[ozo]

If you want a $200 rifle......
If you want to put $$$$$ into it.....
If you want to put $$$$$ and time into it.....

The BEST .22lr rifle is what you want it to be.

For me.....out of the box....
a Marlin 39D lever action.....duh, I know,
not a semi-auto.[and out of production]
I have to recommend a Ruger 10/22
because sooooooo many great aftermarket
parts are available......hands down.
Now, on to......what's the best carry gun ?
Bet that question ain't never came up !