6 Shocking Facts About the .22 Short They Don’t Want You to Know!

Published on February 26, 2026
Duration: 11:06

This video debunks common misconceptions about the .22 Short cartridge, presenting it as a more capable round than often perceived. It highlights its historical significance as an early self-defense cartridge and its continued practical applications in specific roles, such as small-game hunting and plinking, due to its mild recoil and affordability. The discussion includes performance data, emphasizing its penetration capabilities.

Quick Summary

The .22 Short cartridge, introduced in 1857, is more capable than commonly believed. High-velocity variants exceed 1000 FPS and achieve 8-9 inches of penetration in ballistic gel, making it suitable for plinking and small-game hunting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00.22 Short Cartridge Misconceptions
  2. 00:11Introduction to .22 Short Ammunition
  3. 00:33The Reputation of .22 Short
  4. 00:48.22 Short Origins and History
  5. 01:18Concealability and Early Acceptance
  6. 01:31.22 LR's Negative Effects
  7. 01:57.22 Short Velocity and Penetration
  8. 02:15.22 Short Performance in Gel
  9. 03:00.22 Short's Penetration Successes
  10. 03:36.22 Short Real-World Destruction
  11. 03:59.22 Short and Materials' Destruction
  12. 05:13The .22 Short's Historical Context
  13. 06:21.22 Short in Civilian Life
  14. 07:16The .22 Short's Proven Evolution
  15. 08:12.22 Short Olympic Standards
  16. 08:47Why .22 Short Remains Practical
  17. 09:11Understanding the. 22 Short
  18. 09:36Deep Penetration of .22 Shorts
  19. 10:07.22 Short Uses To This Day

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the .22 Short cartridge still relevant today?

Yes, the .22 Short remains relevant for specific applications such as plinking, small-game hunting where minimal meat damage is desired, and in historical firearms. Its mild recoil and affordability make it practical for certain roles.

What are the historical origins of the .22 Short?

The .22 Short was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1857. It was initially designed as a self-defense cartridge and was popular due to the concealability and non-intimidating nature of firearms chambered for it.

How does the .22 Short perform in terms of penetration?

Contrary to popular belief, the .22 Short can achieve significant penetration. High-velocity variants can exceed 1000 FPS and demonstrate 8-9 inches of penetration in ballistic gel, proving more capable than often assumed.

Why is the .22 Short often underestimated?

The .22 Short is often underestimated because it's mistakenly compared to more powerful cartridges like the 9mm. Its reputation suffered after the introduction of the .22 Long Rifle, leading to it being associated with less capable ammunition.

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