What is the main difference between centerfire and rimfire ammunition?

The main difference between centerfire and rimfire ammunition lies in the location of the primer:

• Centerfire: The primer, a small explosive charge that ignites the gunpowder, is located in the center of the cartridge case's base. This allows for a more powerful primer and a more reliable ignition, especially in larger calibers and under higher pressures. Centerfire cartridges are generally stronger and more durable, capable of handling significantly higher pressures than rimfire. They also allow for easier reloading.

• Rimfire: The primer is contained within the rim of the cartridge case. The firing pin strikes the rim, causing the primer to detonate. This design is simpler and cheaper to manufacture, making rimfire cartridges typically less expensive. However, this design limits the power of the cartridge and its potential for pressure, making rimfire suitable primarily for lower-power applications. Rimfire cartridges are also generally not reloadable.

Here's a table summarizing the key differences:

Feature	Centerfire	Rimfire
Primer Location	Center of the cartridge base	Inside the rim of the cartridge
Primer Strength	Stronger, more reliable	Weaker, less reliable
Cartridge Strength	Higher pressure capability	Lower pressure capability
Reloading	Usually reloadable	Generally not reloadable
Cost	Generally more expensive	Generally less expensive
Applications	Rifles, handguns, shotguns	Smaller handguns, rifles, etc.

In short, centerfire is more versatile, powerful, and reliable, while rimfire is simpler, cheaper, and suitable for smaller, less powerful firearms.