
At Gunner HQ in Sheffield, AL, our Rimfire Ammunition collection is perfect for training, plinking, and small game hunting. Rimfire ammo is known for its affordability and versatility, making it ideal for Single Shot Rifles and Semi Auto Rifles used in practice sessions. Many Handguns also rely on rimfire cartridges, making them popular among new shooters learning safe handling. Pair your rimfire ammunition with dependable Magazines to ensure consistent feeding, and use Spotting Scopes or Range Finders for improved accuracy. This category is also an affordable way to stay sharp between range days with Rifle Ammunition or Shotgun Shells. Whether used for target practice, small game hunts, or skill-building exercises, rimfire ammunition from Gunner HQ is a must-have for shooters in Sheffield, AL. Stock up online today.
At Gunner HQ, located in Sheffield, Alabama, our Rimfire Ammunition collection is built for training, plinking, and small game hunting. Rimfire cartridges are affordable, versatile, and widely available, making them a favorite for new shooters and seasoned marksmen alike. Commonly used in Single Shot Rifles, Semi-Auto Rifles, and even certain Handguns, rimfire ammunition provides low recoil and approachable shooting experiences.
Pair your rimfire ammo with Magazines for reliable feeding and add Spotting Scopes or Range Finders for improved accuracy. Rimfire ammunition is an excellent choice for practice days, hunting small game, or skill-building between trips with centerfire rifle ammunition and Shotgun Shells.
Rimfire ammunition refers to cartridges where the primer is built into the rim of the case. When the firing pin strikes the rim, it ignites the powder inside and launches the bullet. Unlike centerfire cartridges, which have a separate primer in the middle of the case, rimfire designs are lightweight and cost-effective. Rimfire ammo is especially popular for training, small game hunting, and target practice because it offers reliable performance at a lower price point.
Although rimfire cartridges differ in design from centerfire, they share the same four basic components:
These parts combine to create a round that is affordable, lightweight, and effective for its role.
The most widely used rimfire caliber, .22 LR is trusted for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting. Its low cost and mild recoil make it perfect for beginners and high-volume training.
.22 WMR, or Winchester Magnum Rimfire, delivers more power and longer range than .22 LR. It is an excellent choice for varmints, predators, and small game hunting where additional stopping power is needed.
The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) is known for its flat trajectory and accuracy. With higher velocity than .22 LR, it is favored for small game and varmint control at extended ranges.
Other rimfire calibers, such as .22 Short and .22 CB, are still used for low-noise training or pest control. These niche cartridges remain valuable for shooters who want quiet performance in specific applications.
It’s important to remember that the bullet is not the same as the entire cartridge. Rimfire ammunition includes the case, rim primer, powder, and bullet, while the bullet is only the projectile portion. Understanding this difference helps shooters shop more effectively and choose rounds designed for their specific firearm and purpose.
FMJ rimfire bullets are common in .22 LR and .22 WMR cartridges. They are affordable, cycle smoothly, and ideal for target shooting or plinking.
HP rimfire bullets expand on impact, making them effective for small game and varmint hunting. .22 LR and .17 HMR hollow points are popular among hunters for reliable terminal performance.
SP bullets in rimfire calibers offer controlled expansion with deeper penetration. They are less common than FMJ or HP but remain useful in hunting scenarios where clean penetration is needed.
Because rimfire casings are thinner than centerfire, proper storage is especially important. Keep rimfire ammo in a cool, dry location away from heat and humidity. Use sealed containers or ammo cans with desiccants to prevent corrosion. With proper storage, rimfire cartridges can last for decades and remain dependable.
We stock rimfire cartridges from leading brands such as CCI, Federal Ammunition, Winchester, Remington, and Hornady. CCI Mini-Mag and Stinger loads are some of the most popular .22 LR rounds for reliability and accuracy. Federal and Winchester offer affordable bulk options, while Hornady leads the way with premium rimfire rounds like the .17 HMR. With these trusted names, Gunner HQ ensures shooters always have access to dependable rimfire ammo.
.22 LR is the top choice for training new shooters. Its low recoil and cost make it accessible for high-volume shooting sessions, helping beginners learn fundamentals without intimidation.
Hunters rely on .22 WMR and .17 HMR for varmints and small game. These calibers provide enough velocity and energy for ethical results while maintaining accuracy over longer distances.
FMJ rimfire rounds are excellent for range sessions and plinking. Competitive shooters also use match-grade .22 LR for rimfire competitions, where accuracy and consistency are crucial.
Start by matching the caliber stamped on your firearm’s barrel. For practice, FMJ .22 LR rounds are the most affordable and reliable. For hunting, choose hollow point rimfire rounds designed to expand on impact. If you need longer-range precision, .17 HMR provides flat-shooting accuracy. Pair your rimfire ammunition with quality Magazines and optics for the best results.
At Gunner HQ in Sheffield, Alabama, we stock rimfire ammunition for every purpose, from training new shooters to hunting varmints. With affordable pricing, trusted brands, and expert advice, our goal is to provide every shooter with cartridges they can count on. Shop rimfire ammunition online today at Gunner HQ and stay ready for your next trip to the range or field.
Why is rimfire ammunition cheaper than centerfire?
At Gunner HQ, we explain that rimfire ammunition is cheaper because of its thin-walled cases and integrated primer design, which makes production simpler. It uses less material and cannot be reloaded, keeping costs low compared to centerfire cartridges.
Can rimfire ammunition be reloaded?
No, rimfire cartridges cannot be reloaded. The primer compound is built into the rim of the case and is crushed when fired, making it impossible to reuse. Gunner HQ recommends purchasing bulk rimfire ammo for training and hunting instead of reloading.
Is rimfire ammunition reliable for self-defense?
While rimfire ammo is excellent for training and small game hunting, Gunner HQ advises against relying on it for self-defense. Centerfire cartridges are far more reliable and powerful, making them the preferred choice for defensive situations.
What firearms use rimfire ammunition besides rifles?
Many handguns, including compact pistols and revolvers, are chambered in rimfire calibers like .22 LR. At Gunner HQ, we often recommend rimfire handguns for beginners to practice fundamentals before moving to larger calibers.
Why do some shooters prefer rimfire for practice?
Shooters choose rimfire for practice because it offers low recoil, less noise, and affordable prices. At Gunner HQ, we suggest rimfire ammo for anyone looking to improve marksmanship or introduce new shooters to safe firearm handling without the intimidation of larger calibers.