What Kind of Bullets Does a Switch Gun Use?
The Switch Gun is chambered in two rimfire cartridges - .22 WMR and .22 LR - depending on which cylinder is installed. Here's what that actually means for ammunition selection.
The Two Cartridges: .22 WMR and .22 LR
.22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire), often called ".22 Magnum," is a longer, higher-pressure cartridge than .22 LR. It produces higher velocity and more energy on target, which is why it's the Switch Gun's standard carry chambering.
.22 LR (Long Rifle) is a shorter, lower-pressure cartridge. It produces less recoil and typically costs less per round, making it a common choice for practice or for shooters who prefer a lighter-recoiling option.
Both are rimfire cartridges, meaning the primer is located in the rim of the cartridge case rather than a separate primer cap - this is a fundamentally different ignition system than centerfire ammunition used in most larger-caliber handguns.
Bullet Types Available in Both Calibers
Within either .22 WMR or .22 LR, ammunition is available in a few common bullet styles:
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): A lead core fully enclosed in a copper or copper-alloy jacket. Common for target practice due to lower cost and consistent feeding/cycling.
- Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP): Designed to expand on impact, commonly chosen for self-defense use due to different terminal performance characteristics than FMJ.
- Plated or lead round nose: A middle-ground option in terms of cost and jacket coverage, often used for practice.
Choosing Ammunition for the Switch Gun Specifically
Because the Switch Gun has a short barrel relative to a rifle or longer-barreled handgun, it's worth looking specifically for ammunition tested or marketed for short-barrel or snub-nosed platforms rather than assuming standard published ballistics (which are frequently measured from longer barrels) will translate directly. Several ammunition manufacturers now produce .22 WMR loads specifically developed with short-barrel velocity loss in mind.
Cylinder Compatibility
Ammunition selection depends entirely on which cylinder is currently installed - the .22 WMR cylinder only chambers .22 WMR cartridges, and the .22 LR cylinder only chambers .22 LR. The two cartridges are physically different sizes and are not interchangeable within the same cylinder. SHOP SPARE CYLINDERS
A Note on Ammunition Selection
Ammunition choice - particularly for a self-defense firearm - depends on individual factors like intended use, local regulations, and personal preference. This article covers what ammunition types exist and are compatible with the Switch Gun; it isn't a recommendation of a specific load. If you're unsure what to choose, many gun shops and ranges can offer guidance based on your specific needs.
