.22 LR Review: Uses, Characteristics, Pros and Cons

 

The .22 LR (Long Rifle) is a widely used rimfire cartridge known for its versatility and affordability. Commonly used in .22 rifles and handguns, the .22 LR is favored for target shooting, small game hunting, and as a training round due to its low recoil and cost-effectiveness. Its typical characteristics include a bullet diameter of 5.6mm, an average velocity of around 1,000 feet per second, and a range effective up to 150 yards.

While the .22 LR offers minimal recoil and noise, its limitations include lower stopping power compared to larger calibers. The .22 LR remains a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike due to its practical benefits and widespread availability.

The .22 LR caliber is a widely popular, low-recoil cartridge, used in some Glock pistols, modern SIG Sauer models, and even 1911 handguns. The .22 LR cartridge is primarily used for target shooting, training, and small game hunting.

What is .22 LR?

 

The .22 LR (Long Rifle) is a rimfire cartridge developed by the J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company in 1887. It is designed for use in rifles and handguns, with a bullet diameter of 5.6mm and a typical velocity of around 1,000 feet per second. The .22 LR is well-regarded for its low recoil and noise, making it ideal for target shooting, small game hunting, and as a training round for new shooters. It is also known for its affordability and widespread availability. The cartridge has been a staple in shooting sports and training due to its balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.

 

 

How does .22 LR compare to 10mm?

 

The .22 LR and 10mm Auto cartridges differ significantly in size, weight, and performance. The .22 LR has a bullet diameter of 5.6mm (0.22 inches), weighs approximately 40-60 grains, and typically achieves a velocity of around 1,000 feet per second. In contrast, the 10mm Auto has a bullet diameter of 10.2mm (0.40 inches), weighs 155-200 grains, and can reach velocities up to 1,200 feet per second. The .22 LR is notably smaller and lighter than the 10mm, making it less powerful but easier to handle and more cost-effective for training. The 10mm, with its larger size and greater power, offers enhanced stopping power and is suitable for self-defense and hunting larger game.

 

What are Other Varieties of .22 Ammo?

 

The .22 caliber is a popular and versatile cartridge size used in a wide variety of firearms. There are several varieties of .22 ammo, each designed for different purposes, including target shooting, hunting, and self-defense.

• .22 LR Subsonic: Designed to operate below the speed of sound (around 1,000 feet per second), reducing noise and recoil, making it ideal for suppressed firearms.
• .22 LR High Velocity: Offers higher speeds, typically around 1,200 feet per second, providing increased range and power compared to standard .22 LR ammo.
• .22 LR Hyper-Velocity CCI: Known for extremely high velocities, often exceeding 1,600 feet per second, delivering enhanced performance and energy, suitable for specialized applications.
• .22 Short: A shorter cartridge with less power and recoil, used in vintage firearms and for small game hunting.
• .22 Long: Slightly longer than the .22 Short, with a bit more power but still less than the .22 LR, often used in older or historical firearms.
• .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR): A more powerful .22 caliber with a bullet diameter similar to the .22 LR but delivering higher velocity and energy, suitable for larger game and extended ranges.

 

What are the primary uses of .22 LR?

 

The .22 LR cartridge is a versatile and widely favored option for various shooting activities, ranging from competitive sports to recreational use. The primary uses are listed below.

• Target Shooting: The .22 LR is popular for precision target shooting due to its low recoil, manageable noise, and accuracy. It's commonly used in competitive shooting sports and recreational practice.
• Small Game Hunting: Ideal for hunting small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and birds due to its sufficient power for these animals and minimal risk of over-penetration.
• Training and Practice: Widely used for training new shooters and for practicing marksmanship because of its low cost, minimal recoil, and gentle handling characteristics.
• Plinkin: Engaged in informal shooting for fun and practice, often in backyard settings or shooting ranges, due to its affordability and ease of use.

