What caliber is the “small thing”: description, characteristics, range, reviews

Melkashka is a colloquial name for a small-caliber gun for hunting, which has been used by hunters for decades. This is a very worthy option for many hunters due to its high destructive power, quiet sound from the shot, and mild recoil. But there are also different types of small fish, and in order to make the right choice, you first need to decide on the purpose of your hunt. Small-caliber weapons are very demanding on the type and size of game, and now we’ll tell you why.

The overwhelming majority of people have a strong opinion that small guns are a sporting weapon that is used for training or competitive shooting. This statement is only partially true. The fact is that any rifle with a .22LR caliber is considered small. The Tula Arms Plant and IZHMEH have produced a lot of models of guns that require just such ammunition.

Hunting carbine Escort 22LR (with wooden butt) Hatsan 29,915 for 1 piece. Rifled weapon MP-161K, 22LR, cal. 5.6 mm Baikal 29,890 for 1 piece. Rifled weapon MP-161K-02, 22LR, cal. 5.6 mm Baikal 32,890 for 1 piece. Carbine VPO 131 without optics (420) HAMMER (Vyatskie Polyany) 32,900 for 1 piece. Rifle weapon 457 SYNTHETIC .22LR CZ 48,600 for 1 piece. Rifle weapon 455 STAINLESS cal. 22 LR CZ 44,000 for 1 piece. Rifle weapon 512 kal.22LR self-loading hunting carbine CZ 64,920 for 1 piece. Rifle weapon 457 JAGUAR XII .22LR [STILL] CZ 67,290 for 1 piece. Rifle weapon 457 RIMFIRE RIFLE cal. 22 LR CZ 51 100 for 1 piece.

Choose a small caliber 22LR

Caliber

The caliber designation is represented by the letters LR, which means Long Rifle - long barrel translated from English. The cartridge case without a bullet is 15.1 in length. And the cartridge with a steel tip is 24.77. It turns out that such a cartridge is something between a pneumatic bullet and a hunting cartridge. A small-caliber cartridge is often used - a 410 cartridge case with small shot. It is worth noting that it is possible to demonstrate high combat performance using .22LR cartridges. due to the fact that the barrel of these rifles is made of very high quality and has an impressive elongation. A standard small rifle has a sliding bolt that securely locks the chamber. And on the receiver there is usually an optical sight attached - for hunting, or a diopter - for competitions.

What kind of production is it suitable for?

The list of birds and animals that can be killed with a small-caliber rifle is quite extensive. These are duck, black grouse, hare, squirrel, sable, beaver, marmot and many others. But here it is very important to make an accurate shot. Shooting at a moving target is almost always useless - only a sniper can cope with such a task. And the bullet should immediately kill the prey. With a normal wound, she will be able to run or fly long enough to get lost and die in vain. Therefore, it is advisable to shoot only at a stationary target, preferably with an optical sight, in order to be able to choose the place where the bullet will hit - the heart, lungs.

Ammunition for hunting

Don’t rush to go hunting with small guns; study the features of the cartridges of the caliber you plan to hunt with. You will have a better understanding of the penetrating power of the .22LR bullet. caliber.

Penetration ability

The 5.6 bullet diameter has a fairly low stopping power. If you shoot an adult wolf, this will most likely only provoke and anger the animal, which will increase its efforts to attack you. At the same time, firing a charge into the vital organs of a partridge or hare practically guarantees you prey.

What kind of rifle is this

First of all, let’s figure out what a small thing is. This is what we call small-caliber rifled smooth-bore rifles in our country, most often using a .22LR caliber cartridge.

They are produced in our country in a fairly large assortment. There are models of different sizes and weights. Some can only hold one round at a time, while others are magazine-fed, allowing you to fire a series of 8-10 shots without reloading.

The weapon is even more popular abroad due to its light weight and almost imperceptible recoil - this is worth talking about in more detail.

Availability

You can purchase cartridges of this caliber in almost any gun store, and at a very affordable price. Thanks to this circumstance, it is possible to zero the rifle with the same ammunition that will be used during the hunt. It is also possible to use a .22WMR cartridge. However, it is rarely found in stores, and is only suitable for civilian shooting; such ammunition is practically useless in hunting.

Why is MP-161 interesting?

A much more interesting option is the MP-161 carbine, also chambered for the .22LR cartridge. The short barrel significantly reduced the firing range, but in terms of other characteristics, the small 5.6 caliber turned out to be very successful.

The magazine allows you to load up to 9 rounds at once, which means you don’t have to waste extra time reloading. The design of the rifle is excellent - ergonomic, even futuristic.

The length of the stock is easily adjustable, as is the height of the rest, which makes it possible to adjust the weapon to a specific shooter, increasing the level of comfort.

