Rimfire ammo refers to a type of firearm cartridge that has the primer built into the rim of the casing. When the firing pin strikes the rim, it ignites the primer, which in turn ignites the gunpowder and fires the bullet.
This design makes rimfire ammunition more affordable and widely used, particularly in small-caliber firearms such as .22LR. Popular for target shooting, hunting small game, and training, this ammunition has low recoil and is quiet. For high-quality rimfire ammunition, check out the wide selection at Reloading Supplies HQ. We offer top brands and reliable options to suit all your shooting needs.
A Closer Look at Rimfire Ammunition
Rimfire ammunition differs from centerfire ammo in how it ignites. Rimfire rounds do not have a separate primer in the center. Instead, the priming compound is spread out in the rim. When the firing pin hits, the thin casing crushes. This causes the primer to ignite the gunpowder and push the bullet forward.
Because of this design, manufacturers typically make rimfire casings from thinner brass, which makes them non-reloadable. This is one reason rimfire ammo tends to be more affordable compared to centerfire options. The simplicity of the design also allows for mass production, keeping costs low while maintaining effectiveness.
History of Rimfire Ammunition
Rimfire ammunition started in the mid-1800s. Engineers created it as a better option than older ignition systems. The .22 Short, developed by Smith & Wesson in 1857, was one of the first successful rimfire cartridges.
Designers initially created it for self-defense, but it later gained popularity for target shooting and small game hunting. Over time, advancements in rimfire technology led to the development of the .22 Long Rifle (LR), which remains one of the most widely used cartridges in the world today.
Other notable developments include the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR), which offers higher velocity and greater stopping power than the standard .22LR. The .17 Manufacturers launched Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) in the early 2000s. It quickly became popular for its accuracy and speed.
What is Rimfire Ammo Used For?
Rimfire ammunition is favored for a variety of applications, including:
- Target Shooting – Due to its affordability and low recoil, rimfire ammo is ideal for practice and competitive shooting.
- Small Game Hunting – Calibers like .22LR and .17HMR are excellent choices for hunting rabbits, squirrels, and other small animals.
- Training and Plinking – New shooters often start with rimfire firearms because they are easy to handle and inexpensive to shoot.
- Pest Control – Many homeowners and farmers use rimfire ammunition for controlling pests like rats, raccoons, and other small varmints.
- Survival Situations – Many survivalists carry rimfire firearms due to their lightweight nature and ability to store large amounts of ammunition affordably.
For those who need reliable rimfire ammunition for any of these purposes, Reloading Supplies HQ carries a variety of options to meet your needs.
Different Types of Rimfire Ammunition
Several types of rimfire cartridges exist, but some of the most commonly used include:
- .22 Long Rifle (LR) – The most popular and widely available rimfire round, suitable for target practice and hunting small game.
- .22 Magnum (WMR) – Offers more power and range than .22LR, making it a good choice for hunting and varmint control.
- .17 HMR – A high-velocity rimfire round known for its accuracy and effectiveness in hunting small, fast-moving targets.
- .22 Short – A lower-powered option often used for training, recreational shooting, and older firearms designed for this specific cartridge.
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Popular Rimfire Ammo Brands
When choosing rimfire ammunition, it is important to buy from reputable brands that offer consistent performance and reliability. Here are some of the top brands available today:
CCI (Cascade Cartridge Inc.) – Known for high-quality and reliable .22LR ammunition, especially the CCI Mini-Mag and Stinger rounds.
Federal Premium – Produces high-performance rimfire cartridges, including the Federal AutoMatch and Champion series.
Remington – Popular for its Golden Bullet and Thunderbolt .22LR options.
Winchester – A trusted name in ammunition, offering the Super-X and Varmint HV series.
Hornady – Specializes in high-velocity rimfire rounds like the .17 HMR and .22 WMR.
You can find these brands and more at Reloading Supplies HQ, ensuring you get the best ammunition for your shooting needs.
Comparing Rimfire vs. Centerfire Ammunition
| Feature | Rimfire Ammo | Centerfire Ammunition |
| Ignition System | Primer in rim | Primer in center |
| Reloadable | No | Yes |
| Recoil | Low | Varies ( Can be high) |
| Price | Affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Common Uses | Target shooting, small game hunting | Hunting, self-defense, military applications |
Centerfire ammunition is more powerful and reloadable, making it a preferred choice for larger game hunting and tactical applications. However, rimfire ammunition remains unbeatable for cost-effective training and recreational shooting.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Rimfire Ammunition:
Advantages:
- Affordable – One of the most cost-effective types of ammunition available.
- Low Recoil – Makes shooting more comfortable, especially for beginners.
- Widely Available – Commonly found in sporting goods stores and online retailers.
- Ideal for Beginners – Great for teaching new shooters how to handle firearms safely and accurately.
- Less Noise – Compared to centerfire rounds, rimfire ammunition tends to be quieter, making it a preferred choice for urban or backyard practice (where legally permitted).
Limitations:
- Limited Power – Not suitable for large game hunting or self-defense.
- Non-Reloadable – The thin casing cannot be reused like centerfire brass.
- Less Reliable Ignition – Some lower-quality rimfire rounds may misfire due to inconsistencies in primer distribution.
- Limited Caliber Selection – While there are several rimfire calibers, centerfire ammunition offers a much wider variety of power levels and uses.
Choosing the Right Rimfire Ammo
Selecting the right rimfire ammunition depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for an inexpensive round for practice or plinking, .22LR is a great choice. For small game hunting or varmint control, .22 Magnum and .17 HMR provide more power and range. If you have an older firearm that is designed for .22 Short, it can still be an effective round for light shooting and pest control.
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Safety Tips for Handling Rimfire Ammo
When using rimfire ammunition, always follow standard firearm safety practices to ensure a safe shooting experience:
- Store ammunition properly – Keep rimfire ammo in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture.
- Use the correct caliber – Always match your ammunition to the specifications of your firearm.
- Check for misfires – If a rimfire round fails to fire, wait at least 30 seconds before removing it from the chamber.
- Wear protective gear – Always use eye and ear protection when shooting.
Final Thoughts
Rimfire ammo is a great option for those looking for an affordable, low-recoil, and versatile cartridge. Rimfire ammunition is a good choice for everyone. It works well for beginners, hunters, and recreational shooters. Understanding how it works and its best uses can help you make informed decisions when choosing the right ammo for your needs.
If you are looking to buy rimfire ammo, Reloading Supplies HQ is your go-to source. We offer many high-quality cartridges from trusted brands. This ensures you get the best performance for your shooting activities. Browse our selection today and find the perfect rimfire ammunition for your needs.
