Best Hunting Calibers for Opossum: Comparing .22 LR, .17 HMR, .22 Magnum, .223 Rem, and .410 Bore
Choosing the right caliber for opossum hunting made simple.
When it comes to hunting opossum, choosing the right caliber can feel like picking the perfect fishing lure—there are plenty of options, but which one really gets the job done? Opossum hunting requires precision, minimal meat damage, and a caliber that matches the animal’s size and behavior. In this article, we’ll break down five popular calibers to help you make the best choice for your next opossum hunt.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .22 LR | .17 HMR | .22 Magnum | .223 Rem | .410 Bore |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The distance at which the caliber performs optimally for opossum hunting. |
50 yards | 150 yards | 125 yards | 300 yards | 25 yards |
| Meat Preservation How well the caliber minimizes meat damage. |
Excellent | Good | Good | Poor | Excellent |
| Recoil The amount of felt recoil when firing. |
Minimal | Minimal | Low | Moderate | Low |
| Ammo Cost The average cost of ammunition per round. |
$0.10 | $0.25 | $0.30 | $0.50 | $0.75 |
| Noise Level How loud the caliber is when fired. |
Low | Moderate | Moderate | High | Low |
.22 LR
.22 LR is a classic rimfire cartridge that has been a favorite among small-game hunters for decades. Its low recoil, affordability, and accuracy make it ideal for hunting opossum at close ranges. The .22 LR is perfect for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
Pros
- Low cost
- Minimal recoil
- Excellent for close-range shots
- Widely available
Cons
- Limited effective range
- Not ideal for larger game
Interesting Fact: Did you know that .22 LR is one of the oldest calibers still in widespread use, first introduced in 1887?
Consider this Caliber If…
You want an affordable and reliable option for close-range opossum hunting.
.17 HMR
.17 HMR is a high-velocity rimfire cartridge that excels in accuracy and range. Its flat trajectory makes it a great choice for opossum hunting at medium distances. However, its higher cost and slightly louder report may deter budget-conscious hunters.
Pros
- High velocity
- Flat trajectory
- Good for medium-range shots
Cons
- Higher ammo cost
- Moderate noise level
Interesting Fact: The .17 HMR can reach speeds of up to 2,550 feet per second, making it one of the fastest rimfire cartridges available.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need precision and range for opossum hunting in open areas.
.22 Magnum
.22 Magnum, also known as .22 WMR, offers more power and range than .22 LR while maintaining manageable recoil. It’s a versatile choice for small-game hunting, including opossum, especially when shots may exceed 100 yards.
Pros
- Greater range than .22 LR
- Low recoil
- Versatile for small game
Cons
- More expensive than .22 LR
- Overkill for very close-range shots
Interesting Fact: Despite its small size, .22 Magnum can deliver energy comparable to some centerfire cartridges.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a balance of power and precision for opossum hunting at varied distances.
.223 Rem
.223 Rem is a centerfire cartridge known for its versatility and long-range capabilities. While it’s often used for larger game and varmints, it can be effective for opossum hunting if you’re shooting at extended distances. However, its power can lead to excessive meat damage.
Pros
- Excellent range
- Highly versatile
- Widely available
Cons
- Excessive meat damage
- Higher noise level
- Overkill for opossum
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is the civilian version of the military’s 5.56 NATO round.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need long-range precision and don’t mind sacrificing meat preservation.
.410 Bore
.410 Bore is a lightweight shotgun option that’s perfect for close-range opossum hunting. Its small shot size minimizes meat damage, making it a great choice for hunters who prioritize meat preservation. However, its limited range may be a drawback in open areas.
Pros
- Minimal meat damage
- Low recoil
- Great for close-range hunting
Cons
- Limited range
- Less versatile than rifles
Interesting Fact: The .410 Bore is often used as a beginner’s shotgun due to its low recoil and ease of handling.
Consider this Caliber If…
You prefer a shotgun for close-range opossum hunting with minimal meat damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for opossum hunting depends on your priorities—whether it’s range, meat preservation, or affordability. From the classic .22 LR to the versatile .410 Bore, each caliber offers unique benefits. Consider your hunting environment and goals to make the best choice for your next opossum hunt.