Using a .22 LR for Self Defense

According to the most recent Federal Bureau of Investigation statistics, violent crime has decreased over the past few years. Although this is good news for our country, many people find it necessary to be prepared to defend themselves. In addition to staying aware of your surroundings and not subjecting yourself to danger unnecessarily, you can take a pro-active step and purchase a firearm for self-defense.

Things You'll Need

  • .22 LR firearm .22 LR rounds
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Instructions

  1. The .22 Long Rifle

    • 1

      One firearm caliber that is popular with many people and for many uses is the .22 Long Rifle (or .22LR). This small caliber round is approximately .985 inches long (bullet and casing), average weight is 2.5 grams and can be fired from a pistol or rifle and there are even shotgun rounds available. The popularity of the .22 LR springs from its lightweight and affordable cost. A single round of .22 LR can cost as little as $0.04 and be bought in boxes of 100-to-5,000 rounds.

    • 2

      The .22 LR rifle or pistol is mainly used for small game hunting, pest control or target shooting. The small size of the bullet and the lack of "knock-down" weight does not necessarily lend it to use as a primary self defense round. Even though the .22 LR is not the perfect self-defense caliber, it can still do serious harm and cause death depending on the distance it is fired at an assailant.

    • 3

      Another benefit in addition to the lightweight and low cost is the accessibility of firearms for the .22 LR. There are models of pistols (single shot and semi-automatic) and rifles (bolt action and semi-automatic) across all sizes and price ranges. Because of the low recoil the .22 LR is perfect for smaller people who may struggle with a larger caliber weapon such as a 12 gauge shotgun or .45 caliber pistol.

    Safety and Training

    • 4

      Extreme care must be taken when using any firearm. If you decide to use the .22 LR for self-defense take into consideration the surrounding neighborhood. Depending on the amount of gun powder in the casing and the size of the bullet (2.5 grams to 3.9 grams), the round can travel over one mile and cause serious injury.

    • 5

      It is vital that you receive the proper training before using any firearm. You can contact your local police or sheriff's department to inquire about firearm training or contact the National Rifle Association for information about the safe use of firearms for self-defense and to sign up for a training course.

    • 6

      Remember, a firearm is not a toy. You should treat EVERY firearm as if it were loaded. If you do plan to pull the trigger make sure there are no innocent parties behind the target you are shooting. Get training and don't handle firearms if you are chemically impaired.