Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B Review

My Journey with the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B

For years, I’ve been on a relentless quest for ammunition that strikes that elusive balance between accuracy, consistency, and value. My personal shooting endeavors often involve rimfire precision work, whether it’s for honing marksmanship skills on the range or for the occasional small game pursuit where every shot counts. The constant need for reliable feeding and predictable flight paths led me to explore various options, often finding myself weighing performance against cost. It was during one of these research dives that the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B repeatedly surfaced as a top contender for competitive shooters and serious plinkers alike.

My initial decision to try this particular ammunition stemmed from a specific need for a step up from bulk pack options, but without venturing into the stratospheric prices of dedicated match-grade rounds that often exceed $20 for 50. I had been experiencing frustrating inconsistencies with some cheaper alternatives, leading to wider-than-desired groups and a general lack of confidence in my firearm’s potential. While I considered Eley Match, its price point for practice was simply prohibitive for my needs.

Upon receiving my first box, the packaging itself—a simple, functional 50-round box—communicated a no-nonsense approach. The cartridges themselves felt solid and well-formed, a subtle but important first impression. The lead round nose design is classic and expected for .22 LR, but it was the promise of “Gold Medal” precision that piqued my interest the most. My first impression was one of quiet anticipation; this ammunition felt like it was designed for serious business, a stark contrast to some of the sloppier offerings I’d encountered.

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 initial testing grounds were familiar: the 50-yard line at my local outdoor range. I loaded the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire into a variety of .22 LR platforms, including a vintage Winchester Model 52, a modern CZ 457, and a reliable Ruger 10/22. The immediate takeaway was a significant reduction in group size compared to my usual range fodder. The rounds fed smoothly from magazines and directly into chambers without a hitch across all firearms.

Under a clear, calm day with minimal wind, the consistency was striking. The rounds consistently cycled through the actions, and ejection was clean. I experienced no duds or misfires, which, while not unheard of with quality ammunition, is always a welcome sign. The only minor surprise was that the muzzle velocity of 1080 ft/s, while advertised, felt consistent and predictable, translating into very stable point-of-impact at 50 yards.

Extended Use & Reliability

As weeks turned into months, this ammunition became a staple for my range sessions. I’ve now gone through several bricks (500 rounds each) of this Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire. It consistently performs well, delivering tight groups across my favored bolt-action rifles and holding its own in semi-automatics, though the latter will always have slight variations due to action cycling.

Durability has not been an issue; the brass casings show normal signs of extraction but no signs of weakness or deformation even after multiple cycles through my rifles. Maintenance has been minimal, as the lead round nose design and advertised clean-burning powder result in less fouling than many other .22 LR rounds. Compared to the bulk “plinking” rounds I used previously, the reduction in barrel leading and action gunk is substantial, meaning less time spent cleaning and more time shooting. When stacked against other “premium” practice loads I’ve tried, it holds its own remarkably well, often matching or exceeding their accuracy at a significantly lower price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B

Specifications

The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B comes standard in a 50-round box, making it convenient for range trips without needing to buy in overwhelming bulk. Each cartridge features a 40 grain Lead Round Nose (LRN) bullet, a classic and effective design for target shooting and small game. The cartridge case is constructed from durable Brass, a standard and reliable material known for its resilience and ease of extraction.

This ammunition boasts a advertised Muzzle Velocity of 1080 ft/s, which is crucial for predicting bullet drop and maintaining accuracy at various distances. It is designed for Small Game hunting and general target shooting applications, offering a versatile performance profile. The primer style is specifically Rimfire, meaning the priming compound is contained within the rim of the casing, ignited by the firing pin striking that rim.

These specifications collectively point to a carefully engineered round. The 40-grain weight combined with the 1080 ft/s velocity offers a good balance of ballistic stability and reasonable power for its class. The LRN bullet design ensures good feeding characteristics in a wide variety of firearms, while the brass casing contributes to reliable extraction. For comparison, many bulk .22 LR rounds might use lighter bullets or have less stringent quality control on their case construction. The emphasis on precision tolerances and exceeding OTM (Official Target Material) specifications, as noted in the product description, directly translates to the consistent accuracy users expect from a “Gold Medal” designation.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this ammunition is accuracy, and it delivers exceptionally well. Across my testing platforms, groups at 50 yards consistently hovered between 1/2 and 5/8 inches for 10-round strings, which is excellent for .22 LR ammunition in this price bracket. The bullets exhibit a predictable and stable flight path, crucial for consistent hits.

