Understanding the Differences Between .22 and .223 Diameter Bullets
The seemingly minor difference between ".22" and ".223" often leads to confusion, especially for those new to firearms. While both numbers refer to calibers—the diameter of the bullet—they represent distinct cartridges with significantly different applications and capabilities. This article will clarify the key distinctions between these two popular calibers.
Defining the Diameter: Not Just a Matter of .003 Inches
The core difference lies in the actual measurement. ".22" refers to a bullet diameter of approximately 0.224 inches. However, the .223 Remington (often shortened to .223) cartridge uses a bullet diameter of roughly 0.224 inches as well. The discrepancy isn't in the bullet itself but in the bore diameter of the rifle barrel. The .223 Remington barrel has a slightly larger diameter to accommodate the bullet's rifling and expansion during firing. This subtle difference in the barrel's internal dimensions is critical.
Key Differences Between .22 LR and .223 Remington
While the bullet diameters are nearly identical, the cartridges themselves are vastly different:
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Power and Velocity: The .223 Remington is significantly more powerful than any .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) cartridge. .22 LR rounds are generally low-velocity, low-power cartridges used for small game hunting, plinking, and target shooting. The .223 Remington, on the other hand, is a high-velocity, intermediate-power cartridge used for hunting larger game (depending on the bullet weight and type), self-defense, and military applications. This difference in power translates to significantly greater range and stopping power.
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Cartridge Case Size: The size and shape of the cartridge case differ greatly. The .22 LR uses a rimmed cartridge case, while the .223 Remington utilizes a rimless, bottlenecked case. This means they are not interchangeable in any firearm.
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Rifle vs. Pistol/Rifle: .22 LR is commonly found in both pistols and rifles, offering a wide variety of firearms to choose from. The .223 Remington is almost exclusively chambered in rifles.
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Applications: The applications for these calibers are distinct. .22 LR is best for target practice, small game hunting (such as rabbits or squirrels), and pest control. .223 Remington excels in hunting medium-sized game (deer, coyotes, depending on shot placement and bullet selection), self-defense, and long-range shooting. Military use of the .223 Remington (often referred to as 5.56x45mm NATO) is widespread.
Safety Considerations: Never Intermix Cartridges
It's crucial to remember that a .22 LR round should never be fired from a firearm chambered in .223 Remington, and vice versa. Attempting to do so could result in serious injury or death to the shooter and damage to the firearm. Always double-check your ammunition before loading and firing any firearm.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Caliber
Understanding the differences between the .22 and .223 diameters is fundamental for safe and effective firearm use. While the slight difference in bullet diameter might seem insignificant, it highlights the critical variations in cartridge size, power, and application. Choosing the correct caliber depends entirely on your intended use, from casual target shooting with a .22 LR pistol to long-range precision shooting with a .223 Remington rifle. Always prioritize safety and consult with experienced firearm professionals before handling any firearm.
