.22 LR for Semi-Automatics
Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to go over
.22 LR for semi-automatics. The .22 LR is one of the most popular calibers in circulation, often being the first caliber adopted by new shooters. Often times, these new shooters employ the caliber in a semi-automatic pistol or rifle. We are going to go over the reliability of
.22 LR ammo in semi-automatic platforms today. Additionally, we will touch on variables and factors contributing to reliability, efficient function, and other considerations. Without further ado, let’s talk about .22 LR for semi-automatics.
What is .22 LR?
The
.22 Long Rifle, often abbreviated as
.22 LR, is a long-standing rimfire cartridge which has persisted for well over a century. Initially introduced in 1887 by J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company, the .22 LR was based on the earlier .22 Long cartridge. Notably, the .22 LR is suitable for use in both pistols and rifles, making it versatile and able to be utilized by a wide range of firearms. Additionally, the cartridge often operates at velocities conducive to reliable function in semi-automatic firearms. This trait is notable as earlier rimfire cartridges lacked the ability to reliably cycle semi-automatic firearms.
What Do We Mean by Semi-Automatics?
When we refer to semi-automatics in this blog, we are specifically talking about autoloading rimfire firearms. These types of firearms typically come in the form of semi-automatic pistols and rifles. Semi-automatic rimfire firearms in
.22 LR come in many shapes, sizes, and configurations. Pistol offerings span traditional semi-automatic designs with standard slides and unique offerings such as Ruger Mk IV and Kel-Tec CP-33 handguns with internal bolts. Rifles encompass everything from classical 10/22 designs to rimfire versions of popular firearm designs mirroring AR-15s and MP5s.
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Why Doesn’t All .22 LR Work Well in Semi-Automatics?
When
.22 LR ammunition fails to function reliably in semi-automatic firearms, it generally is due to the fact that a loading may lack the force to cycle the action. Some firearms may have heavier bolts or slides which require more impulse to reliably cycle. In terms of achieving reliable function with semi-automatic firearms,
.22 LR loadings typically need to have higher velocities. Of course, there are some issues with reliability inherent to the rimfire nature of the cartridge.
Some .22 LR
ammunition can require multiple strikes to ignite or end up being duds altogether. In some cases, rimfire firing pins may not always reliably ignite the priming compound found within .22 LR rims. These often-fragile firing pins can be worn or even broken after excessive dry firing or regular use. In short, there are a number of factors which can lead to .22 LR not working with semi-automatics. While some of these issues are firearm-centric, others can be related to ammunition and revolve around factors such as velocity and other aspects.
Velocity is a Key Factor
If a loading is too slow or produces a weak impulse, it may fail to eject spent casings and pick up subsequent rounds. Low velocity loadings can generally have issues cycling in some semi-automatic firearms. These types of loadings can often be found in the form of target loads or in specialty subsonic loadings. Put simply, if a loading has high velocities, it will impart more force and impulse on the action of the firearm. This helps to ensure reliable and consistent cycling of semi-automatic bolts and slides. For optimal performance in a wide range of firearms, shooters should seek out high velocity
.22 LR ammunition.
Some Semi-Automatics are Pickier than Others
Shooters have also found that some semi-automatics are pickier than others when it comes to reliable function with
.22 LR ammo. This is to say that some firearms may function with a wider range of loadings than others. Some semi-automatic firearms may function with everything from standard velocity loadings to high velocity loadings. Others may choke with standard velocity loadings and require a steady diet of high velocity loadings. Some firearms may prefer specific projectile weights while others are more accommodating. This can also be true for certain grain weights and projectile types as well. One should ultimately try out a variety of
ammunition to determine which specific loadings are best suited for their firearm of choice.
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What About Plated Bullets?
Plated bullets may be worth considering if one intends on shooting a semi-automatic
.22 LR firearm frequently. Loadings with copper plating and jacketing are cleaner than their exposed lead counterparts. This means that plated loadings such as copper plated hollow points will run cleaner than lead round nose offerings will. By encapsulating lead projectiles, less lead is deposited into the action and bore of a firearm and fouling as a whole is reduced. Cleaner firearms tend to run better than dirty firearms. In short, if one intends on shooting a
.22 LR semi-automatic frequently, they should employ plated bullets.
Are .22 LR Loadings for Semi-Automatic Use Hard to Find?
Put plainly, one will not need to go out of their way to find
.22 LR ammo optimal for semi-automatic use. Often times, shooters can encounter specifically marked
ammunition for semi-automatic use. A notable example of such a loading comes in the form of
Federal Automatch loadings. Of course, there are many loadings without specific branding and verbiage which are more than adequate for semi-automatic use. Notable examples include
CCI Stingers,
CCI Mini-Mags,
Remington Thunderbolt, and many
Aguila Super Extra Loadings. Specialized offerings and appropriate offerings can be had in
bulk .22 LR ammo forms such as case quantities and bricks.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, for optimal performance and reliability one should employ high velocity and consistent
.22 LR ammo in their semi-automatic firearm of choice. While the autoloading
.22 LR firearms of today are certainly becoming more and more reliable, there is always a chance for failure with
.22 LR ammunition. One can minimize this chance by employing quality
ammunition that travels at high velocities. By doing so, one can ensure long range sessions and reliable function. Of course, one should sample a variety of loadings to find the best loading for their use cases and host firearm. We here at True Shot Ammo carry a wide range of
ammo for sale. Our inventory of
ammo spans popular calibers such as .22 LR,
9mm,
.223, and
12 gauge to name a few. Whether you want to
buy .22 LR ammo or
purchase ammo of a different type, we have you covered. As always, happy shooting.
