Just wondering if the general difference between the two is worth going with a bolt action over a semi-auto? Some manufacturers to look at are CZ, Savage, Marlin, Ruger, Zastava, Anschutz, Cooper and so on. This is why most precision rifle competitors start with bolt-action rifles—they are just plain easier to shoot well. With an AR, the bolt has to open, then return without you disturbing it. A mounted scope is able to stay in place when the rifle is disassembled, saving shooters time and energy by eliminating the need to re-zero the sight. Which ones to get - that's going to be hard to answer because every major rifle maker make both semi-auto and bolt action .22LR model, including Ruger. So bolt action rifles are a whole different category.

Something that will not make my wallet scream and is readily available in the stores. IF the bolt action is, in general, appreciably superior to the semi auto in .22 LR, what .22 bolt action gives the best accuracy for the buck? Choosing the best .22LR semi auto rifle is extremely difficult.

For .22LR, the cost difference for bolt versus semi-auto is very little. I have seen experienced bolt-rifle guys have great difficulty achieving the same accuracy with an AR.
Browning 22 Semi-Auto Rifle Wrapping up our list is the classically styled the SA-22 is another takedown rifle, disassembling into two parts, the buttstock/receiver and forearm/barrel. Unstable positions compound the issue. I'm not above hunting with a semi-auto now, I've just grown to love the bolt action rifle. There is an ongoing debate as to whether someone should purchase a semi-automatic rifle or a bolt-action rifle for long-range precision shooting. Both the Ruger 10/22, and Marlin Model 60, quickly come to mind, along with offerings from companies like Mossberg and Remington.

There are a number of very popular rifles made by well known companies on the market. Bolt-action vs. Semi-auto.