I'd reccomend a standard ruger 10-22 (blued synthetic was my choice) and a bushnell trophy 3-9 scope. If your just hunting small game theres no need for a super expensive scope. I set up a ruger 10-22 blued/synthetic last winter, i have shot about half a dozen jack rabbits with it (10 yrds-50yrds) a few cottontails (10-15yrds), a ton of starlings (likely hundreds) (10-75yrds), a partridge and a couple grouse with it. Theres a few other pests i've used it on at the farm with great accuracy as well. I have a 4-12 power cheap tasco on it, works fine for rimfire small game hunting. Total cost will be $400 ($300 for gun, $100 for scope).
Oh, and for groups i can put 10 shots ito a dime size hole at 40 yards (12X Scope) with game loads ammunition. Loonie size groups at 50 yards and by 75 yards compensation is needed to hit targets but it still seems pretty good (2'' or so) The clip is an advantage to this rifle over others as well, works nicely to have a spare always ready in the pocket in case a quick reload is needed (i run into this a lot starling hunting when a big flock lands in the field and can't figure out whats happening to their buddies). Good luck with whatever you choose.
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