Rimfire is a type of firearm cartridge ammunition. It is composed of a metallic case, a primer, a powder charge, and a bullet. Rimfire ammunition is easily recognizable by its small, circular rim on the base of the cartridge case. The rim is used to ignite the priming compound, which in turn ignites the powder charge. This type of ammunition is typically used in small, short-barreled firearms such as pistols, revolvers, and rifles. Rimfire ammunition is typically used in small game hunting, target shooting, and plinking. It is generally less expensive than centerfire ammunition, and, due to its lower muzzle velocity, is generally safer for close-range shooting.