If you're a fan of .22LR firearms like many shooters, you might be wondering what other types of competitions allow you to use your favorite pistols or rifles beyond Steel Challenge.

Luckily, the shooting world offers a range of exciting disciplines where your .22LR firearms can shine. Let’s take a closer look at some of the popular competitions and a few lesser-known ones that may suit your shooting style.

Competitive Shooting Events for .22LR Pistols and Rifles

1. Rimfire Challenge

Rimfire Challenge is often seen as a direct sibling to Steel Challenge, focusing exclusively on .22LR rifles and pistols. The format is similar, with timed stages and static steel targets.

However, one big difference is that Rimfire Challenge stages are custom-built for each match, whereas Steel Challenge uses standardized courses.

However, Derek from Georgia raised an important point about the accessibility of these matches, stating, "I'm in Atlanta, GA, and I can't seem to find any Rimfire Challenge events near me." Indeed, finding local events can be a challenge.

Tom McCoy highlighted another difference, noting, "It seems like an area either has Steel Challenge or Rimfire Challenge but not much overlap."

While it may not be as widespread as Steel Challenge, Rimfire Challenge is still a great way to put your .22LR through its paces.

2. USPSA and .22LR for Youth

Micha from Arizona pointed out, “Most local USPSA matches will allow .22LR for youth. For adults, not so much.”

While USPSA is traditionally a centerfire competition, many local matches allow youth competitors to use .22LR rifles or pistols.

It’s an excellent way to introduce younger shooters to practical shooting in a less intimidating environment.

However, for adult shooters looking to use .22LR in USPSA, options are more limited, as .22LR is generally not allowed for scored matches.

3. Falling Steel

Matt Strahl mentioned Falling Steel as a fun alternative for .22LR shooters.

If you enjoy the dynamic, fast-paced nature of Steel Challenge but want a bit more variety, Falling Steel could be a great fit. In this competition, shooters engage steel targets that fall when hit, making for an engaging and challenging event.

This format is great for anyone looking to improve their speed and accuracy under pressure, and it works well for .22LR due to the lightweight nature of the ammunition.

4. PCSL (Practical Competition Shooting League)

Another exciting option for .22LR enthusiasts is the Practical Competition Shooting League (PCSL). This league mixes various elements of practical shooting disciplines, including rifle, pistol, and shotgun stages, and often allows .22LR firearms.

Brandon Lang mentions PCSL as a good platform for .22LR shooters looking for a competitive edge. PCSL provides a bit of everything for those interested in running their .22LR through different scenarios, from static stages to more complex, dynamic courses.

5. Silhouette Matches

Silhouette shooting offers a totally different challenge for .22LR shooters.

In this competition, you engage metal animal targets at various distances, testing your precision and marksmanship. Silhouette matches are typically slow and methodical, perfect for those who enjoy the challenge of long-range accuracy with a .22LR rifle.

George from SC recommended silhouette matches as a great way to improve accuracy over longer distances​.

6. Outlaw Steel

While Steel Challenge has a strict rule set, some shooters prefer the flexibility of Outlaw Steel.

Jay from Louisiana enjoys both styles but prefers Outlaw for its more relaxed and fun atmosphere. “We have a few Steel Challenge and Outlaw Steel matches monthly in Southern Louisiana. I like the structure of SC, but Outlaw is more fun,” he says.

Outlaw Steel allows match directors to create their own stages, which adds a level of unpredictability and excitement for .22LR shooters.

While Steel Challenge has a strict rule set, some shooters prefer the flexibility of Outlaw Steel.

7. Defensive Pistol Matches

Another unique option for .22LR handguns is participating in defensive pistol matches. While these competitions are typically dominated by larger caliber pistols, .22LR is sometimes allowed for training purposes or in non-scored categories.

For those with a .22LR pistol, defensive pistol matches can be another opportunity, especially for practice or non-scored events. Mick mentioned using his .22LR pistol in such matches, where competitors practice defensive shooting​

Finding Local Matches

One of the biggest challenges .22LR shooters face is finding local matches that cater to this caliber.

As Derek from Georgia mentions, some areas are saturated with Steel Challenge matches but have little or no Rimfire Challenge events.

Depending on where you live, you may need to travel to find the competitions that fit your needs.

Peter from South Carolina points out that the Rimfire World Championship was just held a few hours from Atlanta, showcasing the high level of competition available to .22LR shooters.

If you're struggling to find local matches, checking with ranges in neighboring states or keeping an eye on online forums and Facebook groups can help you discover opportunities to compete.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in speed, precision, or versatility, there are plenty of competitive shooting events where you can use your .22LR pistol or rifle.

From the fast-paced stages of Rimfire Challenge to the methodical precision of silhouette shooting, the world of .22LR competitions is larger than you might think.

While finding matches in your area can sometimes be tricky, staying connected with your local shooting community and exploring different disciplines will open up new opportunities to enjoy your .22LR firearms in competition.