Let’s Talk About Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B
The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B is Federal’s offering to the competitive .22LR shooting world and serious plinkers alike. This ammunition is designed for consistent accuracy, a crucial factor in achieving high scores or simply enjoying a day at the range.
My search for reliable .22LR ammo started after too many frustrating range days with inconsistent results. I needed something that would group tightly and cycle reliably in both my target rifle and my .22LR conversion kit for my AR-15.
The packaging, upon arrival, was standard Federal fare – a simple, functional cardboard box. The cartridges themselves looked clean and uniform, exhibiting none of the blemishes or inconsistencies I’ve sometimes seen in bulk .22LR ammo.
I considered several other options, including CCI Standard Velocity and Eley Target. I chose the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire because it promised match-grade accuracy at a more reasonable price point than the Eley, hoping for a good balance of performance and value.
My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic. I’ve been burned before by .22LR ammo that promised the world and delivered mediocre results, so I was eager to see if the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire would live up to its name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire was at my local indoor shooting range. I tested it in my customized Ruger 10/22 target rifle at 50 feet.
The range was well-lit and climate-controlled, providing ideal conditions for evaluating accuracy. The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire performed admirably, grouping consistently within a half-inch at that distance.
It cycled reliably in my Ruger 10/22, with no failures to feed or eject. I was immediately impressed with the consistency and lack of noticeable flyers.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire has continued to impress. I have fired hundreds of rounds through various rifles, including my Ruger 10/22, a bolt-action Savage Mark II, and my AR-15 .22LR conversion kit.
It has consistently proven reliable, with only the occasional misfire which I attribute more to the firearm than the ammunition itself. The ammunition shows no signs of degradation, even after being stored in my range bag for extended periods.
Cleaning my rifles after using this ammo has been relatively easy. Lead fouling is minimal compared to some other .22LR ammunition I’ve used. Compared to cheaper bulk ammunition, the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire delivers far better accuracy and consistency, making it a worthwhile investment for serious target shooters.
Breaking Down the Features of Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle. This is the standard rimfire caliber, suitable for a wide range of rifles and handguns.
- Bullet Type: Lead Round Nose (LRN). LRN bullets are a classic design known for their stability and affordability, making them ideal for target shooting.
- Bullet Weight: 40 grain. This is a standard weight for .22LR ammunition, providing a good balance of velocity and accuracy.
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass. Brass cases are corrosion-resistant and contribute to consistent cartridge dimensions, aiding in reliable feeding and extraction.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1080 ft/s. This velocity offers good stability and accuracy at typical .22LR shooting distances.
- Application: Small Game. Although designed for target shooting, its ballistics can also be effective for small game hunting within appropriate ranges and regulations.
- Package Type: Box. Packaged in boxes of 50 rounds, making it convenient for range trips and storage.
- Primer Style: Rimfire. This is the defining characteristic of .22LR ammunition, with the priming compound located in the rim of the cartridge.
These specifications contribute to the overall performance by providing a balance of velocity, accuracy, and reliability. The brass case and consistent bullet weight ensure smooth feeding and extraction, while the lead round nose design promotes stability in flight.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire ammunition excels in accuracy, delivering tight groupings at various distances. Its consistent performance and reliable ignition make it a joy to shoot, minimizing frustrating misfires and flyers.
While it might not be the absolute most accurate .22LR ammunition available (Eley Match still reigns supreme), it offers excellent performance for the price. The primary area for potential improvement would be slightly tighter quality control to eliminate any potential for fliers altogether.
It definitely meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations for target shooting and training. The consistency and reliability make it a valuable tool for honing shooting skills.
Design & Ergonomics
The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire ammunition is designed with a simple, functional approach. The brass case and lead round nose bullet are classic designs that prioritize performance over aesthetics.
The clean, consistent appearance of the cartridges inspires confidence. There isn’t much to the “ergonomics” of ammunition itself, but the consistent dimensions contribute to reliable feeding and chambering in a variety of firearms. There is virtually no learning curve involved with this ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
When stored properly, this ammunition has a long shelf life. The brass case is corrosion-resistant.
No specific maintenance is required for the ammunition itself beyond proper storage. Cleaning your firearm after use will help to maintain its performance and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories required for the ammunition itself. However, using high-quality magazines and a clean, well-maintained firearm will enhance its performance.
The ammunition is compatible with a wide range of .22LR firearms and accessories, making it a versatile choice. There are no specific “customization” options for the ammunition itself beyond potentially re-seating bullets (which is not recommended for safety reasons).
Pros and Cons of Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Provides tight groupings, crucial for target shooting and training.
- Consistent Performance: Minimizes misfires and flyers, enhancing the shooting experience.
- Reliable Cycling: Feeds and extracts smoothly in a variety of .22LR firearms.
- Reasonable Price: Offers match-grade performance at a more affordable price than premium match ammunition.
- Clean Burning: Reduces lead fouling compared to some other .22LR ammunition.
Cons
- Not the Absolute Best Accuracy: While accurate, it may not match the extreme precision of top-tier match ammunition like Eley Match.
- Occasional Misfires: Though rare, some users may experience occasional misfires.
Who Should Buy Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B?
The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire ammunition is perfect for competitive shooters looking for accurate and reliable ammunition for practice and competition. It is well suited for target shooters who demand consistent performance at the range.
This is a solid pick for small game hunters who need dependable accuracy for ethical shots within appropriate ranges. Anyone who enjoys plinking and wants to improve their marksmanship skills would benefit greatly.
Those seeking the absolute best possible accuracy, regardless of price, might prefer top-tier match ammunition. Those looking for the cheapest possible .22LR ammunition for casual plinking might opt for bulk options instead.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality magazine for your firearm to ensure reliable feeding. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your firearm will also enhance the performance of this ammunition.
Conclusion on Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B
The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B is an excellent choice for shooters seeking accurate, reliable, and consistent performance without breaking the bank. It offers a compelling blend of match-grade accuracy and reasonable pricing, making it a worthwhile investment for target shooters, small game hunters, and anyone looking to improve their marksmanship skills.
The price is justified by the consistent performance and enhanced accuracy it provides compared to bulk ammunition. It is a noticeable upgrade.
I would highly recommend the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire ammunition to anyone serious about .22LR shooting. Pick up a box (or several!) and experience the difference for yourself. Your targets (and your scores) will thank you.