22lr pistol defense loads

[Caskalefan]

I know 22lr isn't really a viable defense caliber. However I would like to keep some ammuntion for this purpose on hand just in case. Specifically for a 5 or 6 inch barreled auto, what would be the best option?

[C-grunt]

I would use something with reliable ignition.

[jeff62]

I know 22lr isn't really a viable defense caliber. However I would like to keep some ammuntion for this purpose on hand just in case. Specifically for a 5 or 6 inch barreled auto, what would be the best option?

cci stinger hp

[sjc3081]

Aguilla Interceptor 40grain 1475 from a rifle. I chrono some from a 21-A dont remember the #s. I recall around 800fps????

[Caskalefan]

Aguilla Interceptor 40grain 1475 from a rifle. I chrono some from a 21-A dont remember the #s. I recall around 800fps????

21-a being a bobcat? it says the bbl length is only 2.4", mine is over double that.

[mallowpufft]

Does CCI still make that stuff that's pre-fragmented? I used it a few times on coons from 50yds a few years back with success.

[Clint]

I would use something with reliable ignition.

^ this

Reliable ignition and feeding.

The 22lr has neither diameter nor energy going for it.

The the only remaining terminal ballistic trait is penetration.

Regular 40 grain soft lead actually does well, getting over 12" penetration in some gel pics I have seen.

[leadsender]

I would use something with reliable ignition.

I'm just asking this hypothetically but while were on the topic of rimfires, what about a .17 HMR I've fired over 5,000 (from a rifle) with out one dud. They have plenty of velocity, but only 17 grains. I've seen them dang near cut a jack rabbit in half as well as a through and though on a coyote at close range. I don't think it would tackle many barriers though.

[PlatoCATM]

CCI Velocitor. Not that I would stake my life on it.

[481]

.22LR JHPs launched from short barrels (3"-6") exhibit unreliable expansion and terminal penetration suffers when they do expand.

If .22LR was all that I could use or had available, I'd use Doc Robert's advice regarding the .380 (load and carry FMJs) as a template for selecting .22LR ammunition.

When it comes to defensive weapons in .22LR, I'd go with the heaviest copper plated RN (40 gr. copper plated RNs seem to be the "standard" without getting into the one 60 gr. "novelty load" that I am aware of) at the highest velocity possible to guarantee penetration to the vitals and plan on dumping the entire magazine into the threat.

With the miniature calibers, penetration is your friend.