CCI Rimfire Ammunition just clinched the Predator Xtreme 2026 Readers’ Choice Gold Award for Rimfire Ammunition—for the *tenth straight year*. That’s not just a winning streak; it’s a dynasty in the world of small-caliber supremacy. Voters in the predator hunting community, those hardcore rimfire enthusiasts who live for varmint takedowns at dawn, have spoken loud and clear: CCI’s reliability, consistency, and flat-out performance under field conditions can’t be beat. In an era where ammo shortages and quality dips have plagued shooters, this decade-long dominance underscores why CCI remains the go-to for plinkers, trainers, and precision pest controllers alike. It’s a testament to American manufacturing grit, proving that when readers’ real-world rifles do the talking, CCI listens—and delivers.

Adding fuel to the fire, CCI Rimfire Product Manager Steve Monniere dropped news of two fresh Hunter Series loads in .22 LR, both packing innovative Small Game Bullets for 2026. These aren’t your grandpa’s high-velocity hollow points; they’re engineered for explosive expansion on furry targets like squirrels and rabbits, minimizing meat damage while maximizing one-shot stops. Think hollow points with polymer tips for better feeding and terminal ballistics that turn small game into mist without overpenetration risks. For the 2A community, this is gold: affordable, high-volume training rounds that double as hunt-ready performers, bridging the gap between range time and real hunts. In a post-pandemic market still jittery from supply chains, CCI’s innovation signals stability—more options for new shooters entering the fold, budget-conscious families stocking up, and competition shooters chasing sub-MOA groups.

The implications ripple far beyond the trophy case. A tenth-year sweep isn’t luck; it’s market leadership that pressures competitors to up their game, driving down prices and upping quality across rimfire shelves. For 2A advocates, it’s a win for accessibility: .22 LR as the ultimate gateway caliber keeps the next generation armed, trained, and enthusiastic about their rights. With these new loads hitting in 2026, expect CCI to solidify its throne, reminding us that in the right-to-bear-arms arena, consistent hits win the day. Stock up, hunters—history’s on repeat, and CCI’s just getting started.