Can You Shoot .22 Shorts Out of a .22 LR? The Short Answer and the Longer Explanation
The short answer is: Generally, no, you should not shoot .22 Short cartridges from a firearm chambered for .22 Long Rifle ammunition.
While both cartridges share the same diameter (.22 caliber), the key difference lies in their overall length. A .22 LR cartridge is significantly longer than a .22 Short. Attempting to fire a .22 Short in a .22 LR firearm can lead to several dangerous and potentially damaging outcomes:
Potential Problems and Dangers:
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Misfire/Incomplete Ignition: The shorter .22 Short cartridge might not fully seat in the .22 LR chamber. This can result in a misfire, where the primer doesn't ignite the powder, leaving a live round in the chamber. This is extremely hazardous.
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Bullet Obstruction: Even if the round does fire, the shorter cartridge case might not fully extract. This can create a dangerous obstruction in the chamber, preventing the next round from chambering or causing a catastrophic malfunction during firing.
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Damage to the Firearm: The improper seating of the .22 Short can exert excessive pressure on the firearm's components. This added pressure can damage the firing pin, breach face, or even cause the barrel to burst, leading to serious injury or firearm destruction.
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Inaccurate Shooting: If, by some chance, a .22 Short does fire in a .22 LR chamber, the bullet will likely strike the rifling at an incorrect angle. This will dramatically reduce accuracy and potentially damage the firearm.
Why the Risk Isn't Worth It:
The slight cost savings from using .22 Shorts (if you even can find them) is absolutely dwarfed by the potential for injury or damage. .22 LR ammunition is widely available and relatively inexpensive, making the risk of using .22 Shorts in an incompatible firearm simply not worthwhile.
Understanding Cartridge Dimensions:
The differences in cartridge length are crucial. The longer .22 Long Rifle cartridge is designed to provide the correct amount of pressure and force within the longer barrel of a .22 LR firearm. The shorter .22 Short is designed for a different firearm entirely and has a smaller powder charge, resulting in lower pressure. Using a cartridge not designed for your weapon is a dangerous practice that should be avoided at all costs.
Always Check Your Ammunition and Firearm:
Before you even think about firing a round, meticulously double-check that the ammunition you're using is the correct caliber and type for your firearm. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual for specific ammunition recommendations. Responsible gun ownership involves safety first.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always prioritize firearm safety and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations regarding firearm handling and usage. Consult with experienced firearms professionals for further guidance.