The .22 LR stands out as a go-to choice for shooters of all levels, offering a unique combination of affordability, versatility, and ease of use across a wide range of shooting disciplines.

 

How lethal is .22 LR?

 

The .22 LR is relatively less lethal compared to larger calibers. Its small bullet size and lower energy typically result in less severe injuries. While it can cause fatal wounds, especially with multiple shots or at close range, it is less likely to penetrate deeply or cause extensive damage compared to higher-caliber ammunition.

The 10mm ACP delivers significantly more energy and has greater penetration capability, making it more lethal. It can cause severe tissue damage, high-velocity impacts, and deeper penetration, increasing the likelihood of fatal injuries in comparison to the .22 LR.

 

Does a .22 do more damage than a 9mm?

 

No, a .22 LR generally does less damage than a 9mm ammo. The 9mm Parabellum, with a larger bullet diameter (9mm vs. 5.6mm) and higher velocity (around 1,200 feet per second vs. 1,000 feet per second), delivers significantly more kinetic energy and penetration power. This results in greater tissue damage and a higher likelihood of severe injuries compared to the .22 LR, which is less powerful and has lower stopping power.

 

Is .22 LR good for home defense?

 

No, .22 LR is generally not considered ideal for home defense. Its lower power and reduced stopping capability compared to larger calibers, such as 9mm or .45 ACP, may not provide sufficient stopping power to neutralize a threat effectively. While it can cause injury, its limited penetration and energy might not reliably incapacitate an intruder, especially in high-stress situations. For home defense, more powerful cartridges are recommended for better effectiveness and reliability.

 

What are the most popular firearms chambered in .22 LR?

 

The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) cartridge is chambered in a wide variety of firearms, making it a popular choice for different shooting disciplines. Here are some of the most popular firearms chambered in .22 LR.

• Ruger 10/22 Takedown: A versatile and popular semi-automatic rifle known for its ease of disassembly, reliable performance, and extensive aftermarket support.
• Henry Classic Lever .22 Carbine: A lever-action rifle with a classic design, renowned for its smooth operation and traditional styling, ideal for small game hunting and recreational shooting.
• Anschutz 1710 Competition HB 20-inch SS Threaded MDT ACC Chassis: A high-precision bolt-action rifle designed for competitive shooting, featuring a heavy barrel and advanced chassis for superior accuracy and performance.
• Vudoo Gun Works Carbon Sinister: A premium bolt-action rifle built for precision shooting, known for its lightweight carbon fiber construction and high accuracy in competitive environments.
• Savage Rascal Target: A single-shot rifle designed for training and target shooting, with a user-friendly design and reliable accuracy, particularly suitable for younger or novice shooters.

 

What are the ballistic characteristics of .22 LR?

 

Understanding the ballistic characteristics of the .22 LR is essential for appreciating its performance and versatility in various shooting applications.

• .22 LR Bullet Diameter: 5.6mm (0.22 inches)
• .22 LR Bullet Weight: Typically 40-60 grains (2.59-3.89 grams)
• .22 LRVelocity: Around 1,000 to 1,200 feet per second (fps), depending on the load
• .22 LREnergy: Approximately 100-150 foot-pounds (ft-lbs), varying with bullet weight and velocity
• .22 LRTrajectory: Relatively flat out to about 100 yards, with a significant drop beyond that range
• .22 LR Recoil: Minimal, making it easy to handle and suitable for all skill levels
• Penetration and Expansion of the .22 LR: Limited penetration and modest expansion; generally less effective against hard targets and less likely to cause significant tissue damage
• .22 LR Pressure: Low chamber pressure, around 24,000 psi, contributing to its reduced recoil and lower wear on firearms
• .22 LR Ballistics: The .22 LR is designed for accuracy and minimal recoil, with performance that varies based on the specific load used.

 

How effective is .22 LR for self-defense purposes?

