The first commercially successful metallic cartridge. Used in Olympic rapid-fire pistol events for over a century.
Type: Rimfire
Introduced: 1857, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.223" (5.66 mm)
Case length: 0.421" (10.69 mm)
Overall length: 0.695" (17.65 mm)
Max pressure: 21,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimfire
Primer: Rimfire
Typical twist rate: 1:16
Muzzle velocity: 830–1095 fps
Muzzle energy: 44–77 ft-lbs
Effective range: 50 yd
Common bullet weights: 29 gr
Primary use: Pest Control, Gallery Shooting, Olympic Pistol
Production status: Active
Also known as: 22 Short · .22 Short RF
History: Introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1857 for the Model 1 revolver — the first commercially successful metallic cartridge revolver. The genesis of the rimfire cartridge concept. Still used in Olympic 25m Rapid Fire Pistol competition.
Notable firearms: S&W Model 1, Colt Woodsman, Olympic rapid-fire pistols
Military use: {"country":"U.S. Army","years":"pistol training, WWII"}
Similar cartridges: .22 Long, .22 LR