GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The .22 caliber bullet, commonly used in the .22 LR cartridge, was introduced in the mid-19th century. Designed for light recoil and affordability, .22 bullets are ideal for target practice and small game hunting. Today, they remain a top choice among new gun owners and seasoned marksmen alike for their low cost and widespread compatibility.

Why It's a Top Choice

Extremely low recoil for beginner-friendly shooting
Very affordable and widely available
Compatible with rifles and handguns
Excellent for small game and backyard plinking
Reliable feeding in most semi-auto platforms

Key Variants

.22 LR Hollow Point

Great for small game hunting with controlled expansion for quick stops.

.22 LR Round Nose

Classic target and training choice known for reliable cycling and consistent accuracy.

.22 LR Subsonic

Minimized noise signature, ideal for suppressed firearms and quiet practice.

.22 Short

Compact cartridge compatible with some older rifles and revolvers, useful in target applications.

.22 WMR

Higher velocity variant offering increased range and terminal performance over .22 LR.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.22 Bullets	9mm	5.56 NATO
MSRP (50 rounds)	$4–$8	$15–$25	$20–$30
Weight	~40 gr	~115 gr	~55 gr
Velocity (fps)	1,070–1,600	1,100–1,300	3,000+
Energy (ft-lb)	90–160	300–400	1,200–1,300
Best Use	Training, plinking	Self-defense	Duty, range
Notable Con	Limited stopping power	More recoil	Higher cost

Best Use Cases

Target and precision practice
Small game and varmint hunting
First-time shooter training
Plinking and backyard shooting
Cost-conscious range sessions

FAQs

What is the best use for .22 bullets?

They're ideal for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting due to low recoil and noise.

Can I use .22 bullets for self-defense?

While possible, .22 LR has limited stopping power compared to centerfire options like 9mm.

How does .22 compare to 9mm in cost?

.22 LR is significantly cheaper, often costing one-third or less per round than 9mm.

22 BULLETS for Sale