There is a place for mounting an optical sight.

It’s nice that the carbine weighs only 2.6 kilograms, which is very important for owners.

So this development can be called very successful - you definitely won’t regret such an acquisition.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other weapon, a small-caliber rifle has its advantages and disadvantages. For some, the shortcomings may be insignificant, for example, an experienced hunter who knows the anatomy and vulnerable spots of animals, knows how to use optics, will not notice them. But it will be more difficult for beginners to get used to such weapons and sighting devices. It happens that a newcomer shoots at a protected place, the wounded animal runs away and dies.]

Advantages

:

• excellent range and accuracy of fire;
• light weight of the rifle;
• there are opportunities to modernize weapons;
• availability of ammunition;
• relatively quiet battle.

Flaws

:

• low penetration ability;
• the need to know the anatomy of game;

shooting is carried out at a great distance.

Who can you hunt with a small-caliber rifle?

It is very important to know what kind of game you can hunt with a small-caliber rifle, otherwise you risk falling into the ranks of those who are contemptuously called poachers. There are animals for which hunting with small fish is prohibited, but first things first.

What is it for?

To understand whether it is possible to use small-caliber weapons for hunting, you should understand what they are, as well as for what purposes they are used. Most people first heard the term “small thing” back in school during shooting or life safety lessons. Secondary school teachers insist that this type of weapon is considered a sport weapon and is used for training and competitive shooting.

Indeed, the first small models released in the Soviet Union were intended only for sports and training. However, do not forget that any rifle using .22LR cartridges is considered a small-caliber weapon. IZHMEKH and the Tula Arms Plant were able to produce many models that use such ammunition for hunting.

It is precisely because of the association with sporting rifles from the Soviet era that many people still believe that such weapons are intended for training and competition. When people hear the name .22LR caliber, they immediately picture a small casing with a rubber bullet in it. However, most cartridges have lead, steel, or burst tips. So hunting with small fish is quite possible.

Bird

A small-caliber rifle has a combat range of 100 meters or more, provided that an optical sight is used. This makes it suitable for hunting medium-sized game birds. What is another advantage of the small ones - even if the hunter does not hit the target on the first try, the slight noise of the shot may not disturb the flock. Small fish are suitable for hunting the following species:

• quail;
• snipe;
• hazel grouse;
• pheasants;
• black grouse;
• capercaillie

But for duck or goose hunting, it is better to take a larger caliber, since the stopping power of a small-caliber charge is not enough to kill these birds with one shot. And it is highly undesirable to leave wounded animals. The larger the prey, the less likely it is that the hunter will be able to kill it with one shot. When hunting capercaillie or black grouse, you need to aim well and hit the vital parts - the crop, head or keel. Use decoys - they imitate the sounds of females during the mating season and are sure to attract several males.

Furry animal

The small fish is also suitable for hunting small fur-bearing animals. Actually, this rifle is the most common weapon for fur harvesting due to the fact that it damages the skin of the prey least of all, and its destructive power is enough to shoot the animal, hitting it in a vulnerable spot. These are the chest, neck and head. Hunting with a small-caliber rifle for the following fur-bearing animals is allowed:

• proteins;
• gophers;
• jerboas;
• hares.

You can try to kill a fox or a badger, but if you are not sure that you will kill the prey with the first shot, you should not do this so as not to leave a wounded animal. Most often, in such a hunt, the stealth method is used, when the prey is approached carefully, from the leeward side. The optimal shooting distance is 82 - 100 meters offhand and 110 - 130 meters using a bipod from a prone position. The magnification of the optical sight is of great importance. At such distances it should be set to no more than six, but not less than three.

Another popular method of hunting is from ambush. You can study habitats, set up camera traps or study hare trails. If the hunting place is a field, then a shelter or dugout is usually used, but if you hunt in the forest, then the best option would be a storage shed in a tree. Having chosen a good position and possessing a well-aimed weapon, even an inexperienced hunter will not leave the forest without prey.

Best models

Choosing a small-caliber rifle for hunting is not as simple a task as it might seem at first glance. Considering that PJSC Tula Armory at one time produced quite a lot of small items intended for sports, the likelihood of making a mistake with the choice is high. We recommend that novice hunters pay attention to the following models:

1. CZ-452 (“Chezet”). This Czech-made model has one of the best price-quality ratios and is suitable for both beginners and professionals. The small fish is presented in several modifications and configurations - almost every hunter will be able to choose what suits him. For example, you can purchase a model with already installed optics or a shortened stock.
2. TOZ-8 (“Tozovka”). Good for those who appreciate classics and love history. The rifle was developed back in 1932, but is still used to train young people in DOSAAF clubs. Also, many hunters have found use for it in their hunting, using cartridges with a steel bullet instead of a rubber one. During the Great Patriotic War, Tozovka was even used by Soviet partisans to shoot enemy sentries.
3. Carbine "Sable". One of the most famous “Melkashki” from the Izhevsk plant, which is perfect for catching small animals or game birds. This semi-automatic rifle is equipped with a dovetail sight, so it can be used to mount almost any existing optical or red dot sight. And the thread on the muzzle is perfect for installing a sound moderator (something like a muffler).

