The .22 Short and the .22 Long Rifle (often shortened to .22 LR) are two of the most popular rimfire cartridges in the world. Both are relatively inexpensive, easy to shoot, and readily available, making them popular choices for plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting. However, there are significant differences between the two that impact their performance and suitability for various applications. This comprehensive guide delves into the key distinctions between the .22 Short and .22 LR to help you choose the right cartridge for your needs.
Understanding the Cartridge Differences: .22 Short vs .22 LR
The .22 Short and .22 LR cartridges share a similar design, but their key differences lie in their case length and powder charge. This seemingly small variation results in significant differences in ballistic performance.
Cartridge Dimensions and Powder Charge
| Feature | .22 Short | .22 Long Rifle |
|---|---|---|
| Case Length | 15.6 mm (0.614 in) | 25.4 mm (1.0 in) |
| Bullet Weight | Typically 29-40 grains | Typically 29-40 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~700-800 fps | ~1000-1200 fps |
| Energy | ~70-100 ft-lbs | ~130-200 ft-lbs |
As the table shows, the .22 LR boasts a significantly longer case, allowing for a much larger powder charge. This translates to higher muzzle velocity and greater energy downrange, making it a more effective round for hunting and target shooting. The .22 Short, with its smaller powder charge, produces considerably less power.
Ballistic Performance Comparison
The difference in power is dramatically illustrated in the following comparison:
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Range: A .22 LR typically has effective range of around 150 yards for small game hunting, while a .22 Short is limited to roughly 50 yards. Beyond these distances, accuracy and stopping power diminish significantly.
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Penetration: The greater energy of the .22 LR leads to increased penetration in targets. This makes it suitable for hunting small game like squirrels, rabbits, and even larger animals at closer ranges. The .22 Short's lower energy makes it less effective at longer ranges and for hunting larger targets.
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Accuracy: Both cartridges can be reasonably accurate, but the higher velocity and better energy of the .22 LR often contributes to slightly better accuracy at longer ranges. This is especially true with high-quality ammunition.
Practical Applications: When to Use Each Cartridge
Choosing between the .22 Short and .22 LR depends entirely on the intended use.
.22 Short Applications:
- Target Practice (Close Range): The lower power makes it ideal for indoor ranges or very close-range outdoor plinking. The reduced recoil also makes it a good option for beginners.
- Small Game Hunting (Extremely Close Range): While not recommended for most game, the .22 Short might be suitable for close-range pest control on exceptionally small targets in highly controlled environments. This should only be attempted by experienced shooters aware of the limitations of the cartridge.
.22 Long Rifle Applications:
- Small Game Hunting: The .22 LR is the far superior choice for small game hunting, offering sufficient range and stopping power for squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals.
- Target Shooting: Its higher accuracy and greater range make it an excellent choice for various target shooting disciplines.
- Plunking: The .22 LR is incredibly versatile for casual shooting, offering good accuracy at moderate ranges.
- Self-Defense (Close Quarters Only): In an extreme close-quarters self-defense scenario, the .22 LR is a better choice than the .22 Short, though it's important to remember that other cartridges are generally more effective for self-defense.
Availability and Cost
Both .22 Short and .22 LR ammunition are widely available, with the .22 LR being significantly more common and often cheaper per round due to higher production volumes. Finding .22 Short ammunition may occasionally prove more difficult depending on your location and current market conditions.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
The .22 Short and .22 Long Rifle cartridges are both valuable rimfire options, each with its place. The .22 LR is the clear winner for most applications, thanks to its superior range, accuracy, and stopping power. The .22 Short is primarily suitable for very close-range plinking or limited pest control scenarios where minimal recoil and low cost are prioritized. Careful consideration of the intended use will ensure you select the appropriate cartridge for your needs.