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rimfire

rimfire

8.4
A gun that uses cartridges fired when the rim of their base is hit
  • noun
  • /ˈrɪmˌfaɪər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : arma de percusión
  • For beginners, a rimfire firearm is an excellent choice as it offers a manageable shooting experience.
  • .22 rimfire
  • rimfire rifle

Examples

  • We ended the last article in the series by recommending rimfire firearms for training, and left on the note that "merely buying a gun doesn't make you a shooter any more than buying a car makes you a NASCAR driver."

    Blog text (11)
  • Many hunters prefer using a rimfire rifle for small game due to its accuracy and low recoil.

  • The rimfire cartridge is popular among target shooters because it is cheaper and quieter than centerfire ammunition.

Surface Forms

rimfire singular
rimfires plural

Morphology

rimfire = rim + fire (transparent) = rim + fire

The noun denotes a device characterized by firing via the rim; the relation to 'rim' and 'fire' is direct and inferable.

Etymology

Rimfire comes from the parts rim ('edge') and fire ('to make go off'). It names a gun that fires when the edge of the cartridge is struck, so a rimfire firearm uses the rim to ignite the round.