Now, most likely, you are thinking about how much small things cost. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to answer this question in general terms, because now you can only purchase a model from the USSR era second-hand, and the price tag for modern foreign small cars ranges from 30 to 100 thousand rubles. If we are talking about buying a used model, much will also depend on its condition. However, we would recommend focusing on a price tag of 10 to 15 thousand rubles.

Medium and large animals

Desperate hunters can try hunting beaver or roe deer with small fish, but this is a very risky undertaking. If a wounded roe deer tries to run away from you, and succeeds perfectly, then a beaver or wolf will most likely attack the offender. And a wounded animal is very aggressive. Therefore, it is better not to take risks and use a more suitable caliber so as not to leave a wounded animal and not be left without trophies.

Some “armchair” hunters claim that you can even go after a bear with small guns, you just need to accurately shoot him in the eye. Believe me, the first time you see a bear outside of the zoo, you won’t be in the mood for such precise aiming. Now imagine - they fired and missed. The bullet simply ricocheted off the animal's skull, leaving a dent and causing pain. The bear will immediately rush to find out who is causing the discomfort. And he will find out very quickly. We will not continue the story further, because it has a sad ending. And we warn readers - small things are not enough to kill. It is even impossible to seriously injure a large animal. Don't take unnecessary risks.

Many people believe that when choosing a victim among non-aggressive animals, they will be safe, especially when shooting from a storage shed. Let's say. You managed to seriously injure a roe deer. But she, even wounded, will be able to go far, and without a dog you shouldn’t even try to track her down. And in this case, a careless hunter can be equated to a poacher. When shooting at an animal, you need to be ready to finish it off. Wounded animals cannot be left undetected.

However, as we know, there are exceptions to almost any rule. For example, now many foreign manufacturers make rifles that have a more powerful fire and a high muzzle velocity. If such a weapon is loaded with expansion, the affected area increases. This will increase your chances of catching a medium-sized animal - badger, beaver, fox. Large game like wild boar or elk should not be attempted even with more advanced small animals. Rifled weapons are traditionally considered the most suitable for animal hunting. However, remember that it shows excellent results when hunting ungulates, when the shot must be made from a long distance. As for the bear, the momentum, the stopping power of the projectile, is more important here. Therefore, when choosing a rifled carbine as a weapon, choose a larger caliber - 7.62 mm, or even better - 9.3 mm. Despite all the advantages of rifled weapons, emergency situations such as a cartridge sticking, the bolt jamming, etc. cannot be ruled out.

Main advantages

One of the main advantages that the small thing can boast of is noiselessness. Of course, a shot cannot be called completely silent. But if you compare it with shooting even from a 410 caliber gun or any rifle, then compared to them, a small-caliber rifle really seems completely silent. This is an important factor for any user. The low noise level allows the hunter not to scare off the prey in order to make a second shot if the first one was unsuccessful. A mentor teaching young people how to shoot will not have to look for headphones so that students are not afraid of being shot. Finally, for the military, before the advent of silent machine guns and rifles such as “Val” and VSS, this allowed them to destroy sentries without making too much noise.

An advantage is the extremely low recoil. However, this is not surprising: knowing what caliber the small gun is, it is difficult to assume that the recoil will be strong. This is also very important for different users. Especially for beginners. They often do not know how to shoot and make serious mistakes. A powerful blow from recoil may well discourage you from continuing to shoot. And it will be easier for the hunter to make a second shot - at the same target or at a different one, if the first bullet landed well.

It’s nice that the small gun’s combat range is significantly greater than that of any smooth-bore weapon. A good shooter will confidently place a bullet at 150-200 meters - for 12 gauge this distance is prohibitive. With an optical sight, hitting a target at a long distance becomes even easier.

The small thing weighs very little, which allows even a teenager to walk with it through the forest for a long time without feeling tired.

Finally, the cost of a cartridge ranges from 8 to 20 rubles - several times cheaper than for smooth-bore weapons. And this is a very important factor for our time.

How to buy small items

Small bore rifles are classified as rifled weapons. Therefore, you can obtain the right to obtain a license to purchase it only after five years of owning a smoothbore. From 2022, new rules come into force, according to which a hunter first has the right to purchase a double-barreled shotgun, after two years of ownership he has the right to purchase a smooth-bore semi-automatic, and after five years of owning a semi-automatic he can buy a rifled one. Therefore, if anyone has plans to purchase a weapon, they should hurry up.