A key strength is its unmatched accuracy for its price point; it truly bridges the gap between budget plinking rounds and expensive competition fodder. The ultra-tight tolerances are palpable in the consistent performance, ensuring that each shot behaves predictably. Its main weakness, if one can call it that, is that it’s not the absolute fastest .22 LR round on the market, which some extreme long-range rimfire competitors might seek. However, for its intended purpose—target shooting, training, and small game—its balance of speed and accuracy is superb. It meets and frequently exceeds expectations for a premium target load.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B is straightforward and functional. The lead round nose profile is a tried-and-true shape that aids in reliable feeding and consistent aerodynamic performance. The brass casing provides a classic look and tactile feel, feeling substantial in the hand and signaling quality construction.

Ergonomically, ammunition isn’t something you “hold” in the traditional sense for extended periods, but the consistency in rim thickness and overall dimensions means it handles flawlessly when loading magazines or individual rounds. There’s no “learning curve” for the ammunition itself; its design prioritizes reliable function in standard .22 LR firearms. The overall feel is one of robust engineering, with clear markings and precise manufacturing that instills confidence before the first shot is even fired.

Durability & Maintenance

As ammunition, the durability is measured by its shelf life and performance degradation over time. When stored properly in a cool, dry environment, these rounds are designed to last for many years. The brass casing is corrosion-resistant, and the rimfire primer is sealed to protect against moisture.

Maintenance is incredibly minimal. The primary benefit in terms of “maintenance” is the clean-burning powder Federal Premium claims, which leads to less fouling in firearms. This means you spend less time cleaning your rifle or pistol after a range session, which is a significant advantage for any shooter. I haven’t encountered any failure points with the ammunition itself; the primary concern for any rimfire ammunition is proper storage to prevent primer degradation.

Accessories and Customization Options

Ammunition, by its nature, doesn’t typically come with accessories or have customization options in the way a firearm or tool might. The Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B comes as a standalone product, designed to be used as-is. The only “accessory” consideration would be how you store it; a quality ammo can or sturdy box is recommended for long-term storage and transport.

While the ammunition itself cannot be customized, its performance is heavily influenced by the firearm it is used in. This means that accessories for your rifle or pistol, such as specialized scopes or triggers, can indirectly enhance the perceived performance of the ammunition by allowing you to better exploit its inherent accuracy. However, the ammunition stands on its own as a high-quality, ready-to-use product.

Pros and Cons of Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B

Who Should Buy Federal Premium Gold Medal Rimfire .22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Rimfire Ammunition 711B?

This ammunition is ideally suited for serious .22 LR shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistency without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent choice for competitive rimfire shooters practicing for matches, small game hunters who demand reliable performance, and marksmanship enthusiasts looking to improve their skills. The consistent performance also makes it a great option for training new shooters, as it minimizes variables related to ammunition quality.

Those who should probably skip this ammunition are individuals looking for the absolute cheapest bulk plinking rounds for high-volume, low-accuracy shooting. It’s also not the primary choice for shooters needing ultra-high velocity rounds for specific long-range .22 LR applications where every extra foot per second matters. A must-have complementary item would be a quality cleaning kit for your firearm, as even “clean-burning” ammunition requires periodic maintenance to keep your tools in top condition.

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 stands out as a superior choice for those seeking a blend of precision, reliability, and value in their .22 LR ammunition. Its consistent accuracy, minimal fouling, and robust construction make it a compelling option for a wide range of shooting disciplines. The price point is more than justified by the performance gains realized over cheaper alternatives, positioning it as an indispensable tool for improvement.

I absolutely recommend this ammunition for anyone looking to elevate their rimfire shooting experience. Whether you’re on the competition line or just want to wring the most accuracy out of your favorite .22 rifle, this Federal Premium offering delivers. It’s not just ammunition; it’s a reliable partner in achieving your shooting goals.