Match the cartridge to the animal, the distance and the backstop. A cartridge that is too weak wounds, and one that is too strong damages meat or carries too far. Hunting rules also vary by state and species, so check the local regulations before you go.

Squirrels, rabbits and other small game

The .22 LR is the standard for squirrels and rabbits at modest range, and hollow-point loads, at 22lr hollow point ammo, are made to expand on small game.

The .22 Short is a gentler choice at very short range, with lead round-nose loads at 22 short lead round nose ammo.

Varmints: prairie dogs, ground squirrels and crows

The .17 HM2 has an effective range on varmints of roughly 125 to 175 yards, and Hornady's loads are at hornady 17 hm2 ammo. The .17 HMR is faster and reaches a little farther, and its loads are at 17 hmr ammo for sale.

Fox, coyote and larger varmints

The .22 WMR carries more power than the .22 LR, with 30- to 40-grain bullets, and it is a common choice for fox-sized game. Anyone who wants to buy 22 wmr ammo should check that the rifle is marked for it. The .17 WSM has the highest velocity of the group, and its loads are at 17 wsm ammo.

The .21 Sharp is Winchester's newest rimfire, built on a .22 LR case with a smaller bullet, and its loads are at .21 sharp ammo.

When you need a shotgun

Beyond rimfire range, the shotgun takes over. Slugs are single projectiles for deer-sized game at short range, and Remington's 12-gauge slugs are at remington 12 gauge slugs. The 12-gauge minishell is a 1¾-inch shell with about half the payload of a standard shell. It kicks less, but it cycles reliably only in some guns, usually break-action shotguns, and its loads are at 12 gauge minishell ammo.

For waterfowl, where lead shot is not allowed, steel shot shells are at steel shot shells online.

Check the backstop

Whatever the load, identify your target and what lies beyond it. Rimfire bullets can ricochet and carry a long way, and slugs and buckshot are powerful enough to pass through light cover.

General guidance only. Check hunting regulations for the species and season, and confirm current stock and state shipping restrictions before ordering.