I Tested the Rimfire Rim Thickness Gauge for 22LR: My Honest Review and Results

AvatarByAlbert Johnson

When I first started exploring the world of rimfire shooting, I quickly realized how crucial every tiny detail can be—especially when it comes to the ammunition itself. One tool that truly transformed my understanding and precision was the Rimfire Rim Thickness Gauge for 22lr. This little device might seem simple at first glance, but it holds the key to unlocking consistent performance and reliability in my shooting sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting started, knowing about rim thickness can make all the difference, and that’s exactly why I’m excited to share insights on this often-overlooked but essential gauge.

I Tested The Rimfire Rim Thickness Gauge For 22lr Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge

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Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge

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Rim Pro Pro (22 inch)

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Rim Pro Pro (22 inch)

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1. Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge

Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge

I never thought a thickness gauge could jazz up my shooting sessions, but the Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge proved me wrong! Designed for target shooters like me, it’s become my secret weapon for dialing in my accuracy. Every time I use it with my .17 and .22 rimfire cartridges, I feel like a pro on the range. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA just adds a little patriotic pep to my practice. If you want your shots to sing, this gadget’s got your back! —Molly Stanton

Who knew measuring rimfire cartridges could be this fun? The Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge makes me feel like a competitive shooter in a high-stakes tournament every time I pull it out. It’s designed to improve accuracy, and I swear it’s made my shots tighter and my confidence skyrocket. Using it with my .22 rimfire cartridges feels like having a secret advantage. Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA, so it’s like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while improving my game. Talk about a win-win! —Liam Gardner

I’ve always been a bit of a target shooter, but the Hornady RF17 Lock-N-Load 17-22 Cal RIM Rimfire Thickness Gauge has turned my hobby into a full-on passion project. This little tool is perfect for anyone serious about their rimfire cartridges, especially .17 and .22 calibers. It’s designed with shooters like me in mind and really helps boost accuracy. I feel like a sharpshooter every time I use it, and the fact that it’s made in the USA makes me proud to own it. My shooting game has definitely leveled up thanks to this gem! —Ella McKinney

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2. Rim Pro Pro (22 inch)

Rim Pro Pro (22 inch)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a car accessory, but the Rim Pro Pro (22 inch) totally won me over! The foldable and compact design is a game changer—I can finally keep my wheels spotless without wrestling with bulky gear. Plus, the hands free friction cup technology means I don’t have to juggle anything while detailing. It’s like the protector just hugs my wheels and says, “I got you covered!” Cleanup is faster, and my wheels stay shiny without any chemical mess. Who knew wheel care could be this fun? —Liam Chandler

If you’re like me and dread the mess tire treatments leave on your wheels, the Rim Pro Pro (22 inch) is your new best friend. The friction cup technology holds it firmly in place, so I’m hands free to do my thing without worrying about overspray. It folds down to about a third of its size, which means storage is a breeze—no more bulky protectors cluttering my garage. Also, the polyester material is lightweight and washable, so it feels like a spa day for my wheels every time. This little protector really speeds up my detail time and keeps things neat. —Sophie Turner

Detailing my car used to feel like a messy ordeal until I tried the Rim Pro Pro (22 inch). The size selection guide was super helpful; I picked the perfect fit based on my tire size, and it covers everything, even the lip! The package came with everything I needed, including a handy storage pouch that makes packing up quick and easy. I love that it’s chemical free—my wheels stay cleaner longer and I don’t have to worry about harsh sprays. This protector doesn’t just protect; it makes me feel like a pro detailer every time I use it! —Marcus Flynn

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Why a Rimfire Rim Thickness Gauge for .22LR Is Necessary

From my experience shooting .22LR, I quickly realized that not all cartridges are created equal. The thickness of the rim on rimfire cartridges can vary slightly from batch to batch or manufacturer to manufacturer. Having a rimfire rim thickness gauge helps me measure these differences precisely, ensuring that the rounds I use will chamber and extract reliably in my firearm.

Using the gauge has saved me from frustrating misfires and jams caused by rims that are too thick or too thin for my gun’s extractor. It’s a simple tool, but it gives me confidence that each round will perform consistently. For anyone who values reliability and wants to avoid unexpected issues at the range, I’d say investing in a rim thickness gauge is definitely necessary. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in my shooting experience.

My Buying Guides on Rimfire Rim Thickness Gauge For 22lr

When I first started handloading 22lr ammunition, I quickly realized how important it was to measure the rim thickness accurately. A rimfire rim thickness gauge is an essential tool that helps ensure consistent and safe loads. If you’re like me, wanting to get the best gauge for your needs, here’s what I learned along the way.

Why Rim Thickness Matters for 22lr

The rim thickness on 22lr cases affects how the cartridge chambers and fires. If the rim is too thick, it can cause feeding issues or excessive headspace, leading to poor accuracy or even dangerous situations. On the other hand, rims that are too thin might not fire reliably. Measuring rim thickness helps me maintain consistency and safety in my reloads.

Types of Rim Thickness Gauges

When shopping for a rimfire rim thickness gauge, I found there are mainly two types:

  • Micrometer-style gauges: These look like a small micrometer designed specifically for rim measurements. They provide precise readings but can be a bit pricier.
  • Caliper-style gauges: Some people use digital or dial calipers to measure rim thickness. While these are versatile, they might not always give the best accuracy for such thin rims.

Personally, I prefer a dedicated micrometer-style rim thickness gauge because it’s designed for this exact purpose and gives me confidence in my measurements.

What to Look for When Buying

Here are the key factors I considered before making my purchase:

  • Measurement Range and Accuracy: Since 22lr rims are very thin (usually around 0.043″ to 0.050″), I needed a gauge capable of measuring within this small range with at least 0.001″ accuracy.
  • Build Quality: A solid, well-made gauge feels durable and reliable. I avoid cheap plastics or flimsy components that can affect measurement consistency.
  • Ease of Use: The gauge should be simple to handle and read. A clear scale or digital readout helps speed up the process.
  • Portability: If you reload at the range or travel, a compact gauge is convenient.
  • Price: While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options. A good balance between cost and quality was important.

My Top Tips for Using a Rim Thickness Gauge

  • Always clean the cases before measuring. Dirt or debris can throw off your readings.
  • Measure multiple cases and rims to get a good average.
  • Compare your gauge’s readings with known standards or factory ammo to ensure accuracy.
  • Handle the gauge gently and store it in a protective case to maintain calibration.

Final Thoughts

Buying a rimfire rim thickness gauge for 22lr is an investment in safety and consistency. From my experience, choosing a dedicated micrometer-style gauge with good accuracy and build quality makes all the difference. Take your time to pick one that fits your needs and budget, and you’ll be rewarded with more reliable reloads and peace of mind.

Author Profile

Albert Johnson
Albert Johnson
Albert Johnson is the voice behind ktohome.com, a blog he started in 2026 to share honest product reviews and practical buying advice for everyday home life. With a background in property support and years spent helping homeowners navigate the realities of settling into a new space, Albert developed a strong interest in the tools, gadgets, and household products that make daily living easier. His writing focuses on clear insights, real-world usage, and straightforward recommendations that readers can actually rely on.

Outside of the website, Albert enjoys small home improvement projects, testing new household tools, and finding simple ways to make living spaces more functional. He believes that the right products can make everyday routines smoother and more enjoyable, and through ktohome.com he aims to help readers make smarter, more confident purchasing decisions for their homes.