you understand the most common calibers available, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Keep reading to discover which caliber matches your goals and how it impacts performance.
Popular Single-shot Rifle Calibers
Single-shot rifles come in many calibers. Each caliber suits different uses and shooters. Choosing the right caliber depends on what you want to do. Some calibers work best for target practice. Others excel in hunting small or large animals.
Understanding popular calibers helps you pick the best rifle. This section covers common calibers in three groups. Small calibers for practice, medium for hunting, and large for big game.
Small Calibers For Target Practice
Small calibers offer low recoil and low cost. The .22 Long Rifle is the most popular. It is perfect for beginners and target shooting. These calibers allow shooters to practice accuracy without heavy noise. Ammunition is cheap and easy to find. Small calibers also help improve shooting skills safely.
Medium Calibers For Hunting
Medium calibers balance power and control. The .223 Remington and .30-30 Winchester are common examples. They work well for deer and similar-sized animals. These calibers offer enough stopping power without too much recoil. Hunters prefer them for their versatility and reliability. Medium calibers suit both new and experienced hunters.
Large Calibers For Big Game
Large calibers provide maximum power and range. The .45-70 Government and .375 H&H Magnum are popular choices. These calibers handle large animals like elk and bear. They deliver strong impact to ensure a clean shot. Large calibers require good shooting skills due to recoil. They are ideal for serious hunters facing tough conditions.
Historical Calibers Still In Use
Many single-shot rifles today still use historical calibers. These calibers have a long legacy and are popular among collectors and shooters. They offer a unique shooting experience that connects the past with the present.
Historical calibers often come from the era of black powder or early cartridge development. Their designs remain effective and reliable. These calibers give single-shot rifles a classic feel and performance.
Classic Black Powder Calibers
Black powder calibers were common in the 19th century. Examples include .45-70 Government and .50-70 Government. These calibers were used for hunting and military purposes.
They still appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy traditional shooting. The .45-70 offers good power and accuracy with a single shot. Many modern single-shot rifles are chambered for these old calibers.
The appeal lies in their historical value and reliable ballistics. Black powder calibers give shooters a chance to experience old-style firearm use. Reloading for these calibers is also possible with modern powders.
Vintage Rimfire Options
Rimfire calibers have a place in historical single-shot rifles too. The .22 Short and .22 Long Rifle are two classic examples. These calibers date back to the late 1800s.
They remain popular for small game hunting and target shooting. Vintage rimfire rifles offer low recoil and affordable shooting. Their easy availability keeps these calibers in use.
Collectors enjoy owning rifles in these classic rimfire calibers. They represent the early days of rimfire cartridge development. These calibers fit well in single-shot rifles designed for precision and simplicity.
Specialty Calibers For Precision
Specialty calibers in single-shot rifles focus on precision and accuracy. These calibers suit shooters who demand exact performance. They often serve in competition and long-distance shooting. Many offer unique features to improve bullet stability and flight path.
Choosing the right specialty caliber depends on the shooting purpose. Some calibers excel at benchrest shooting, while others perform well at long ranges. Custom and wildcat calibers provide tailored options for specific needs.
Benchrest And Long-range Choices
Benchrest calibers emphasize tight groupings and minimal recoil. Common examples include 6mm PPC and 6.5 Creedmoor. These rounds deliver consistent accuracy on controlled shooting benches. Long-range calibers like .300 Winchester Magnum and .338 Lapua Magnum extend reach beyond 1000 yards. They maintain velocity and resist wind drift well. Shooters use these for precision target shooting and tactical applications.
Wildcat And Custom Calibers
Wildcat calibers arise from modifying standard cartridges. Shooters or gunsmiths change case dimensions to boost performance. Custom calibers offer unique ballistic traits. They can improve velocity, reduce recoil, or enhance accuracy. These calibers often require handloading and expert knowledge. They appeal to shooters who want specialized rifles for niche needs.
Factors Influencing Caliber Selection
Choosing the right caliber for a single-shot rifle depends on several key factors. These factors help match the rifle’s power to the shooter’s needs. Understanding them makes your choice clearer and more effective.
Purpose And Application
The rifle’s use guides caliber choice. Hunting small game needs smaller calibers. Larger game requires bigger, more powerful calibers. Target shooting often favors precision over power. Each purpose asks for a different caliber size.
Availability And Cost
Some calibers are easier to find at stores. Common calibers usually cost less. Rare calibers can be expensive and hard to get. Budget and ammo access affect what caliber you pick. Choosing available ammo keeps shooting affordable and convenient.
Recoil And Shooter Comfort
Heavier calibers produce stronger recoil. Strong recoil can tire or discourage shooters. Lighter calibers offer smoother shooting experience. Comfort influences accuracy and enjoyment. Select a caliber that feels good to shoot.
