Can You Shoot .22 Shorts in a .22 LR Revolver? The Short Answer and the Long Explanation
The short answer is: Generally, no. It's not recommended and can be dangerous.
While .22 Short and .22 Long Rifle (LR) cartridges look similar, key dimensional differences make firing .22 Shorts in a .22 LR revolver risky and potentially damaging to the firearm. Let's delve into the specifics:
Understanding the Cartridge Differences
The crucial difference lies in the cartridge case length. A .22 Short is significantly shorter than a .22 LR cartridge. This seemingly minor difference creates several problems:
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Insufficient Chamber Support: A .22 LR revolver's cylinder is designed to fully support the longer .22 LR cartridge. A shorter .22 Short cartridge may not be adequately supported within the chamber, leading to potential bullet misalignment or even case rupture.
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Increased Risk of Misfires or Squib Loads: The shorter case may not properly seat in the chamber, leading to incomplete ignition or a "squib load" – a round that fires but doesn't fully eject the bullet from the barrel. A squib load can cause a dangerous obstruction in the barrel, potentially leading to a catastrophic barrel failure upon the next shot.
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Damage to the Firing Pin: The firing pin might not strike the primer of a .22 Short with sufficient force due to the shorter cartridge's position relative to the firing pin. This could lead to misfires and increased wear on the firing pin.
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Potential for Damage to the Revolver: In some cases, a poorly seated .22 Short could cause damage to the cylinder or other internal components of the revolver. This is because the unsupported cartridge could bend, twist or even explode upon firing.
Why Take the Risk?
There's simply no practical advantage to attempting to fire .22 Shorts in a .22 LR revolver. .22 Shorts are generally less powerful and less common than .22 LR ammunition. The potential risks far outweigh any perceived benefits.
What to Do Instead
If you have a .22 LR revolver and only have .22 Short ammunition available, the best course of action is to:
- Find the correct ammunition: Purchase .22 LR ammunition. It's readily available at most sporting goods stores and gun shops.
- Use the correct firearm: If you happen to own a .22 Short revolver, use it accordingly.
Safety First
Always prioritize firearm safety. Understanding the specifications of your firearm and using the correct ammunition is paramount. Consult your firearm's owner's manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines. Improper use of firearms can lead to serious injury or death. If you have any doubts or uncertainties, seek advice from an experienced firearms professional.
