Is a .22 LR as Useless for Defense as People Say? Here’s What I Found Out.

The .22 LR is a caliber that almost every shooter has fired at some point. It’s cheap, widely available, and incredibly easy to shoot. But the .22 LR is usually dismissed outright when the conversation shifts to self-defense. Critics claim it lacks stofpping power, is unreliable, and is more suited for plinking than protection. But is that really the whole story? I decided to look deeper into the reality of using .22 LR for defense and whether it’s as useless as people say.

The Pros of .22 LR: Why People Consider It

There’s a reason .22 LR has been around for over a century and remains one of the most popular calibers worldwide. First, the cost – .22 LR is significantly cheaper than nearly every other caliber, making it practical for high-volume practice. The recoil is also almost nonexistent, which makes it a great option for people who struggle with stronger calibers, such as those with arthritis, reduced hand strength, or general recoil sensitivity.

Additionally, firearms chambered in .22 LR tend to be compact, lightweight, and easy to handle. This makes them accessible to a wider range of shooters, especially those who may have difficulty managing a larger-caliber firearm. A gun that someone can shoot confidently and accurately is always better than one they are afraid to use.

The Biggest Concern: Stopping Power and Terminal Ballistics

When it comes to stopping power, .22 LR is at a disadvantage. It lacks the energy and expansion of larger calibers, which means it may not immediately stop a determined attacker. Many argue that it takes multiple shots with a .22 to achieve the same stopping effect that a single round of 9mm or .45 ACP could accomplish.

However, shot placement is the great equalizer in any defensive shooting scenario. A well-placed .22 LR to a vital area can be far more effective than a poorly placed larger-caliber round. The key takeaway here is that while .22 LR is less powerful, it can still be lethal when used effectively.

Reliability Issues: Is .22 LR Prone to Malfunctions?

One of the biggest knocks against .22 LR is its reputation for being unreliable. There are two primary concerns: failures to fire and failures to feed. Since .22 LR is a rimfire cartridge, its primer compound is spread around the rim rather than in a centralized primer like centerfire rounds. This increases the likelihood of ignition failures.

Another issue is that rimmed cartridges don’t always feed smoothly in magazine-fed semi-autos. While there are some highly reliable .22 semi-autos, they are more prone to feeding issues than centerfire pistols.

However, these issues can largely be mitigated. First, using high-quality ammunition makes a noticeable difference. Bulk-packed ammo is more likely to have inconsistencies, whereas premium .22 rounds that come in trays are far more reliable. Additionally, opting for a revolver eliminates feeding problems entirely and makes dealing with misfires as simple as pulling the trigger again.

Ammo Testing: How Does .22 Hold Up in Harsh Conditions?

To get a better sense of how reliable .22 LR can be, I tested 1,500 rounds of high-quality .22 ammunition under different conditions. I separated the rounds into three groups: one was left as a control, one was exposed to a saltwater solution to simulate sweat and humidity, and the third was placed in a brass tumbler to test if vibration could cause failures.

The results were surprising. Across all groups, there were zero failures to fire and zero failures to feed. Even the rounds exposed to saltwater performed flawlessly, suggesting that modern .22 LR ammunition is more resilient than many people assume. That being said, regular maintenance and replacing carry ammo every few months is still a smart practice.

The Revolver Advantage: Sidestepping Reliability Problems

If you’re considering .22 LR for defense, a revolver is a strong choice. Unlike semi-automatic pistols, revolvers don’t rely on magazines or slides to function. This eliminates feeding issues entirely. If you experience a dud round, you simply pull the trigger again and move on to the next chamber.

Small-frame .22 revolvers also tend to be compact, lightweight, and easy to carry. While they may hold fewer rounds than some .22 semi-autos, their simplicity and reliability give them a clear advantage in a self-defense context.

Keeping a .22 Reliable: The Role of Maintenance

Unlike centerfire rounds, .22 LR burns dirtier. Between unburned powder, lead residue, and lubricant buildup, .22 firearms can gunk up quickly. This is why keeping a .22 clean is crucial. A well-maintained .22 firearm will run significantly more reliably than one that has been neglected.

Unlike some centerfire firearms that can go thousands of rounds without cleaning, .22s require more frequent maintenance. If you’re using a .22 for self-defense, it should be cleaned and lubricated regularly to minimize the chances of a malfunction when you need it most.

Defensive Shooting Considerations: The Reality of a .22 in a Fight

In a real-world defensive situation, accuracy and speed matter more than caliber alone. A .22 LR pistol or revolver is extremely easy to shoot, allowing for rapid follow-up shots with minimal recoil. While a single .22 round might not stop an attacker immediately, multiple well-placed shots can make up for the caliber’s lack of raw power.

Some self-defense experts argue that the sheer ease of shooting a .22 makes it a viable option, particularly for individuals who struggle with recoil. If someone can land multiple shots on target quickly with a .22 but struggles to control a larger caliber, the .22 may actually be the better choice for them.

The Psychological Factor: Deterrence and Perception

It’s worth noting that in many cases, just the presence of a firearm can deter an attacker. While a .22 may not have the same intimidation factor as a larger-caliber handgun, an armed defender is still a serious obstacle for an attacker. Most criminals are looking for easy targets, and even a .22 can be enough to make them think twice.

However, if the confrontation escalates and an attacker is determined, you must be prepared to place accurate shots to stop the threat. Relying purely on deterrence is never a safe bet, regardless of caliber.

The Bottom Line: Can .22 LR Work for Self-Defense?

The .22 LR is not the perfect self-defense caliber – it lacks the power of larger rounds, and semi-auto models can sometimes be finicky. However, under the right circumstances, it can be a viable option. If you choose to carry a .22 for defense, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

1. Use high-quality ammunition – Avoid bulk packs and opt for reliable, tray-packed rounds.
2. Keep your firearm clean – .22s get dirty quickly, and reliability depends on maintenance.
3. Consider a revolver – This eliminates feeding issues and makes misfires easier to deal with.
4. Focus on shot placement – A well-placed .22 round can still be lethal.
5. Practice frequently – The affordability of .22 makes it easy to train with, so use that to your advantage.

While the .22 LR may never replace centerfire calibers in terms of power, it is far from useless. For certain individuals – especially those who struggle with recoil or need a compact, low-recoil firearm – it can be an effective self-defense tool when used properly.

Could it Be Your Self-defense Pick?

What do you think? Would you feel comfortable relying on a .22 for self-defense, or do you prefer a larger caliber? Do you think shot placement can truly make up for the lack of stopping power in a smaller caliber? If you had to choose between a high-caliber gun you struggle to shoot and a .22 you’re highly accurate with, which would you pick? How much of self-defense is about caliber, and how much is about mindset and training? Have you ever experienced reliability issues with .22 LR, and how did you address them?