.22 LR Ammo: The Rimfire Round That Started It All
The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) is the most popular and widely used rimfire ammunition in the world. Trusted for generations by hunters, target shooters, trainers, and plinking enthusiasts, .22 LR ammo is prized for its low cost, minimal recoil, and versatile performance.
Whether you're introducing a new shooter to firearms or fine-tuning your marksmanship, .22 LR offers unmatched shootability, availability, and affordability.
A Legacy of Accessibility and Versatility
Introduced in the late 1800s, the .22 LR was designed as a small-caliber rimfire cartridge suitable for everything from target shooting to small game hunting. Its ability to function in both bolt-action rifles, semi-automatics, and handguns makes it one of the most flexible and accessible rounds on the market.
Key benefits of .22 LR ammo include:
Very low recoil – Ideal for beginners and youth shooters
Quiet report – Great for suppressed firearms and backyard ranges
Extremely low cost per round
Widely compatible with rifles and pistols alike
Common .22 LR Load Types and Uses
Standard Velocity (1,070–1,200 fps) – Reliable and accurate for training, plinking, and precision shooting
High Velocity (1,200–1,300+ fps) – Preferred for semi-automatic cycling and hunting small game
Subsonic – Quieter shooting, ideal for suppressed firearms
Copper-Plated or Lead Round Nose (CPRN/LRN) – Great for target shooting and general use
Hollow Point (HP) – Designed for varmint and small game hunting
Popular Uses for .22 LR Ammo
Target Practice – Affordable and perfect for refining aim and fundamentals
Hunting – Effective for squirrels, rabbits, and other small game
Competition – Used in Olympic shooting and rimfire precision matches
Training – Excellent entry point for new shooters
Pest Control – Minimal over-penetration and noise in rural settings
Shop .22 LR Ammo In Stock and Ready to Ship
We carry a huge selection of .22 LR ammunition from top brands like CCI, Federal, Winchester, Aguila, and Remington. Whether you're buying in bulk or selecting match-grade rounds for precision, our .22 LR inventory is in stock and ready to ship—so you can hit the range or woods with confidence.
FAQs About .22 LR Ammo
Q: What does “LR” stand for in .22 LR?
A: “LR” stands for Long Rifle, distinguishing it from older rimfire rounds like .22 Short and .22 Long.
Q: Can I use .22 LR in any .22 caliber firearm?
A: Not always. .22 LR is not interchangeable with .22 WMR (Magnum) or .22 Short in most cases. Always check your firearm’s specifications.
Q: Is .22 LR good for self-defense?
A: While not ideal, .22 LR can be used for self-defense in a pinch, especially with high-velocity or hollow point rounds. However, centerfire calibers are generally preferred for personal protection.
Q: What’s the effective range of .22 LR?
A: Most .22 LR rounds are accurate up to 100–150 yards, with subsonic and match ammo capable of tight groupings at 50–75 yards.
Q: What’s the best .22 LR ammo for hunting?
A: High-velocity hollow points (e.g., CCI Mini-Mag HP, Federal Game-Shok HP) are excellent for small game due to their expansion and penetration.
