History Of The .22lr

Published on June 6, 2020
Duration: 5:36

This video details the history and technical specifications of the .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) cartridge. It covers its invention by the Union Metallic Cartridge Company in 1884, its lineage from earlier rimfire cartridges like the .22 BB Cap, and its typical ballistic performance. The content also touches upon its effectiveness for small game hunting, its controversial use in self-defense, and its widespread popularity across various shooting disciplines and firearm platforms.

Quick Summary

The .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) is a rimfire cartridge invented in 1884 by the Union Metallic Cartridge Company. It features a .223-inch bullet diameter and typically uses 30-40 grain bullets traveling at 1000-1700 fps, generating 130-190 ft-lbs of energy. Its low cost, manageable recoil, and quiet operation make it ideal for small game hunting, target shooting, and training.

Chapters

  1. 00:21Introduction to the .22LR
  2. 00:41Invention and Origins
  3. 01:12.22 BB Cap and Early Rimfire
  4. 01:41Evolution to .22 Long Rifle
  5. 02:03Union Metallic Cartridge Company History
  6. 02:42.22LR Performance and Ballistics
  7. 03:02Applications: Hunting and Self-Defense
  8. 03:41Quiet Operation and Suppressed Use
  9. 03:57Cultural Impact and Popularity
  10. 04:28Military and Law Enforcement Use
  11. 04:46.22LR Conversions and Modern Firearms
  12. 05:07Enduring Popularity and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key technical specifications of the .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) cartridge?

The .22LR is a rimfire cartridge featuring a .223-inch bullet diameter, a straight case, and a rim diameter of .27/8 inches. Its overall length is approximately one inch, and it typically uses bullets weighing between 30 to 40 grains.

When and by whom was the .22LR cartridge invented?

The .22LR cartridge was invented and introduced in 1884 by the Union Metallic Cartridge Company, based in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Its development was influenced by earlier rimfire cartridges like the .22 BB Cap and .22 Short.

What is the typical ballistic performance of .22LR ammunition?

Typical .22LR ammunition propels 30-40 grain bullets at velocities ranging from 1000 to 1700 feet per second, producing 130 to 190 foot-pounds of energy. In rifles, it can exhibit a rise of about 2.7 inches at 50 yards and a drop of 10.8 inches at 150 yards.

What are the primary uses and applications for the .22LR cartridge?

The .22LR is widely used for small game hunting, target shooting, plinking, and training due to its low cost and manageable recoil. It's also utilized by some law enforcement agencies and military personnel for specific roles, and is popular for firearm conversion kits.

Why is the .22LR cartridge so popular and widely sold?

The .22LR's enduring popularity stems from its affordability, low recoil, and quiet operation, especially with subsonic rounds. It's accessible for new shooters and versatile for various shooting disciplines, leading to it outselling all other ammunition types combined.

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