Shot placement. Just like most other rounds.
Hit a man in the heart with a .22 and he’s still shooting, stabbing and fighting.
He might even live.
Stepping up to .380 (minimum) completely changes that calculus.
I didn’t read the WHOLE article, but the thing that has always concerned me is the number or click and no bangs I get with .22 rimfire. Even with new CCI mini-mags.
I would be nervous to rely on those.
Jeff Cooper wrote with his customary lucidity on this topic decades ago.
Personally, my current carry choice is the venerable .45 ACP, but any pistol is just a tool to fight your way back to that rifle you so foolishly left in the truck.
Where I have a slight departure from this .22 discussion, is that my ability to place shots at higher calibers rises with range time.
I don't doubt that shot placement is key. I also agree that for some people, a .22 is all they can handle. Fair enough.
But, if a .22 is someone's go-to self-defense firearm BECAUSE they don't go to the range and don't build up their skills, that could leave a false sense of security.
“Shot placement. Just like most other rounds.”
Yup.
But, a .22LR would not be my go-to choice if, indeed, I had the choice. That being said, if a .22LR was all I had at the time, I’d be glad I at least had it.
Yup!
.
It’s Always 3 words;
“Location, Location and
LOCATION!”
👍
And the fact that it is rim fire. A misfire in an auto can be bad.