This question frequently pops up among firearm enthusiasts: Can you shoot .22 Short cartridges from a firearm chambered for .22 Long Rifle? The short answer is generally no, and attempting to do so can be dangerous. This article delves into the reasons why, exploring the differences between these cartridges and highlighting the safety risks involved.
Understanding .22 Short vs. .22 Long Rifle Cartridges
The .22 Short and .22 Long Rifle (LR) cartridges, while sharing a similar diameter, possess crucial distinctions that make them incompatible in most .22 LR firearms:
Cartridge Dimensions: A Key Difference
| Feature | .22 Short | .22 Long Rifle |
|---|---|---|
| Case Length | Approximately 0.56 inch | Approximately 0.78 inch |
| Overall Length | Varies depending on bullet | Varies depending on bullet |
| Powder Charge | Significantly Less | Significantly More |
The most significant difference lies in their case length. The .22 LR cartridge is considerably longer than the .22 Short. This difference creates a critical safety issue when attempting to fire a .22 Short in a .22 LR chamber.
Chamber Design and Function
A .22 LR firearm's chamber is specifically designed to accommodate the longer .22 LR cartridge. When a shorter .22 Short is inserted, it sits too far back in the chamber. This improper seating can lead to several problems:
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Misfires: The firing pin may not strike the primer correctly, resulting in a misfire. This can be extremely dangerous as you might think the gun has malfunctioned, causing you to re-attempt firing which could lead to a catastrophic failure when the round does finally fire.
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Bullet Setback: The bullet may be pushed back into the case, potentially damaging the primer and causing a dangerous increase in pressure which will likely cause failure of the weapon.
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Squib Loads: A squib load occurs when the powder charge fails to ignite or the bullet doesn't fully travel down the barrel. This can cause dangerous pressure build up when a subsequent round is loaded and fired.
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Chamber Damage: Repeated attempts to fire .22 Shorts from a .22 LR chamber can potentially damage the firearm's chamber, leading to malfunctions and increasing the risk of injury.
Safety Considerations: Why You Shouldn't Do It
Attempting to fire a .22 Short from a .22 LR firearm is inherently unsafe and should never be attempted. The potential consequences include:
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Gun Damage: The firearm could be damaged beyond repair, rendering it unsafe.
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Personal Injury: Improper firing can lead to serious injuries from exploding cases, ricocheting projectiles, or malfunctions.
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Fatal Accidents: In the worst-case scenario, attempting to shoot .22 Shorts from a .22 LR firearm can result in death.
Exceptions: Older Firearms
Some older firearms designed to fire .22 Shorts, .22 Longs, and .22 LR might seem to allow for interchangeability. However, even in these cases, consistent and safe firing is not guaranteed, and care should be taken to ensure you are using the correct ammo for the firearm. Always check the firearm's manual and ensure you understand its specifications before firing any ammunition.
Conclusion: Stick to the Right Ammunition
The risks associated with firing .22 Shorts in a .22 LR chamber far outweigh any potential benefits. Always use the correct ammunition specified for your firearm. Refer to your firearm's owner's manual for specific ammunition recommendations. Ignoring this advice could lead to serious injury or death. Safety should always be the top priority when handling firearms. If you have any doubts about your firearm's compatibility with a particular cartridge type, consult a qualified gunsmith.