[TTLongRifle]

I've used many inexpensive and expensive 22 long rifles. On the inexpensive end my favorite is the Marlin 880 which I paid $194 for in 1998. It's no longer made but we bought the version that seems the same, except this one has tap holes and does not have a checkered stock, for $160 at Bass Pro Shops this weekend. It's the Marlin 925. I have not shot it yet but the Marlin 880 with Eley Target Ammo in it shoots a group the size of a quarter. Federal ammo, forget which type, works OK too but the group is a bit larger. I've used the Ruger 10-22 and in the low end configuration do not like it. The stock is too small and feels like a toy to me. I have used the high end, as in $1600, tricked out 10-22s and they are very nice but don't own one - too expensive for me. My experience is that the ammo is way more important than the rifle so stay away from Thunderbolt and most of the Remington rounds at least with the Marlin 880. I have scopes on both of them but used to shoot well with the iron sights when I was younger. There is a low end, like $40, Simmons scope on the Marlin 880 and an older Tasco (made in Japan - shows the age) on the Marlin 925 that someone gave me for fixing their computer - didn't ask for anything but it's nice and I can't wait to try it. I've heard the rifle made in Brazil is pretty good but don't remember the brand name. I've held one that was listed in the $300s and it was very nicely made.