Rimfire Ammo

What is Rimfire Ammo?

Rimfire ammo is a cartridge that puts the primer into the rim of the casing rather than in the center of the casing. When the firing pin of the gun strikes the rim, it crushes the priming compound and ignites the propellant, which propels the bullet down range. The most common type of rimfire ammunition is known for its lower recoil, quieter firing, and low cost, making it ideal for training, plinking, small game hunting, or introducing new shooters to firearms. The most popular rimfire caliber is .22LR, but other calibers such as .17HMR and .22 HMR are common.

Choosing the Right Rimfire Ammo

Choosing the right rimfire ammo starts with understanding your firearm and the caliber it uses.

Rimfire ammo comes in several calibers. Always use the specific caliber your gun requires. Rimfire cartridges are not interchangeable, even if they look and feel similar. Try a few different brands to see which works best in your gun.

Rimfire ammo works great for target shooting and plinking, small game hunting, and competitions. Standard velocity rounds, like .22 LR, are affordable and reliable in bolt-action and semi-auto pistols or rifles when target shooting and plinking. High-velocity hollow points provide the energy and penetration for small game hunting. And match-grade rimfire ammo offers tighter groups for competitive shooting.

Rimfire FAQs

Is rimfire ammo suitable for hunting, target shooting, or self-defense?

Rimfire cartridges are versatile and offer a wide variety of applications. For hunting, they are best used for small game due to their small caliber and lower power output than centerfire cartridges. They are often used to hunt squirrels, rabbits, and birds at close to medium range.

Rimfire ammo is particularly good for recreational shooting, such as marksmanship training, plinking, and general target practice. The lower recoil, reduced noise, and affordability make it ideal for those who like to shoot often.

However, it is not recommended for self-defense. While they could be used in a dire situation, they are not as effective as centerfire rounds of larger calibers and will not pack as big a punch in a life-threatening situation.

What are the advantages and limitations of using rimfire ammo compared to other types of ammo?

Rimfire ammunition has a unique set of advantages and limitations compared to other types of ammunition.

Advantages:

• Affordability - rimfire cartridges are generally more cost-effective than centerfire, which makes them popular for recreational shooting.
• Low recoil - rimfire rounds produce minimal recoil, which is beneficial for beginning shooters or those who prefer a more comfortable experience.
• Lightweight firearms - rimfire guns are typically lighter and more compact due to the small size of the cartridges, which makes them easier to handle.
• Versatility - rimfire ammunition is suitable for various shooting activities, such as hunting small game, plinking, and target practice.

Limitations:

• Limited power - rimfire cartridges have a lower power output than centerfire rounds, restricting their effectiveness for hunting large game or for self-defense.
• Reliability concerns - rimfire priming is more susceptible to misfiring or being duds, which could impact reliable performance.
• Limited caliber options - rimfire cartridges are produced in small calibers, the most common being .22 LR (.22 long rifle), which restricts use to recreational use and small game hunting.
• Range limitations - due to the lower power output and trajectory characteristics, rimfire rounds are effective at shorter ranges.

How reliable is rimfire ammunition in terms of accuracy and performance?

Rimfire ammunition, known for its affordability and versatility, offers relatively decent reliability in terms of accuracy and performance. It can provide good accuracy when used in a well-maintained gun. Consistency in manufacturing can also contribute to reliability. Rimfire cartridges are more accurate at shorter ranges; long-range applications are not recommended since the power output is fairly low. Skill also plays a large part in accuracy. A skilled shooter will be much more accurate than an inexperienced shooter. As for performance, rimfire ammunition performs impeccably in recreational applications and small-game hunting at close to medium range.

Can rimfire cartridges be reloaded?

Rimfire cartridges are primarily designed for one-time use. With the primer compound distributed around the rim of the casing, it is extremely difficult to effectively reload rimfire cartridges at home and can be quite dangerous.

How does the cost of rimfire cartridges compare to other types of ammunition?

Rimfire cartridges are generally more cost-effective than other ammo and are an excellent choice for regular shooting activities. Their simple mechanical manufacturing process saves labor, and their small size uses less material than many other types of cartridges, giving them a lower production cost. Additionally, they can often be bought in bulk, making them even more budget-friendly.