The Armed Citizen Podcast: Frank Miniter talks to Dan Compton, CCI Ammunition @federalpremiumammo

Published on April 30, 2026
Duration: 11:46

This podcast episode features Dan Compton of CCI Ammunition discussing new product offerings and industry trends. Key topics include the development and application of CCI's .22 Long Rifle Uppercut for personal defense, the resurgence of .22 Magnum, and advice for new gun owners on selecting appropriate ammunition. The discussion emphasizes the importance of reliability and understanding the difference between hollow point and ball ammunition for various shooting purposes.

Quick Summary

CCI Ammunition has developed the .22 Long Rifle Uppercut for personal defense, engineered to achieve reliable expansion despite the caliber's low velocity. Utilizing advanced techniques like structural plating and precise cuts, this round aims to maximize effectiveness. For optimal performance, a barrel length of 4 inches or more is recommended, and new shooters are advised to understand the difference between hollow point and ball ammunition for their intended use.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Introduction and CCI's 75th Anniversary
  2. 00:17New Product Offerings from CCI
  3. 00:37Development of the .22 Long Rifle Uppercut
  4. 01:12Technical Aspects of Uppercut Expansion
  5. 01:46Barrel Length Recommendations for Uppercut
  6. 02:06CCI's Entry into Personal Defense Ammunition
  7. 02:29Testing and Performance of .22 LR Uppercut
  8. 03:01Sales Performance and Demand for Uppercut
  9. 03:22Target Audience for .22 LR Ammunition
  10. 03:33CCI's Reputation for Reliability (Mini-Mags)
  11. 04:01New Blazer Hollow Point Line
  12. 04:28Ammunition Recommendations for New Shooters
  13. 05:13Market Research on New Gun Owners
  14. 05:54Importance of Training and Safety
  15. 06:08CCI .22 Magnum Uppercut Launch
  16. 06:19.22 Magnum Pistol Sales and Resurgence
  17. 06:4275th Anniversary Commemorative Mini-Mag
  18. 06:56Future Product Development Teaser
  19. 07:26Production Capacity and Market Demand
  20. 08:40Retail Associate Training
  21. 09:01Training on CCI Product History (Mini-Mag, Stinger)
  22. 09:53Explaining Ammunition Types (HP vs. FMJ)
  23. 10:30Differentiating Ammo for Target vs. Defense
  24. 10:38Matching Ammo to Firearm Systems
  25. 11:10Explaining Rimfire vs. Centerfire Ammunition
  26. 11:29Annual .22 Rimfire Production Volume
  27. 11:35Conclusion and Congratulations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CCI .22 Long Rifle Uppercut designed for?

The CCI .22 Long Rifle Uppercut is specifically designed for personal defense. It aims to achieve reliable expansion in a .22 LR hollow point, which is challenging due to the caliber's lower velocities, especially from shorter barrels.

What are the key features of the CCI .22 LR Uppercut's design?

The Uppercut utilizes advanced manufacturing techniques such as structural plating, varying thickness copper plating, and precise 'skyving' cuts. These features are engineered to ensure the bullet reliably expands upon impact, maximizing its effectiveness for self-defense.

What barrel length is recommended for the CCI .22 LR Uppercut?

For optimal performance and expansion of the CCI .22 LR Uppercut, a barrel length of 4 inches or longer is recommended. Shorter barrels, like those found on very small pocket revolvers, may not provide sufficient velocity for the bullet to expand as intended.

How does CCI approach training new gun owners about ammunition?

CCI focuses on educating new gun owners about the fundamental differences between ammunition types, such as hollow points for personal defense and ball/FMJ for target practice. They emphasize matching ammunition to the intended use and ensuring reliability with the specific firearm.

What is CCI celebrating and what new products are available?

CCI Ammunition is celebrating its 75th anniversary. New products include the .22 Long Rifle Uppercut for personal defense, a .22 Magnum Uppercut, and a new line of Blazer hollow point ammunition. A commemorative Mini-Mag with a throwback design is also planned.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from NRA

View all →