Learn More about .22LR Ammo
History of .22LR Ammo
The .22LR was initially developed by the J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company as an evolution of earlier rimfire cartridges. Its combination of low recoil, quiet operation, and respectable accuracy made it an instant success. Over the decades, it has been chambered in everything from bolt-action rifles to semi-automatic pistols, securing its place as one of the most popular cartridges in the firearms world.
Shooters appreciate the .22LR not just for its historical significance but also for its continued relevance. While many cartridges have come and gone, the .22LR remains a cornerstone in shooting sports, hunting, and training.
Practical Uses for the .22LR
The .22LR is incredibly versatile. Its light recoil makes it an excellent starting point for new shooters, while its precision and effectiveness have earned respect from experienced marksmen. Whether plinking cans in the backyard, sharpening your shooting skills at the range, or teaching a friend how to handle a firearm safely, the .22LR delivers.
Its widespread use spans across rifles, handguns, and even revolvers. Popular options like the Ruger 10/22 rifle or the Browning Buck Mark pistol show how this cartridge can be paired with high-quality firearms for excellent results.
Small Game Hunting with the .22LR
Few cartridges can rival the .22LR for small game hunting. It perfectly balances power and precision for ethically harvesting animals like rabbits, squirrels, or other small varmints. Its flat trajectory over short distances and quiet report make it a favorite for hunters who need to take precise shots without startling other game.
Firearms such as the Henry Golden Boy or CZ 457 demonstrate the .22LR’s effectiveness for small-game hunting. These rifles offer pinpoint accuracy and are built to handle the demands of field use while keeping weight and recoil manageable.
Rimfire vs. Centerfire
The .22LR is a rimfire cartridge, which means its primer is located in the rim of the case rather than in the center, as with centerfire ammunition. Rimfire cartridges have lower pressures and costs, making them ideal for casual shooting and training.
In comparison, centerfire cartridges are designed for higher pressures, offering more power, range, and higher costs. For shooters on a budget or those who want to enjoy frequent range trips, the .22LR’s rimfire design is hard to beat.
Training with the .22LR
When it comes to firearms training, the .22LR excels. Its lack of recoil and affordable ammunition make it ideal for teaching new shooters proper technique without overwhelming them. Many trainers use .22LR pistols and rifles as an introduction to shooting fundamentals, allowing students to focus on sight alignment, trigger control, and safety practices.
Even experienced shooters appreciate the .22LR for its practicality in skill-building. It allows for frequent practice sessions without the financial burden of centerfire ammunition, making it a valuable tool for sharpening marksmanship.
Price
One of the .22LR’s most significant advantages is its affordability. Ammunition costs are a fraction of those for larger calibers, and firearms chambered in .22 LR are also relatively inexpensive. This makes it easy to enjoy shooting regularly without breaking the bank. Whether stocking up for a weekend at the range or preparing for a small game hunting trip, the low price of .22LR ammunition ensures it remains accessible to nearly everyone.