If you’ve ever wondered why some gun cartridges look different at the base—or what “rimfire” and “centerfire” mean—this article is for you. Choosing the right type of ammunition can greatly affect how you train, hunt, or protect yourself. Below is an overview of the mechanics, applications, and maintenance tips for both rimfire and centerfire cartridges, so you can make informed decisions that suit your needs.
What Are Rimfire and Centerfire Cartridges?
Rimfire Cartridges
How They Work: A rimfire cartridge ignites when the firing pin strikes the rim at the base of the casing. The priming compound is located within that rim.
Common Examples: .22 LR, .22 WMR (also called .22 Magnum), and .17 HMR.
Design Characteristics
Thin case walls allow the firing pin to deform the rim, igniting the primer.
Not reloadable because the rim is crushed upon firing, and the case walls are too thin for reuse.
Best Uses
Plinking and recreational shooting
Small game hunting (rabbits, squirrels)
Training new shooters, thanks to low recoil and minimal noise
Centerfire Cartridges
How They Work: A centerfire cartridge ignites when the firing pin strikes a replaceable primer located in the center of the case base.
Common Examples: 9mm Luger, .223 Remington, .308 Winchester—most modern handgun and rifle cartridges.
Design Characteristics
Thicker cases that handle higher pressures.
Reloadable because you can replace the primer and reuse the case.
Best Uses
Self-defense & duty
Big-game hunting (deer, elk)
Competitive shooting (rifle and handgun events)
Key Differences: Rimfire vs. Centerfire
Feature | Rimfire | Centerfire |
Ignition System | Priming compound in the rim | Primer in the center of the case base |
Pressure Tolerance | Lower (thin walls) | Higher (thicker walls) |
Durability | More fragile | More robust |
Reloading | Not reloadable | Often reloadable |
Applications | Small calibers, low recoil | Huge range of calibers, including high power |
Cost | Generally cheaper per round | More expensive but broader capabilities |
Dry Firing: What It Is and Why It Matters
Dry firing means pulling the trigger on a firearm with no live cartridge in the chamber. Its impact depends on the type of firearm and how often it’s done.
Rimfire Firearms
Why It’s Risky: In rimfires, the firing pin is designed to strike the cartridge’s rim. With no cartridge present, the firing pin can hit the chamber edge. This may bend or break the firing pin or dent the chamber.
Bottom Line: Avoid dry firing rimfire guns unless you have snap caps (dummy rounds) that prevent damage.
Centerfire Firearms
Why It’s Less Harmful: Most modern centerfire firearms are built so the firing pin won’t contact a hard surface if the chamber is empty.
Why It’s Still Not Ideal: Repeated dry firing can wear the firing pin or spring over time, especially in older or more delicate designs.
Bottom Line: Occasional dry firing of modern centerfire guns is typically fine, but snap caps are still recommended to reduce wear.
Snap Caps: Protecting Your Firearm
Snap caps are dummy rounds designed to match the shape and weight of real ammunition without containing powder or a primer. They help in several ways:
Prevent firing pin and chamber damage by providing a surface for the pin to strike.
Allow safe dry fire practice, improving trigger control and diagnosing shooting issues.
Test feeding, extraction, and ejection without using live ammunition.
Choosing Rimfire or Centerfire for New Shooters
Scenario | Rimfire | Centerfire |
Cost-Conscious | Ideal for beginners due to low ammo cost | More expensive but broader applications |
Small Game Hunting | Perfect for rabbits, squirrels, and varmints | Overkill for small animals, better for bigger game |
Training New Shooters | Low recoil and noise, less intimidating | Higher recoil/noise can be challenging for some |
Self-Defense | Not recommended because of limited stopping power | Preferred for defensive handguns and rifles |
Additional Tips for New Shooters
Check Barrel Markings: Always confirm the caliber stamped on the barrel or near the chamber to avoid dangerous ammo mix-ups.
Match Ammo to Purpose: Use standard .22 LR for casual plinking or small-game hunting, and choose hollow points for centerfire self-defense needs.
Practice Safe Maintenance: Use snap caps when dry firing. Inspect firing pins, springs, and chambers regularly for signs of damage.
Start Small, Build Up: Master the fundamentals on a rimfire firearm before moving to higher-recoil centerfire calibers.
Rimfire cartridges shine for affordable, low-recoil shooting and are ideal for beginners or small-game hunters. They should not be dry fired without snap caps because the firing pin could strike the chamber wall. Centerfire cartridges come in many calibers, handle higher pressure, and can be reloaded. While modern centerfire firearms generally tolerate occasional dry firing, snap caps still help preserve internal parts. By understanding the differences between rimfire and centerfire ammunition, you can confidently choose the right firearm for plinking, hunting, or self-defense.
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