A QUICK "PRIMER" ON .22 LONG RIFLE AMMO
The .22 Long Rifle (22 LR)—often referred to as 22 ammo, 22 lr ammo, .22 ammo, or 22 long rifle ammo—is one of the most popular and widely used calibers in the world, celebrated for its versatility, affordability, and ease of use. Originally introduced in 1887, it has become a cornerstone for target shooting, small game hunting, and training. The round’s low recoil and minimal noise make it ideal for shooters of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned marksmen.
Standard .22 LR rounds typically feature bullets weighing between 30 and 40 grains, with velocities ranging from subsonic (~1,000 fps) to high-velocity (~1,250 fps) and hyper-velocity (~1,400 fps). These variations allow the cartridge to excel in diverse applications, whether you’re hunting squirrels in the woods or plinking at steel targets on the range. Its inherent accuracy and cost-effectiveness have cemented its place as a go-to round for recreational and competitive shooting alike.
One common point of confusion for new shooters is the difference between standard velocity, high-velocity, and subsonic .22lr ammo. Standard velocity rounds are often used for precision target shooting, thanks to their consistent ballistics. High-velocity rounds add extra energy, making them suitable for hunting small game, while subsonic rounds are favored for suppressed firearms due to their reduced noise.
In terms of options, CCI’s Mini-Mag and Federal’s Champion are standout choices among our customers. The CCI Mini-Mag offers exceptional reliability and cleanliness, making it perfect for semi-automatic firearms. Federal Champion, on the other hand, is an affordable option for those who want quality range ammo without breaking the bank.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING .22 LR AMMO
When buying .22 Long Rifle ammo—often sold as .22lr ammo, 22lr ammo for sale, or simply 22 ammo—consider your specific needs to select the ideal load for your firearm and purpose. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Purpose: For target shooting, standard velocity or bulk-pack FMJ rounds are affordable and accurate. High-velocity hollow points are better for hunting small game, as they deliver the expansion needed for clean, ethical kills.
Bullet Type: FMJ and lead round nose bullets are great for general use, offering reliability and affordability. Hollow-point bullets, often copper-plated, are designed for controlled expansion on impact, making them ideal for hunting applications.
Velocity: Standard velocity rounds (1,070-1,120 fps) are often more accurate and quieter, while high-velocity rounds (~1,250 fps) offer more energy for hunting. Subsonic rounds (<1,000 fps) are perfect for suppressed firearms, significantly reducing noise levels.
Reliability: Rimfire cartridges can be more finicky than centerfire rounds. Stick with trusted brands like CCI, Federal, and Aguila to ensure reliable feeding and consistent performance, particularly in semi-automatic firearms.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Lead rounds tend to leave more residue in your barrel, while copper-plated rounds, like CCI Mini-Mags, can help reduce fouling. Regular cleaning is especially important when using bulk-pack ammunition.
22 LR AMMO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is there a difference between 22 and 22 LR?
- Yes, when people say "22," they could mean several rimfire cartridges. "22 LR" (Long Rifle) specifically refers to the most common rimfire round. Other variants include .22 Short or .22 WMR. Ensure you’re using the correct ammunition for your firearm.
- How far can a 22 shoot accurately?
- With proper marksmanship and quality .22 lr ammo, you can achieve accurate shots at 50 to 100 yards for target shooting. Some skilled shooters can extend this range further, but consistency becomes more challenging beyond 100 yards.
- Is a .22 stronger than a 9mm?
- No. The 9mm centerfire cartridge generally produces significantly more energy and muzzle velocity than .22 rimfire rounds. While the .22 is excellent for training and small game, the 9mm is more powerful overall.
- What are the three types of 22 ammo?
- Commonly, people refer to .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle. However, you might also consider .22 Magnum (WMR) as part of the .22 family. Within .22 LR itself, you’ll find variations like standard velocity, high velocity, and subsonic loads.
- Is 22 ammo good for self-defense?
- While not a top choice due to limited stopping power, .22 ammo can be used for self-defense in certain situations. High-velocity hollow points increase the potential effectiveness, but larger calibers generally offer more reliable stopping power.
- 17 HMR vs 22LR?
- The .17 HMR offers higher velocity and a flatter trajectory, making it excellent for varmint hunting at moderate distances. The .22 LR is cheaper, quieter, and more commonly available, making it ideal for plinking, small game, and general use.
- Can I use 22 LR ammo in my .22 Magnum firearm?
- No, the .22 Long Rifle and .22 Magnum (also known as .22 WMR) are different cartridges with distinct dimensions. They are not interchangeable.
- 22lr vs 22 mag?
- The .22 LR is typically more affordable and widely used for casual shooting and small game. The .22 Mag (WMR) offers higher energy and flatter trajectories but is usually more expensive. Your choice depends on how much power and range you need.
- Should I get 22 LR or 22 MAG?
- It depends on your intended use. The .22 LR is more affordable and widely available, making it great for plinking and small game hunting. The .22 Magnum (22 WMR) offers more velocity and energy, making it better suited for slightly larger game or longer distances.
- How much does a 22LR drop at 100 yards?
- Depending on the load and velocity, a .22 LR bullet can drop anywhere from 2 to 6 inches at 100 yards. High-velocity rounds generally have less drop than subsonic rounds.
OUR TOP 22 LR AMMO RECOMMENDATIONS
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CCI Mini-Mag 36-Grain HP: A premium choice for reliability, this high-velocity hollow-point round is perfect for both hunting and range use. Its copper-plated design minimizes fouling, and it’s known for feeding flawlessly in semi-automatic firearms.
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CCI Quiet Round Nose 40 Grain: Designed for accuracy and affordability, this bulk-pack option is ideal for plinking and target shooting. The lead round nose bullet ensures consistent performance, making it a favorite among recreational shooters.
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Aguila SuperExtra 40-Grain: This high-velocity round delivers excellent performance for the price. Whether you’re hunting small game or enjoying a day at the range, Aguila’s SuperExtra ammo is a versatile choice.
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Use Cases for 22 LR Ammo
- Plinking
- Target Shooting
- Small Game Hunting
- Training
- Youth Shooting Programs
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Popular .22 ammo Ammo Brands
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Common 22 Ammo Caliber Name Variations
- .22 LR
- 22 Long Rifle
- .22 Long Rifle
- .22lr
- 22lr
THE 22 LR AMMO "ROUND UP"
The .22 Long Rifle cartridge remains a beloved classic for a reason. Its versatility, affordability, and reliability make it a must-have for any firearm enthusiast. Whether you’re introducing a new shooter to the sport, heading out for a day of plinking, or honing your skills on the range, 22 lr ammo delivers unmatched value and performance. Explore our selection of top-rated brands and find the perfect load for your next adventure. Every round we stock is backed by our commitment to quality, so you can shoot with confidence, knowing you’ve made the right choice. And if you’re looking for 22lr ammo for sale, we’ve got you covered with plenty of options, from budget-friendly bulk packs to specialty loads tailored for hunting or precision.
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