ORIGINAL: Busch7596
Well I already have an old .22 with a bent sight and the action jams alot and I always feel like I have to upgrade calibers. I am mostly just going to be plinkin and short range targets. Probably not hunt with it except the occasional squirrel that looks at me funny.
For the use you cited, go with a 22LR. Recommend take a look at a Ruger 10/22 as the
standard carbines are pretty inexpensive, and can be a very accurate & reliable gun.
There are also several models of Marlins bolt action rifles to consider, and Savage makes a few good ones too - also very inexpensive.
BTW, I have both, the 22LR and a 22mag. My 22LR is a Ruger 10/22, and it makes a great little plinker/target gun, and fun to go squirrel hunting with too. The 22mag is
a Ruger 77/22 target model. It's very accurate, and lots of fun to go after crows wth.