If you’ve spent any time around firearms, you’ve probably heard the terms rimfire and centerfire tossed around. But what exactly do they mean? Both refer to the type of ammunition you’re using, and understanding the difference can give you a much better idea of how your firearm works. Each type has its own strengths, weaknesses, and history, so let’s dive into what sets them apart.
The Basics: What Is Rimfire?

Rimfire ammunition is named for its unique primer placement. In this type of cartridge, the primer – the substance that ignites the gunpowder—sits in the rim of the casing. When the gun’s firing pin strikes the rim, it crushes the primer, causing the cartridge to fire. Rimfire rounds are commonly associated with lower-pressure cartridges like the popular .22 caliber.
What About Centerfire?

As the name suggests, centerfire cartridges place the primer right in the center of the base of the casing. When the firing pin strikes the middle, it ignites the primer, which in turn lights up the gunpowder and sends the bullet down the barrel. This design can handle higher pressures, making it the go-to choice for military, police, and self-defense use.
A Look at the History of Rimfire

Rimfire technology has been around since the mid-1800s. One of the earliest examples is the .22 caliber, which remains popular to this day. Rimfire ammunition was simpler to produce and cheaper, which made it a hit for early firearms. In fact, the first rimfire cartridge was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1857 with their .22 Short, used in their revolvers during the American Civil War.
Centerfire’s Rise to Popularity

Centerfire ammunition came into the picture not long after rimfire, and by the late 1800s, it became the dominant ammunition type. This shift occurred because centerfire cartridges could withstand higher pressures, allowing for more powerful rounds. As firearms technology advanced, centerfire cartridges became the standard for hunting, military, and police firearms due to their reliability and power.
Why Rimfire Is Still Relevant

You might wonder why rimfire ammo is still used if centerfire is so much more powerful. The answer lies in rimfire’s unique strengths. Rimfire cartridges are generally cheaper to manufacture, and because they generate less pressure, they’re perfect for smaller caliber firearms. For those interested in small game hunting or target shooting, rimfire offers a low-cost, low-recoil option that’s easy on both your shoulder and your wallet.
Centerfire’s Reliability Advantage

One of the key reasons shooters prefer centerfire ammunition is its reliability. The centralized primer in centerfire cartridges means that they are far less likely to misfire compared to rimfire. In fact, rimfire rounds are more prone to fail-to-fire issues due to their design, as the primer must be spread across the entire rim. With centerfire, the single strike to the middle offers a more dependable firing mechanism.
Rimfire for Beginners and Training

Rimfire cartridges, particularly the .22LR, are often recommended for beginners. The reduced recoil and lower noise level make them less intimidating for new shooters. Plus, they’re great for training because they cost much less than centerfire ammunition. Many firearm manufacturers even produce rimfire variants of popular guns like the AR-15 for cheaper practice sessions.
Centerfire for Power and Versatility

Centerfire ammunition dominates the self-defense and hunting markets. With higher pressures and more powerful rounds, centerfire cartridges are capable of handling big game hunting and protecting yourself in life-threatening situations. Common centerfire calibers include 9mm, .45 ACP, and .223, all of which offer a range of options depending on your firearm and shooting needs.
The Reloading Factor

Another big advantage of centerfire ammunition is its reloadability. Since the primer is a separate component, once a centerfire casing is fired, it can be reloaded and used again by simply replacing the primer, powder, and bullet. Rimfire cartridges, however, cannot be reloaded due to their one-piece design, making them a single-use option.
When Rimfire Falls Short

While rimfire ammo is great for certain applications, it does have its limitations. Because of the lower pressures, it’s not ideal for long-range shooting or situations where stopping power is crucial. Rimfire rounds are also not known for their reliability in extreme conditions. If you’re looking for something for self-defense or big-game hunting, centerfire is usually the way to go.
Centerfire for Precision

For long-distance shooting, centerfire cartridges shine. Their higher velocity and consistent ignition make them more accurate at longer ranges. If you’re aiming to hit targets several hundred yards away, a centerfire cartridge like the .308 or .30-06 is a much better choice than any rimfire round.
Choosing the Right Ammo for Your Needs

So, which type of ammo should you choose – rimfire or centerfire? It all comes down to what you need it for. If you’re just plinking around in your backyard or looking to introduce someone to firearms, a rimfire gun like a .22 is perfect. But for self-defense, hunting, or any situation where reliability and power are essential, centerfire is the superior choice.
Both Have Their Place

In the end, both rimfire and centerfire ammunition play important roles in the shooting world. Rimfire is affordable, great for beginners, and perfect for small game hunting or training. Centerfire, with its power and reliability, is the gold standard for self-defense, law enforcement, and big-game hunting. Knowing the differences between these two types of ammo will help you make better choices for your shooting adventures.

Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.