Choosing the right ammunition can make all the difference in your shooting experience. For rimfire enthusiasts, the .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) is a ubiquitous choice, but the less-common .22 Long (.22 Long) also holds a place in history and continues to have niche applications. This detailed comparison will delve into the key differences between these two cartridges, helping you understand which one best suits your needs.
Caliber Overview: .22 Long vs. .22 LR
Both cartridges share a common ancestor, the .22 Short, but have evolved along distinct paths. The .22 Long emerged as a slightly more powerful variant, and subsequently, the .22 LR became the dominant force, boasting greater velocity and energy.
.22 Long: A Blast from the Past
The .22 Long cartridge, introduced in the late 19th century, offers a relatively modest performance compared to modern cartridges. Its characteristics include:
- Lower Velocity: Considerably slower than the .22 LR, resulting in less range and flatter trajectory.
- Reduced Power: Delivers less energy upon impact compared to its successor.
- Limited Availability: Not as readily available as .22 LR ammunition.
- Common Use: Primarily used in older firearms and sometimes for target practice at shorter ranges. Its lighter recoil makes it suitable for beginners.
.22 Long Rifle: The Industry Standard
The .22 LR, developed as an improvement over the .22 Long, reigns supreme in the rimfire world. Its notable features include:
- Higher Velocity: Significantly faster than the .22 Long, leading to increased range and accuracy.
- Greater Energy: Packs a more substantial punch, making it effective for small game hunting and pest control.
- Wide Availability: Readily available in various bullet weights, types (hollow point, round nose, etc.), and manufacturers.
- Versatile Applications: Used for target shooting, plinking, small game hunting, and self-defense (although not the primary choice for self-defense).
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | .22 Long | .22 Long Rifle (LR) |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity | Lower | Higher |
| Energy | Lower | Higher |
| Range | Shorter | Longer |
| Accuracy | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Availability | Limited | Widely Available |
| Cost | Often slightly cheaper | Usually slightly more expensive |
| Recoil | Very Low | Low |
| Applications | Older firearms, target practice | Target shooting, small game hunting, plinking |
Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between .22 Long and .22 LR hinges largely on the firearm and intended use:
- .22 Long: Stick to this cartridge only if your firearm explicitly states it as a suitable round. Its limitations in range and power make it less versatile for most modern shooting applications.
- .22 Long Rifle: The clear winner for most applications. Its versatility, accuracy, and readily available ammunition make it a superior choice for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting.
Conclusion
While the .22 Long holds a place in firearms history, the .22 Long Rifle is the undisputed champion of rimfire cartridges. Its superior performance, widespread availability, and versatility cement its position as the go-to choice for shooters of all experience levels. Always ensure your firearm is compatible with the chosen ammunition before firing. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling.
