Rimfire pistols have always been a preferred pick for shooting enthusiasts, providing affordability, low recoil, and versatility that is attractive to both novice and experienced shooters. The term “rimfire” refers to the cartridge type used in these firearms, where the firing pin strikes the rim of the cartridge to ignite the primer. This is different from centerfire cartridges, which are ignited by striking a centrally located primer.

The most common caliber in rimfire handguns is the .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR). This caliber features manageable recoil, making it perfect for beginners. The .22 LR is preferred by seasoned shooters for various activities like target practice and small game hunting because of its precision and cost-effectiveness. Rimfire ammo tends to be less expensive than centerfire rounds, making frequent practice more economical.

Popular rimfire handguns are models such as the Ruger Mark IV, Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory, and Browning Buck Mark. These models are celebrated for their reliability, precision, and ease of operation. The Ruger Mark IV, like, is celebrated for its simple takedown process, making cleaning and maintenance straightforward, even for new users.

In addition to .22 LR, shooters have additional options with calibers such as .17 HMR and .22 WMR. The .17 HMR, known for its higher speed, is preferred for hunting small game, while the .22 WMR provides a bit more power than the standard .22 LR, making it a versatile option for various shooting activities.

These handguns are popular in competitive shooting, including sports such as bullseye and steel challenge. Their accuracy and low recoil make them well-suited for accuracy-focused competitions.

Rimfire handguns are a great entry point into shooting, and also delivering considerable value for more experienced users. For training, sports shooting, or hunting, they remain a cornerstone in the world of firearms.