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Rimfire Ammo
About Rimfire Ammo
Invented in 1845, by Louis-Nicolas Flobert, the first rimfire metallic cartridge was the .22 BB Cap (a.k.a. 6mm Flobert) cartridge, which consisted of a percussion cap with a bullet attached to the top.
While many other different cartridge priming methods have been tried since the 19th century, only rimfire and the later centerfire cartridges survive to the present day with regular usages.
The 22 Long Rifle rimfire cartridge, introduced in 1887, is by far the most common ammunition in the world today in terms of units sold.
Common Name / Types of Rimfire Ammunition
Since its initial release over 170 years ago, Rimfire Cartridges have come a long way and have had many different variations. Some of the most common include:
| • 22LR Ammo | • 22MAG Ammo | • 22 Magnum Ammo |
| • 22 Long Ammo | • 22 Short Ammo | • 17HMR Ammo |
Regardless of your preferred terminology, Rimfire Cartridges have come a long way, gaining massive popularity over the years.
Rimfire is utilized by new and experienced firearm owners. It is available in the lineup of every significant American ammo manufacturer.
What Guns Shoot Rimfire Ammo?
| Glock | Smith & Wesson | Ruger | Browning |
| • Glock 44 | • M&P 15-22 Sport Rimfire | • Ruger 10/22 Carbine | • Browning BL-22 FLD Grade I |
| • M&P 22 Compact | • Ruger 10/22 Sporter | • Browning 1911-22 | |
| • S&W SW22 Victory | • Bolt-Action Rimfire Rifle | • Browning Buck Mark Camper | |
| • Ruger Wrangler | |||
| • Ruger Lite Rack LCP II |
Rimfire Ammo Benefits
Rimfire ammunition is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of ammunition due to its high popularity and low manufacturing costs, making it a popular choice for budget-minded shooters.
Rimfire cartridges typically have low recoil, making them easy to shoot accurately and comfortably for extended periods of time.
Rimfire ammunition is also known for producing relatively low noise, which makes it ideal for shooting in areas where noise may be a concern, such as urban shooting ranges or backyard plinking.
Rimfire ammunition is generally less powerful than centerfire ammunition, making it less effective at longer ranges and for hunting larger game.
Rimfire ammunition is typically available in smaller calibers, such as .22 Long Rifle, making it ideal for shooting small game or for recreational shooting and plinking.
Due to its design, rimfire ammunition can be inherently less reliable than centerfire ammunition. However, when purchasing high-quality ammunition from a reputable manufacturer, owners are less likely to experience issues.
In many ways, gun enthusiasts consider Rimfire rifles and pistols a top choice for new gun owners and youths. With countless firearm models to choose from and ammunition being easily found and purchased online and throughout most gun shops.
Rimfire Ammo FAQ
What ammo is rimfire?
Rimfire ammunition is a type of metallic cartridge whose primer is located within a hollow circumferential rim protruding from the base of its casing. Among the most common rimfire cartridges are 22 caliber and 17 calibers.
What is rimfire ammo used for?
The lower pressure loads of rimfire cartridges tend to be popular for small-game (or varmint) hunting, sport shooting, and plinking.
Rimfire is also commonly used in competitive shooting, but less preferred for self-defense.
Can Rimfire Cartridges go bad?
There is no actual expiration date for Rimfire ammo. However, keeping it in the correct conditions (cool and dry) will ensure that your rimfire rounds will last over a lifetime!
For more information, check out our article How to Store Ammo.
Can you hunt with rimfire ammo?
Rimfire cartridges are often used when hunting small game like rats, gophers, and smaller sized birds.
They kill quickly but are not likely to cause excessive damage unless headshots are taken.
When utilizing a rimfire rifle or rimfire pistol for small game hunting, 22LR ammunition is often the preferred choice.
Which is better rimfire or centerfire?
While rimfire is excellent for rookie shooters and those who are into small game hunting, centerfire is perfect for big game hunting and home defense.
Additionally, rimfire ammo is usually cheaper and offers a lower recoil than its counterpart. In the end, the choice will depend on the intended use.
Why Choose Ammunition Depot for Rimfire Ammo?
With the best selection of ammo, magazines, and firearms online, Ammunition Depot is your go-to source when purchasing ammo online.
Our extensive online catalog of target practice and small game Rimfire Ammo for sale is available to ship at low prices.