Years ago, I attended a number of Appleseed events including one of their week-long boot camps. Their blog suggested bringing a 22LR long gun in addition to a personal “battle rifle”. As I’m sure you already know, their pick for the 22 is the venerable Ruger 10/22. After some modifications, it becomes the Appleseed “Liberty Rifle”.
I did the calculations, and the math told me the savings on 22LR ammo vs the .223 ammo I would normally have shot would be enough to pay for the Ruger. So, that’s exactly what I did. Bought the Wal-Mart 10/22 special, dressed it up with Tech Sights and some Volquartsen thingees...and lots of 22 ammo. One of the best weapons decisions I’ve made. Not to mention...it’s just a lot of fun to shoot.
I fear the shortage has put a crimp in that aspect of the Appleseed program.
Appleseed, Great Program.