Rimfire vs. centerfire

Both rimfire and centerfire ammunition are types of primer-ignited cartridges, meaning they fire when the gun’s firing pin strikes the primer to ignite the powder charge.

In centerfire ammunition, the primer is located in the center of the cartridge base. When the firing pin hits this central point, it ignites the primer and sets off the gunpowder, firing the round.

Rimfire ammunition, on the other hand, has the primer built into the rim of the cartridge. A strike to the edge of the rim ignites the primer and fires the bullet.

Though the ignition method may seem like a small detail, it has a big impact on performance, reliability, and how the ammunition is used.

Therefore, the primary difference between rimfire vs. centerfire ammunition lies in how the cartridge is ignited. Here is an overview on the differences:

• Design: The primer (the chemical that ignites the gunpowder) is located in the rim of the cartridge base.
• How it works: When the firing pin strikes the rim, it crushes the primer compound inside, igniting the powder and firing the round.
• Usage: Typically used in small-caliber rimfire vs. centerfire pistols and rifles, often for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting.

• Design: The primer is located in the center of the cartridge base.
• How it works: The firing pin strikes the primer, igniting the powder and firing the round.
• Usage: Found in most modern centerfire vs. rimfire pistols and rifles, used for self-defense, hunting, and military/law enforcement applications.

Both rimfire and centerfire ammunition have their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on what you’re looking for in a firearm.

Because of their simple design and lower cost, rimfire rounds are a favorite for target practice, plinking, and small game hunting. However, due to their lighter construction, they are generally less reliable than centerfire ammunition and not suited for high-powered applications.

 Pros:

• Affordable: Rimfire ammo is generally cheaper, making it ideal for beginners and budget-conscious shooters.
• Low Recoil: Great for new shooters and those sensitive to recoil.
• Lightweight: Easier to carry large amounts of ammunition.

 Cons:

• Less Power: Not ideal for larger game hunting or self-defense.
• Non-reloadable: Rimfire cases cannot be reloaded.
• More Misfires: Less reliable due to inconsistent primer ignition.

Centerfire ammunition is the most common type of cartridge used today in both civilian and military firearms. It gets its name from the location of the primer—right in the center of the cartridge base. When the firing pin strikes the primer, it ignites the gunpowder and fires the round.

 Pros:

• More Power: Suitable for big game hunting and self-defense.
• Reloadable: Spent casings can be reloaded, saving money in the long run.
• Higher Reliability: More consistent ignition and fewer misfires.

 Cons:

• More Expensive: Higher cost per round compared to rimfire.
• Higher Recoil: Can be challenging for beginners.
• Heavier Ammunition: Bulkier to carry in large amounts.

One of the easiest ways to tell rimfire and centerfire ammunition apart is by inspecting the base of the cartridge.

• Centerfire ammunition has a small, circular primer located in the center of the cartridge base. This primer is a separate component, and you'll usually see a distinct circle or cap at the bottom.
• Rimfire ammunition lacks a central primer. Instead, the priming compound is built into the rim around the base. The bottom will appear flat, with no separate primer component.

Quick visual tip: If you see a circular indentation or cap in the center of the base, it’s centerfire. If the base is flat and uniform, it’s rimfire.

This simple identification is crucial for both safe firearm use and correct ammunition selection. Using the wrong type of ammo can damage your firearm or even cause injury.

New shooters often make a few common mistakes when navigating rimfire vs. centerfire ammo. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using rimfire for self-defense: Rimfire ammunition is not recommended for personal defense due to its lower stopping power and higher risk of misfires.
• Trying to reload rimfire cases: Unlike centerfire casings, rimfire brass cannot be reloaded. Attempting to do so can be dangerous.
• Assuming interchangeability: Not all guns can fire both types of ammo. Never use ammunition in a firearm unless it’s specifically designed for it.
• Choosing based only on price: Rimfire ammo is cheaper, but that doesn't mean it's always the best choice. Consider your goals—training, hunting, or self-defense—before deciding.
• Neglecting proper storage: Rimfire ammo is more sensitive to moisture and impact, which can degrade performance. Store both types in cool, dry, secure places.

Both rimfire and centerfire ammunition leave residue behind after firing, but the type and amount can vary. This affects how you clean and care for your firearm.

• Rimfire ammo tends to be dirtier, especially with bulk or unjacketed rounds. The priming compound used can create more carbon and residue in the chamber and barrel.
• Centerfire ammo burns cleaner overall and is often loaded to higher pressures, which can help reduce buildup—but it still requires regular cleaning.