Comparing Caliber Performance
Choosing the right caliber for a single-shot rifle is important. Different calibers perform differently in accuracy, power, and ammo options. Understanding these differences helps you pick a caliber that suits your needs. Let’s compare how various calibers perform in key areas.
Accuracy And Ballistics
Caliber size affects a rifle’s accuracy and ballistics. Smaller calibers often have less recoil, allowing easier control and better aim. Larger calibers can shoot farther but may have more drop and wind drift. Ballistics vary by bullet shape and speed, affecting how straight and far the bullet flies.
Stopping Power
Stopping power means how well a bullet can stop a target quickly. Bigger calibers usually have higher stopping power. This makes them ideal for hunting larger animals. Smaller calibers may need precise shots to be effective. Consider what you plan to shoot before choosing a caliber.
Ammunition Variety
Ammo choice depends on caliber popularity. Common calibers have more ammo types available. This means easier to find and cheaper bullets. Rare calibers may limit your choices and cost more. Think about ammo availability before settling on a caliber.
Popular Single-shot Rifle Models By Caliber
Single-shot rifles come in many calibers, each suited for different uses. Choosing the right caliber depends on the shooting purpose and personal preference. Popular models often reflect these needs, offering options from small to big bores.
Understanding popular single-shot rifles by caliber helps shooters pick the best fit. Each category has trusted models known for reliability and accuracy. Let’s explore the common calibers and their notable single-shot rifles.
Rifles Chambered In Small Calibers
Small caliber single-shot rifles often use cartridges like .22 LR or .17 HMR. These rifles are ideal for target shooting and small game hunting. The Ruger No. 1 in .22 LR is a popular choice. It offers precision and light recoil. Another favorite is the Thompson/Center Encore, available in .17 HMR. These rifles are lightweight and easy to handle, perfect for beginners.
Medium Caliber Single-shots
Medium calibers include popular rounds like .223 Remington and .30-30 Winchester. These rifles suit medium-sized game and general shooting. The Ruger No. 1 chambered in .30-30 Winchester is well-regarded. It balances power and manageability. The Harrington & Richardson Topper in .223 Remington is another good model. It delivers accuracy for varmint hunting and sport shooting.
Big Bore Single-shot Rifles
Big bore single-shot rifles use powerful cartridges such as .45-70 Government and .375 H&H Magnum. These rifles target large game and dangerous animals. The Ruger No. 1 in .45-70 Government is a classic big bore rifle. It provides strong stopping power with manageable recoil. The Thompson/Center Encore also offers big bore options like .375 H&H Magnum. These rifles combine strength with precision for tough hunts.
Reloading And Ammunition Considerations
Reloading and ammunition choices play a key role in using single-shot rifles. These rifles often support many calibers. Understanding reloading helps shooters save money and improve accuracy.
Ammunition choice affects performance and safety. Using the right ammo ensures the rifle works well. It also helps avoid damage or accidents.
Reloading For Single-shot Rifles
Reloading allows shooters to create their own cartridges. This saves money over buying factory ammo. Single-shot rifles often use common calibers, making reloading easier.
Reloaders can adjust powder amounts and bullet types. This customizes shooting for target practice or hunting. Careful measurement and quality components are crucial for safety.
Single-shot rifles usually have strong actions. They handle a variety of loads well. Beginners should follow reloading guides and start with mild loads.
Choosing The Right Ammo
Selecting the proper ammunition improves shooting results. Match the caliber and load to the rifle’s specifications. Check the rifle manual for recommended ammo types.
Quality factory ammo offers reliability and consistent performance. It is best for those who do not reload. For hunting, choose ammo designed for clean, humane kills.
Consider bullet weight and type for your shooting needs. Lighter bullets fly faster and flatter. Heavier bullets deliver more energy and penetration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Most Common Single-shot Rifle Calibers?
Common calibers include. 22 LR,. 223 Remington,. 30-06 Springfield, and. 45-70 Government. These cover small to large game hunting needs effectively.
Can Single-shot Rifles Use Big Game Calibers?
Yes, many single-shot rifles chamber powerful calibers like. 300 Winchester Magnum and. 450 Marlin for big game hunting.
Are .22 Caliber Single-shot Rifles Popular?
Absolutely,. 22 caliber single-shot rifles are popular for target shooting, small game hunting, and training beginners due to low recoil.
Do Single-shot Rifles Come In Exotic Calibers?
Yes, some single-shot rifles are available in rare calibers like 7mm Remington Magnum, catering to specialized hunting and shooting preferences.
Conclusion
Single-shot rifles come in many calibers to fit different needs. Smaller calibers suit target shooting and small game hunting. Larger calibers offer more power for bigger animals and long-range shots. Choosing the right caliber depends on your purpose and comfort.
Each caliber has its pros and cons. Understanding these helps you pick the best rifle for you. Single-shot rifles remain popular for their simplicity and reliability. Explore different calibers to find what matches your style and goals.