But remember that illegal purchase of small change from hand is punished very strictly. Yes, this is not an SVD, but it refers to rifled weapons, so the sanctions for illegal trafficking are very strict. However, there is also something positive - the Union of Hunters is trying to promote a law prohibiting the classification of small guns as rifled weapons and allowing its acquisition with the receipt of ordinary brilliant green.

Existing disadvantages

Alas, any weapon that has advantages is not without its disadvantages. Well, the main drawback of the small thing is its destructive power. More precisely, its almost complete absence.

However, one cannot expect anything else. A small caliber, a tiny amount of gunpowder, a small bullet weight - all this leads to the fact that it becomes simply impossible to hit large prey. Even a person who is significantly inferior to a bear, wild boar or wolf, after a mortal wound, can remain mobile for a long time and pose a danger to the shooter.

However, this is where the shortcomings end.

How to choose small things from hand

First, it is important to determine the condition of the muzzle and chamber. The condition of the trigger is also important. If you are a novice hunter and have little knowledge of weapons, be sure to take an experienced hunter with you when you choose a used weapon. There are no special pitfalls when choosing a weapon in a store. In addition to small rifles, you can also find a 410 caliber smoothbore rifle on the market. Such a weapon is appropriate when hunting small birds - hazel grouse, quail and the like.

In addition to hunting, the 410 caliber is also used in sports shooting. Such weapons are lightweight and have excellent accuracy, which is greatly appreciated by athletes. Therefore, when choosing a small caliber weapon, pay attention to the 410 smooth. After all, it is very little inferior to a rifled one, but you can purchase it immediately upon receipt of a green license.

Let the hunt be a pleasure for you, without fluff or feather!

Recommendations for selection

Determining the condition of a used gun can be challenging, especially for a new hunter. That's why we also decided to share some recommendations on what to look for when purchasing. Here is a list of the main points:

1. Condition of the muzzle and chamber. Despite the fact that the life of a used weapon can be more than 50 years, there should be no visible defects in these places, since this only happens when using cartridges with an increased amount of gunpowder. Various irregularities, depressions and burrs will not only negatively affect the accuracy of the battle, but will also serve as indicators indicating that the small fish may have other undetected problems.
2. Condition of the trigger mechanism. At the time when the TOZ-8 and Sobol models were produced, IZHMEKH and the Tula plant did not yet have the same technology for creating triggers as they do now. Because of this, a used model may experience some problems associated with its operation: springs fly out of place, the firing pin does not strike the primer with sufficient force, and so on. Such nuances can only be determined if the owner agrees to completely disassemble the rifle before your eyes.
3. Equipment. Many small-bore rifles were supplied to the market in various configurations. Some models had an optical sight, others had a rubber butt plate on the back of the butt, and others included an advanced spare parts kit intended for repair and cleaning. So before inspecting the weapon, study this issue in more detail using information from the forums. If something is not in place, this will be an excellent reason to reduce the price.

Small “Chezet” for lovers of imported upgrades
Well, don’t forget about your own preferences related to the area of ​​future use of the rifle. If you need a weapon that can be equipped with a silencer, take the Sobol, but the Cheset is suitable for those who plan to install an imported upgrade. The types of small-caliber weapons on the market can be very different. For example, for those who like both smooth-bore and rifled small-caliber weapons, there is the IZH-56 “Belka” double-barreled shotgun.

Sports and hunting ammunition

These small bore cartridges have similar characteristics to those used for sporting events. But the former are inferior in quality, since manufacturers reduce the price of these products in order to increase demand. For those shooters who are just learning to shoot from rifled firearms, it is important that the ammunition is of very high quality, but the main condition is that it is cheap. To learn how to shoot most accurately, as well as quickly aim, you should hone your own skills and abilities over the course of several months. As a rule, 2 types of bullets are made for hunters: with a hole located in the head, as well as all-metal bullets.

Characteristics of cartridges

1. The caliber of the .22 LR cartridge is 5.66 mm.
2. The mass of the bullet can be from 1.9 to 2.6 g.
3. The maximum weight of gunpowder reaches 0.34 g.
4. The initial speed of the ammunition is from 325 to 345 meters per second.
5. When the bullet is at 50 m from the muzzle of the weapon, its speed is 295 m/s.
6. As for the initial energy of the ammunition, it is equal to 135 J.
7. After a bullet flies 50 m, the energy is 110 J.
8. The length of the cartridge reaches 2.5 cm. The length of the sleeve is 1.5 cm. In the upper part the diameter is 5.75 mm, and in the lower part it is 7.1 mm.