How Do You Spell RIMFIRE?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈɪmfa͡ɪ͡ə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "rimfire" uses the IPA phonetic transcription [rɪmˌfaɪər]. The first part of the word "rim" is pronounced with the short "i" sound [ɪ], and the second part "fire" uses the long "i" sound [aɪ]. The word refers to a type of firearm cartridge that has a small percussion cap at the base of the cartridge's rim, causing ignition when struck by the firing pin. The spelling of "rimfire" accurately represents the pronunciation of the word.

RIMFIRE Meaning and Definition

  1. Rimfire refers to a type of ammunition primer ignition system used in certain firearms. It is called "rimfire" due to the presence of a rim on the base of the cartridge casing. This rim contains the ignition compound that is struck by the firing pin, causing the cartridge to discharge.

    In a rimfire cartridge, the priming compound is distributed within the rim area, making it easier to manufacture and less expensive compared to other primer types. This type of ignition system is typically used in small caliber firearms, such as .22 caliber rifles, handguns, and some shotguns.

    The rimfire firing mechanism relies on the firing pin to strike the edge of the rim, which crushes the priming compound between the rim and the bolt face. This impact causes a chemical reaction that ignites the powder charge, propelling the bullet forward.

    One key characteristic of rimfire ammunition is that it cannot be reloaded. The primer compound is integral to the base of the cartridge, making it nearly impossible to replace or reload with new primer composition. As a result, rimfire cartridges are typically considered disposable. This feature, combined with their lower power compared to centerfire ammunition, makes rimfire cartridges ideal for small recreational firearms, plinking, varmint hunting, and target shooting activities.

    Overall, rimfire refers to a specific type of firearm ammunition ignition system that utilizes a rim containing priming compound to ignite the cartridge upon striking by the firing pin.

Common Misspellings for RIMFIRE

Etymology of RIMFIRE

The word "rimfire" is derived from the construction of a rimfire cartridge. The term "rim" refers to the rim at the base of the cartridge, which is slightly larger in diameter than the rest of the case. The "rim" is the part that is struck by the firing pin to ignite the primer and discharge the cartridge. The term "fire" simply relates to the act of igniting the primer. Thus, "rimfire" describes the method of ignition used in these specific cartridges.

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