There has been much talk about 22 long rifles as a defensible caliber especially in short barreled guns. I will often try out different guns, calibers & bullets on recently deceased big game. I feel that this is as honest a test that is available. No gel blocks, clay blocks, water jugs or folded levis. This way you get a more real test through real hair, hide and body parts. This year I used a Walther TPH 22 LR and CCI Stingers. I shot 2 into the lung cavity of a mule deer buck that had been dead less than a minute. Range of shots about 10'. Both bullets made it to the opposite side and were stuck in the muscle under the skin. No bones encountered. Penetration was 13" and the deer had heavy winter coat. The wounds were very impressive however I will not show photos for sensibility sake. I will however email them if someone is interested in seeing them. Recovered bullet weighed 30 grains. The barrel length from the bullet inside the chamber to the end of the muzzle was only 1 1/2". One bullet was accidently lost. I believe in the photos that follow, the controversy of a bullet shot from a short barrel being capable of expanding at reduced velocity has been answered.
