If you’re new to firearms or simply looking to save money when buying in bulk, one of the most common questions is: Should I buy rimfire or centerfire ammo?. Rimfire vs Centerfire Bulk Ammo Canada
Both types are widely available in Canada, but they serve very different purposes. In this guide, we’ll compare rimfire vs. centerfire bulk ammo in Canada, covering their differences, advantages, prices, and ideal uses so you can make the right choice in 2025.
What is Rimfire Ammo?
- Definition: Rimfire cartridges have the primer built into the rim of the casing.
- Common Calibers in Canada: .22 LR, .22 WMR.
- Price (2025): $60–$80 per 500 rounds.
Pros of Rimfire Bulk Ammo
- Extremely affordable — best for beginners and training.
- Low recoil, great for youth shooters.
- Ideal for small game hunting.
Cons of Rimfire Bulk Ammo
- Limited calibers.
- Less reliable ignition compared to centerfire.
- Not reloadable.
What is Centerfire Ammo?
- Definition: Centerfire cartridges have a primer located in the center of the casing.
- Common Calibers in Canada: 9mm, .223/5.56, .308, .45 ACP, 12 Gauge.
- Price (2025): $300–$700 per 1,000 rounds depending on caliber.
Pros of Centerfire Bulk Ammo
- Wide variety of calibers available in Canada.
- More reliable ignition.
- Reloadable casings (cost savings for reloaders).
- Suitable for hunting, self-defense, and competitive shooting.
Cons of Centerfire Bulk Ammo
- More expensive per round.
- Higher recoil in some calibers.
Rimfire vs. Centerfire: Price Comparison in Canada (2025)
| Ammo Type | Common Caliber | Bulk Price (2025) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rimfire Ammo | .22 LR | $60–$80 / 500 rds | Training, small game |
| Centerfire Ammo | 9mm | $300–$400 / 1,000 rds | Target shooting, defense |
| Centerfire Ammo | .223/5.56 | $450–$600 / 1,000 rds | Hunting, tactical shooting |
Which Should Canadians Buy in Bulk?
- Choose Rimfire Bulk Ammo if you’re looking for the cheapest way to practice shooting, or if you’re hunting small game.
- Choose Centerfire Bulk Ammo if you want reliability, more power, and versatility for hunting, defense, and competitive shooting.
💡 Many Canadian firearm owners buy rimfire ammo in bulk for cheap training and centerfire ammo in bulk for practical use.
Final Thoughts
The debate of rimfire vs centerfire bulk ammo in Canada really comes down to your needs. For affordable practice, rimfire can’t be beaten. For versatility, reliability, and hunting performance, centerfire is the way to go.
In 2025, smart Canadian shooters invest in both: rimfire for training, and centerfire for real-world applications.