What is a squirrel gun?

A squirrel gun is a firearm of light caliber, typically .22 LR or .22 WMR, intended for the primary purpose of hunting squirrels and small game, such as rabbits. These firearms are often characterized by their relatively small size, shorter barrels, and lightweight construction to aid in ease of use and aiming in confined hunting areas.

Squirrel guns can take various forms, including rifles, pistols, or revolvers, but the most common type is a rifle. Some models may feature semi-automatic actions that allow for rapid firing of multiple rounds, while others may be single-shot or bolt-action.