.22lr

.22 LR (Long Rifle) is one of the most popular and frequently used ammunition calibers in the world. Known for its versatility, low cost, and minimal recoil, it has become a staple in sports shooting, recreation, and hunting. But what exactly is behind this designation and why is .22 LR so popular?

In this article, we will take a closer look at the .22 LR caliber, its history, applications, advantages and disadvantages, and answer frequently asked questions. Whether you are a beginner shooter or an experienced gun enthusiast, this guide will help you better understand the .22 LR phenomenon.

What does .22 LR mean?

The designation ".22 LR" refers to the caliber of ammunition – .22 inches (5.6 mm) – and to the fact that it is a rimfire cartridge. "LR" stands for "Long Rifle", which distinguishes it from other, older .22 variants, such as .22 Short and .22 Long.

In short, .22 LR is simply a specific type of .22 caliber cartridge, designed for rifles (although it is also commonly used in pistols and revolvers).

History of the .22 LR caliber

The .22 LR caliber was introduced to the market in 1887 by J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company. It was created as a combination of the .22 Long cartridge with a lighter bullet, which gave better accuracy and range. It quickly gained popularity due to its low cost, low recoil and the availability of weapons in this caliber.

Since then, .22 LR has become one of the most commonly produced and used calibers in the world. It is used by both amateurs and professionals in various shooting disciplines and applications.

Application of .22 LR in shooting

.22 LR is widely used in various fields of shooting:

• Sports shooting: .22 LR is popular in competitions such as biathlon, precision and dynamic shooting. Low recoil and ammunition cost allow for long training sessions.
• Recreational shooting: It is an ideal caliber for learning to shoot for beginners. The small recoil makes it easier to master basic skills, and the low cost of ammunition allows for frequent training without straining the budget.
• Hunting: .22 LR is effective in hunting small game, such as rabbits, squirrels and birds. Due to the relatively low bullet energy, it is important to follow safety and hunting ethics rules.
• Training: Many shooters use .22 LR weapons to train basic shooting skills, such as aiming, trigger control and breathing. It is an economical way to improve technique without incurring the high costs of larger caliber ammunition.

Advantages and disadvantages of the .22 LR caliber

Like any caliber, .22 LR has its advantages and disadvantages. It is worth knowing them in order to consciously choose this caliber for your needs.

Advantages:

• Low ammunition cost: .22 LR is one of the cheapest calibers on the market, making it an ideal choice for people with limited budgets.
• Minimal recoil: Thanks to the small recoil, .22 LR is easy to master, even for beginner shooters.
• Availability of weapons: There is a wide selection of .22 LR weapons available on the market, from pistols and revolvers to rifles and shotguns.
• Versatility: .22 LR can be used for various purposes, from sports and recreational shooting to hunting small game.

Disadvantages:

• Low bullet energy: Compared to other calibers, .22 LR has relatively low bullet energy, which limits its effectiveness in hunting larger game.
• Sensitivity to weather conditions: Due to the low initial velocity of the bullet, .22 LR is more sensitive to wind and other weather conditions, which can affect the accuracy of the shot at longer distances.
• Jams: Rimfire ammunition is more prone to jams than centerfire ammunition. Choose good quality ammunition and regularly clean your weapon to minimize the risk of problems.

Weapons in .22 LR caliber – popular models

There are many models of weapons in .22 LR caliber available on the market. Here are a few popular examples:

• Rifles: Ruger 10/22, Marlin Model 60, Savage Mark II
• Pistols: Ruger Mark IV, Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory, Browning Buck Mark
• Revolvers: Smith & Wesson Model 617, Ruger Single-Six

It is also worth mentioning the .22 LR conversions to the AR-15 platform. They allow you to train on an "adult" platform using cheap ammunition. An example is the CMMG .22LR Conversion Kit.

Accessories for .22 LR weapons

Having the right accessories can significantly improve the comfort and efficiency of shooting with a .22 LR weapon. Here are a few useful accessories:

• Magazines: Additional magazines make it easier to quickly reload your weapon and allow for a longer shooting session.
• Optics: Mounting a scope or collimator can improve the accuracy of shots, especially at longer distances.
• Cleaning kit: Regular cleaning of the weapon is necessary to keep it in good condition and ensure reliability.
• Hearing protectors and ballistic glasses: Always protect your hearing and eyesight when shooting.
• Ammunition containers: Make it easier to store and transport ammunition.