My favorite small game rifle is my Marlin 1894 CL in 25-20 WCF. The bullet is bigger and heavier than a 22 so it really knocks those squirrels over well. Velocity is moderate so you don't get any meat damage. It has a fixed power Weaver K2.5. My heavy barreled CZ 452 in 22 LR is my other favorite. It's incredibly accurate.
