CCI 22LR Shotshell VS Federal 22LR Bird Shot #12 .22 LR Ammo Test & Review

Published on September 8, 2018
Duration: 18:07

This review by Buckeye Ballistics compares CCI 22LR Shotshell and Federal 22LR Bird Shot, detailing their specifications, performance in a Ruger 10/22, and effectiveness for pest control. The expert analysis highlights differences in extraction reliability, acoustic output, and pattern density, offering practical insights for choosing the right .22 LR shotshell ammunition.

Quick Summary

Buckeye Ballistics tested CCI 22LR Shotshell and Federal 22LR Bird Shot, finding neither reliably cycles a Ruger 10/22. CCI is quieter with better extraction, while Federal offers a tighter pattern at very close range (under 10 feet) but is louder and prone to extraction issues. Both are best suited for close-range pest control.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Specs
  2. 01:18Intended Use Cases
  3. 02:02Firearm Compatibility Issues
  4. 03:507-Yard Grouping Test
  5. 05:108-Foot Effective Range Test
  6. 07:10Acoustic Comparison
  7. 11:20Penetration on Wood and Apples
  8. 16:05Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between CCI 22LR Shotshell and Federal 22LR Bird Shot?

CCI 22LR Shotshells contain 31 grains of #12 shot at 1000 FPS and use a plastic cup, offering quieter operation and better extraction in semi-autos. Federal 22LR Bird Shot has 25 grains of #12 shot at 1000 FPS with a crimped metal tip, is louder, and can have extraction issues, but offers a tighter pattern at very close range.

Are .22 LR shotshells effective for pest control?

Yes, .22 LR shotshells are effective for close-range pest control (mice, rats, insects) where a wide pattern is needed to hit small, fast targets without over-penetrating and damaging structures. They are most effective under 10 feet due to pattern spread.

Will .22 LR shotshells reliably cycle a semi-automatic rifle like the Ruger 10/22?

No, testing indicates that neither CCI nor Federal .22 LR shotshells have sufficient power to reliably cycle the action of a Ruger 10/22. Federal rounds are particularly prone to extraction failures, while CCI extracts more reliably but still may not cycle the action.

What is the effective range for .22 LR shotshell ammunition?

The effective range for .22 LR shotshells is very short, typically under 10 feet. At 7 yards, the pattern spread is excessively wide (3-4 feet), making accurate targeting impossible. At 8 feet, the pattern becomes much tighter and more suitable for pest control.

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