Forget 9mm?! Top 5 Rimfire Loads That Are Actually Deadly!

Published on April 3, 2025
Duration: 13:40

This video explores the effectiveness of rimfire cartridges for self-defense, particularly for recoil-sensitive individuals. It highlights five top rimfire loads, including CCI Velocitor, Winchester Varmint HE, Aguila Interceptor, Hornady Critical Defense (.22 WMR), and Speer Gold Dot (.22 WMR). The discussion emphasizes penetration over expansion for rimfire and provides real-world velocity and terminal performance data.

Quick Summary

Rimfire cartridges can be effective for self-defense, especially for recoil-sensitive individuals. Top loads include CCI Velocitor, Winchester Varmint HE, Aguila Interceptor (.22 LR), and Hornady Critical Defense, Speer Gold Dot (.22 WMR). These focus on penetration and reliable expansion from short barrels.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Rimfire for Self-Defense Overview
  2. 03:45CCI Velocitor 40gr CPHP Review
  3. 05:39Winchester Varmint HE 37gr SEG Review
  4. 07:27Aguila Interceptor 40gr CPSP Review
  5. 09:49Hornady Critical Defense .22 WMR FTX Review
  6. 11:33Speer Gold Dot .22 WMR Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Can rimfire ammunition be effective for self-defense?

Yes, rimfire cartridges can be effective for self-defense, especially for individuals sensitive to recoil or with limited grip strength. While centerfire rounds offer superior ballistics, certain .22 LR and .22 WMR loads like Speer Gold Dot and Hornady Critical Defense provide adequate penetration and expansion for personal protection.

What are the best .22 WMR loads for self-defense?

The Speer Gold Dot .22 WMR 40gr is highly recommended for its performance from short barrels, achieving significant expansion. Hornady Critical Defense .22 WMR 45gr FTX is another strong contender, designed to prevent clogging and ensure expansion.

How does CCI Velocitor perform for self-defense?

The CCI Velocitor 40gr CPHP is known for reliability and affordability. While its advertised velocity is high, real-world testing shows around 1050 FPS from a handgun, which may limit expansion but offers consistent ignition for self-defense use.

What is the advantage of Winchester Varmint HE ammunition?

The Winchester Varmint HE 37gr SEG utilizes a segmenting hollow point bullet. This design fragments upon impact, maximizing tissue damage even at lower velocities, making it a potentially effective option for self-defense where expansion might otherwise be a concern.

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