The older .22's are a step back in time. Many bolt guns especially ,can be very good shooters , if properly cared for thru their life. Many guns that we paid 30-40 $ for in the '50's and '60's....now bring several hundred $ in good to excellent shape. The Rems, Marlins, Mossbergs, Winchesters and others can be a lot of fun and very serviceable .
The later would be grooved for scopes. The long BBLs. on many made for excellent shooters. ( some had 25" BBLS ). Of course, if you are on a nostalgia trip, the one thing that has changed is ones' eyesight.
The triggers were mostly medicore, with little to be done for much improvement. A slight amount of honing/ polishing may be helpful. However , most of the time not much improvement can be acheived ,nor is it needed.
I have futzzed around changing angles slightly....but not recommended.
The older rifles ( not only rimfires) are a lot of fun.
This is from a guy that appreciates the newer firearms also. That would include the Annies, Coopers, etc. I am an equal opportunity powder burner.
Have fun.
