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22 CB SHORT

.22 Short CB Ammo: A Quiet and Versatile Rimfire Option

What is .22 Short CB Ammunition?

The .22 Short CB (Conical Ball) is a specialized type of .22 Short rimfire ammunition designed for ultra-quiet shooting. It features a lightweight projectile, minimal powder charge, and operates at lower velocities, making it one of the quietest rounds available in the rimfire category. Unlike standard .22 Short rounds, the CB variant relies almost entirely on the primer for propulsion, significantly reducing noise and recoil. While longer barrels may slightly increase velocity, excessive barrel length can also cause velocity loss due to increased friction.

History and Development

The .22 Short cartridge has a storied history that dates back to 1857, when Smith & Wesson introduced it as the first American self-contained metallic cartridge. Over the decades, this rimfire ammunition has seen numerous advancements, with CB rounds being developed for quiet, close-range shooting. Manufacturers like CCI, RWS, and Aguila have produced various .22 Short CB variants tailored for pest control and indoor target shooting.

Key Features of .22 Short CB Rimfire Ammunition

  • Extremely Low Noise: With reduced velocity and powder load, .22 Short CB is an excellent option for backyard plinking or discreet pest control where noise reduction is essential.
  • Minimal Recoil: The light bullet weight and low-pressure charge result in virtually no felt recoil, making it ideal for training new shooters.
  • Lower Velocity: Generally traveling at speeds around 650–750 feet per second (fps), .22 Short CB rounds are subsonic, preventing the loud crack associated with breaking the sound barrier.
  • Bolt-Action and Single-Shot Firearms Compatibility: Due to the lack of energy required to cycle semi-automatic actions, .22 Short CB is best suited for bolt-action, lever-action, and single-shot firearms.

Technical Details

The CCI .22 Short CB 29 Grain ammunition is engineered for precision and quiet performance. Featuring a 29-grain lead projectile, it achieves a muzzle velocity of 710 fps, ensuring it remains subsonic and avoids the loud crack of breaking the sound barrier. This makes it particularly suitable for environments where noise reduction is crucial. The reliable CCI priming and brass casing ensure consistent performance, making it ideal for short-range pest control and indoor target shooting.

Best Uses for .22 Short CB

  • Pest Control: Ideal for eliminating small vermin such as rats and squirrels in areas where noise is a concern.
  • Target Shooting & Training: Perfect for informal plinking and introducing new shooters to firearms due to its minimal recoil.
  • Urban or Backyard Shooting: In jurisdictions where it is legal, .22 Short CB offers an extremely quiet shooting experience, making it a good choice for low-impact shooting practice.

Things to Consider

  • Limited Effective Range: Due to its low velocity, .22 Short CB is best used at short distances, typically under 25 yards.
  • Manual Cycling Required in Semi-Autos: Since these rounds lack the necessary energy to cycle most semi-automatic actions, users of such firearms will need to manually cycle each shot.
  • Accuracy at Longer Distances: The lower velocity can impact accuracy beyond close-range targets, so it’s best used for precise, short-range applications.

Comparison: .22 Short CB vs. .22 LR

Feature

.22 Short CB

.22 Long Rifle (LR)

Velocity

~650–750 fps

1,050–1,300+ fps

Noise Level

Extremely Low

Moderate

Recoil

Minimal

Light to Moderate

Effective Range

~25 yards

~100+ yards

Semi-Auto Cycling

No

Yes (most rifles)

Why Buy from Pro Armory?

At Pro Armory, we are dedicated to providing shooters with high-quality ammunition and firearm accessories at competitive prices. Here’s why customers trust us:

  • Wide Selection: We stock a diverse inventory of 5.56 & .223 magazines, along with a broad range of other firearm accessories.
  • Competitive Pricing: Get some of the best deals on the market, ensuring you receive the highest value for your money.
  • Fast Shipping: We prioritize quick order processing and delivery, ensuring your purchase reaches you as soon as possible.
  • Trusted Brands: Our inventory features reliable manufacturers known for their quality and performance.
  • Expert Customer Support: Have questions? Our knowledgeable team is always ready to help you find the right magazines and accessories for your needs.

Ammo and Firearm Safety

Handling ammunition and firearms responsibly is critical for safety. Follow these essential safety guidelines:

  • Always Treat Every Firearm as Loaded: Never point a firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
  • Use the Correct Ammo: Ensure you are using the right caliber for your firearm to avoid malfunctions and potential damage.
  • Store Ammo Properly: Keep ammunition in a cool, dry place away from heat, moisture, and unauthorized access.
  • Wear Proper Protection: Use ear and eye protection when shooting to safeguard against noise and debris.
  • Be Aware of Your Target and Surroundings: Know what’s beyond your target to prevent unintended injuries.
  • Regularly Maintain Your Firearm: Clean and inspect your firearm to ensure it functions properly and safely.

Conclusion

For those looking for a whisper-quiet rimfire round that excels in pest control, training, and casual plinking, the .22 Short CB is a fantastic option. While it has its limitations in range and semi-automatic cycling, its advantages in low-noise shooting and minimal recoil make it a unique and valuable addition to any shooter’s ammunition collection.

Check out our selection of .22 Short CB ammo at ProArmory to find the best options for your shooting needs!

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