Preview: Federal Premium Punch .22 Long Rifle

by
posted on January 28, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
federal-premium-punch-22-long-rifle-defensive-f.jpg
While .22 Long Rifle isn't a top choice for personal-defense use, there are many rimfire guns on the market ideally sized for concealed carry or personal-defense use, and some owners may prefer to use these low-recoil, easy-to-carry options. To cater to this market, Federal Premium expanded its Punch line of defensive ammunition to include the .22 Long Rifle chambering.

This .22 Long Rifle load is the first time Federal Premium has ever offered a defensive-oriented load in this particular chambering. It's notable that there is demand for a defensive rimfire offering, which reflects growing confidence on the part of consumers in the reliability of rimfire ammunition, as well as the guns that feed it.

The Federal Premium Punch .22 Long Rifle load features a 29-gr. lead-core bullet with a nickel plating. The bullet profile is designed to optimize penetration, particularly when fired through short-barreled handguns, like those from North American Arms. The bullets are seated inside nickel-plated cases that provide easier extraction and better corrosion-resistance compared to brass cases. Additionally, Federal's aggressive testing and quality-control protocols are designed to heighten reliability in these defensive-oriented loads.

Since the Federal Premium Punch .22 Long Rifle load is designed for use through short barrels, the company released testing data fired through a 2" barrel, and the specially formulated powder blend achieved a muzzle velocity of 1,070 f.p.s. When fired through a 24" rifle barrel, that velocity increased to 1,650 f.p.s.

Federal Premium's .22 Long Rifle Punch load is sold in boxes of 50 rounds, and the suggested retail price is $9.99. For more information, visit federalpremium.com.

Latest

Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1
Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1

Gun of the Week: TriStar Arms KR.22

Semi-automatic .22 rifles have been a staple in the firearm marketplace for decades, and the TriStar Arms KR.22 brings yet another lightweight, affordable option that accepts Ruger 10/22 rotary magazines.

Political Report | Trump Reiterates National Right-to-Carry Support

I am repeatedly reminded of how critical it was that the NRA engaged early in supporting Donald Trump’s 2016 candidacy—and that he won. A recent example came in June, when President Trump spoke to American workers at a Mack Trucks facility in Macungie, Pa.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 21, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Norinco TU-33/40: A Rimfire Mauser Lookalike from China

The Norinco TU-33/40 is, at a glance, a copy of a Mauser 98k with a few choice details that give away the fact that it’s not a big-bore World War II workhorse.

AI Tools Enter the Used-Gun Market

Companies that deal in the used-gun market are not shy about sharing the advantages their AI-driven tools and services.

Standing Guard | Standing on the Line for Freedom

This past August marks 46 years since I raised my right hand and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. In the summer of 1980, I entered active duty with a firm sense of civic duty and a deep desire to serve our great nation. Like so many who wear the uniform, I was ready to contribute directly to the defense of freedom.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.