 

The .22 LR is generally considered less effective for self-defense compared to larger calibers. While it can cause injury or even death, its limited stopping power, reduced penetration, and lower energy output make it less reliable for incapacitating a threat quickly. In self-defense scenarios, higher-caliber ammunition such as 9mm or .45 ACP is preferred for its greater impact, penetration, and effectiveness in neutralizing threats. The .22 LR's primary strengths lie in its affordability and low recoil, making it more suited for training and recreational shooting rather than high-stakes self-defense.

 

What is the Best .22 LR Glock?

 

The Glock 44 is widely regarded as the best .22 LR Glock available. It is designed to replicate the feel and handling of Glock’s 9mm models, making it an excellent choice for training and practice. The Glock 44 features a 4.02-inch barrel, a magazine capacity of 10 rounds, and is built with Glock’s Safe Action System for reliability and safety. Its lightweight design and low recoil make it ideal for new shooters and those looking to practice with minimal expense.

 

What are the Pros and Cons of .22 LR?

 

Pros:

• Low Recoil of the .22LR: Minimal kickback makes it suitable for shooters of all experience levels.
• Affordable Ammunition: Lower cost per round compared to most other calibers, making it economical for practice and training.
• Minimal Noise: Less noisy than larger calibers, which is advantageous for both indoor shooting and use in noise-sensitive environments.
• Versatility of the .22LR: Effective for target shooting, small game hunting, and recreational plinking.

Cons:

• Limited Stopping Power of the .22 LR: Less effective for self-defense due to lower energy and reduced penetration.
• Lower Accuracy at Long Range: Ballistic performance diminishes beyond 100 yards, affecting precision over greater distances.
• Less Effective for Larger Game: Insufficient power for hunting larger or even medium sized animals, limiting its use in more demanding scenarios.
• Penetration Issues: Limited ability to penetrate barriers or hard surfaces, which can reduce effectiveness in certain situations.

 

How powerful is .22 LR?

 

The .22 LR is relatively low in power compared to larger calibers. It typically generates around 100-150 foot-pounds of energy and has a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,000 to 1,200 feet per second. This results in modest impact and penetration capabilities. While sufficient for small game hunting and target shooting, its lower power limits its effectiveness for self-defense or larger game.

 

Is .22 LR good for self-defense?

 

No, .22 LR is generally not considered ideal for self-defense. Its lower energy, reduced penetration, and minimal stopping power make it less effective compared to larger calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP. While it can cause injury, it is less reliable for quickly incapacitating a threat. The .22 LR's primary advantages are its low recoil and cost-effectiveness, making it more suited for training and recreational shooting rather than high-stakes self-defense.

 

Can .22 LR penetrate a human skull?

 

Yes, a .22 LR can penetrate a human skull under certain conditions. While the .22 LR is generally less powerful than larger calibers, it can penetrate the skull and cause severe damage, particularly at close range or with high-velocity variants. However, its effectiveness may vary based on factors such as bullet type, range, and the specific circumstances of the impact. The .22 LR’s reduced energy and penetration capabilities make it less reliable for consistently causing fatal damage compared to more powerful ammunition.

 

Can a .22 stop an attacker?

 

Yes, a .22 LR can potentially stop an attacker, but it is less reliable compared to larger calibers. While the .22 LR can cause injury or incapacitate an attacker, its lower energy and reduced stopping power make it less effective in quickly neutralizing a threat. Factors such as shot placement and the attacker’s physical condition play a significant role. For self-defense, larger calibers are generally preferred for their superior stopping power and reliability.

 

Are .22 LR only for rifles?

 

No, .22 LR is not only for rifles. It is commonly used in both rifles and handguns. While it is widely known for its use in .22 LR rifles, such as the Ruger 10/22, it is also frequently chambered in pistols, including models like the Glock 44 and the Smith & Wesson M&P22. This versatility makes the .22 LR suitable for various shooting applications, including target practice, training, and small game hunting.