22 Short Ammunition

Developed about 1858, the 22 Short was the first American metallic cartridge. It was introduced in the Smith & Wesson Model 1.

The 22 Short is a low power cartridge, originally designed for self-defense revolvers. The basic design is used for the 22 long, 22 long rifle, and all other rimfire ammunition. The cartridge features a straight wall case with a hollow rim, which holds the priming compound and controls headspace.

The 22 Short cartridge in the Smith & Wesson Model 1, isn't much by today's standards, but in its day it was truly revolutionary.

Originally loaded with black powder and a 29-grain soft lead bullet. It's available today in both solid and hollow-point design. Today the cartridge is used mostly for small game hunting and target practice and is still going strong.

The 22 Short is the oldest listing in the Cartridge Hall of Fame.