In fact, both are widely regarded in defensive handgun circles as being too underpowered for self-defense or hunting and too expensive for those multi-thousand-round days at the plinking range. Both calibers offer a light, short cartridge suitable for an easily-concealed handgun neither offer particularly impressive ballistics. Twenty-five and thirty-two, the “sub-combat” calibers, occupy a strange space in the world of mainstream handgun ammunition. 22 has acquired a folkloric reputation for lethality due to its supposed propensity to bounce around inside a target this has been widely disconfirmed by modern studies of stopping power.25 ACP The rounds themselves differ only in terms of length and powder charge all fire a small, light projectile most suited to target practice and small game hunting.
Most common pistol calibers today are “center-fire,” with the primer located on a striking surface at the center of the casing instead. 22 caliber cartridges are notable as being one of the last remaining commonly-manufactured types of rimfire ammunition, i.e., rounds wherein the powder is set aflame by primer located in the rim of the cartridge. Now the fun part… Handgun Caliber Comparison Chart
Instead, we are presenting the information to allow you to make your own conclusions.
Note: Before we dive in, let us explain that we will be avoiding the classic pistol caliber debate in this guide. We will be comparing standard ranges for the following critical parameters for each caliber: Now, let us focus on the bullet itself to compare some of the most common pistol calibers.