Why .22 LR Is the MOST DANGEROUS Round in U.S - Shocking truth!

Published on August 18, 2025
Duration: 11:39

This video, presented by Ted from Line45, reveals the often-underestimated danger of the .22 LR cartridge in criminal applications. It details how its low cost, quiet operation, concealability, and reliability in blowback pistols make it a preferred choice for illicit activities. The content highlights that shot placement and the round's behavior in tissue, rather than raw power, are key to its effectiveness in real-world violence, supported by ATF data and anecdotal evidence from law enforcement.

Quick Summary

The .22 LR is a dangerous tool for criminals due to its low cost, quiet operation, and ease of concealment. It can be fired from small, easily hidden pistols and is reliable even in blowback designs, making it ideal for avoiding detection during illicit activities. Its low velocity allows it to tumble and ricochet within soft tissue, and criminals often aim for vital areas.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Misconception of .22 LR
  2. 00:55ATF Data: .22 LR in Crime Statistics
  3. 01:34Availability and Accessibility of .22 LR
  4. 02:28.22 LR's Criminal Appeal: Cheap, Quiet, Concealable
  5. 02:49Concealable Firearms: Ruger SR22 & Beretta Bobcat
  6. 03:17Reliability in Blowback Pistols and Suppression
  7. 03:57The Chilling Effect of Suppressed .22 LR
  8. 04:16Suppressor Effectiveness with .22 LR
  9. 04:43Subsonic Ammunition and .22 LR
  10. 04:52Contact Shots and Blowback Pistol Reliability
  11. 05:08Historical Example: Reagan Assassination Attempt
  12. 05:30Trauma Surgeon's Perspective: Shot Placement Over Power
  13. 05:52Case Study: Trooper Mark Coats and the .22 LR
  14. 06:18.22 LR Ballistics: Bouncing and Ricocheting
  15. 06:30Low Velocity's Role in Wound Ballistics
  16. 06:48Criminal Aiming Strategies with .22 LR
  17. 06:56Seized Guns: The Hidden History of .22 LR
  18. 07:14Law Enforcement Reports: .22 LR in Close Contact
  19. 07:25Concealment Locations of .22 LR Firearms
  20. 07:34Modifications: Threaded Barrels and Crude Suppressors
  21. 07:46Intentional Criminal Use of .22 LR
  22. 07:50Criminal Applications: Hits, Intimidation, Executions
  23. 08:04.22 LR's Advantage: No Brass, Low Sound
  24. 08:13Quiet Elimination and Message Sending
  25. 08:32Critique of ATF Trace Data and Its Implications
  26. 09:59Homicide Investigator's Respect for .22 LR
  27. 10:12.22 LR vs. Larger Calibers: Stealth vs. Force
  28. 10:24Common Stories from Law Enforcement Departments
  29. 10:33Anatomical Knowledge and .22 LR Effectiveness
  30. 10:45The Chilling Reality of a Quiet .22 LR Shot
  31. 10:58Conclusion: The Enduring Threat of .22 LR
  32. 11:16Final Thoughts: .22 LR's Role in Deadly Work

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the .22 LR considered dangerous by criminals?

The .22 LR is favored by criminals due to its low cost, quiet operation, and ease of concealment. It can be fired from small, easily hidden pistols and is reliable even in blowback designs, making it ideal for avoiding detection during illicit activities.

How does the .22 LR perform ballistically in the human body?

While not powerful, the .22 LR's low velocity allows it to tumble and ricochet within soft tissue, creating unpredictable wound channels. Shot placement is critical, and criminals often aim for vital areas like the head and neck.

Is the .22 LR effective when suppressed?

Yes, the .22 LR is highly effective when suppressed. Much of its ammunition is naturally subsonic, meaning it travels below the speed of sound, significantly reducing the audible report and making it even quieter.

What do ATF trace data reveal about .22 LR crime guns?

ATF trace data consistently shows the .22 LR as a significant caliber among crime guns. In recent years, .22 LR pistols have ranked third in traced crime guns, behind only 9mm and .40 S&W, indicating its widespread use.

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