What is the main difference between centerfire and rimfire ammunition?

The main difference between centerfire and rimfire ammunition lies in the construction of their primers. Rimfire ammunition is designed with the primer located in the rim of the cartridge case, which means that the primer compound is distributed around the inside edge of the base of the cartridge. When the firing pin strikes this area, it crushes the rim and ignites the primer, leading to the firing of the bullet.

This design simplifies the manufacturing process, making rimfire cartridges typically less expensive and suitable for low-caliber firearms. In contrast, centerfire cartridges have the primer located in the center of the casing and can generally handle higher pressures, making them more suitable for a wide range of firearms and loads, including those used for hunting and target shooting. This distinction is important for understanding ammunition types and their respective applications in the field.