The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) and the .223 Remington (often shortened to .223) are both cartridges that share a similar name, leading to frequent confusion. However, their bullet sizes, power, and applications differ significantly. This detailed comparison will clarify the distinctions between these two popular calibers.
Understanding Bullet Size: Diameter and Shape
While both cartridges are nominally ".22," this refers to the approximate diameter of the bullet's projectile in inches. This initial similarity is misleading. The crucial difference lies in how that diameter is achieved and the resulting bullet characteristics.
.22 LR Bullet Size:
The .22 LR bullet typically has a diameter of approximately 0.224 inches. These bullets are generally smaller and lighter, ranging from 29 grains to 40 grains. They are usually designed with a round nose or hollow point shape for target shooting, small game hunting, or plinking. The shape impacts trajectory and expansion on impact.
.223 Bullet Size:
The .223 Remington bullet's diameter is also nominally ".22," but the bullet itself measures around 0.224 inches at the base and can vary slightly at the tip depending on the bullet design. However, this is where the similarities end. .223 bullets are significantly longer and heavier than .22 LR bullets, commonly ranging from 55 grains to 77 grains (and even beyond). They are designed with a wider variety of shapes to optimize for different purposes, including full metal jacket (FMJ), boat-tail, hollow-point, and others. These designs affect factors like accuracy, penetration, and expansion.
Beyond Diameter: A Comparison of Key Ballistic Differences
The difference in bullet weight and cartridge design creates significant discrepancies in performance:
| Feature | .22 LR | .223 Remington |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Diameter | ~0.224 inches | ~0.224 inches (at base) |
| Bullet Weight | 29-40 grains | 55-77+ grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | 700-1200 feet per second (fps) | 2,800-3,300 fps (or more, depending on barrel length and load) |
| Muzzle Energy | Relatively low, suitable for small game | Significantly higher, suitable for varmints, predators, and self-defense |
| Range | Short to moderate | Much longer |
| Recoil | Very low | Moderate to high |
| Typical Use | Target practice, plinking, small game | Hunting, varmint control, self-defense, tactical applications |
Conclusion: Different Tools for Different Jobs
While both cartridges share a superficial resemblance in their name and approximate bullet diameter, their performance characteristics diverge significantly. The .22 LR is a low-powered, lightweight round ideal for casual shooting, plinking, and small game hunting. The .223 Remington, in contrast, packs far more power and energy, suitable for longer-range applications, larger game, and self-defense. Choosing the right cartridge depends entirely on the intended application.
