rimfire

[ rim-fahyuh r ]

/ ˈrɪmˌfaɪər /

(of a cartridge) having the primer in a rim encircling the base. Compare center-fire(def 1).

(of a firearm) designed for the use of such cartridges.

Origin of rimfire

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; rim + fire

In rim-fire cartridges the .22-calibre conical-ball cartridge is used in considerable quantity.

The Modern American Pistol and Revolver |A. C. Gould
"What we call a rim-fire saddle," laughed Searles, who joined the conversation.

John Ermine of the Yellowstone |Frederic Remington
It is also made for rifled small-arms especially for rim-fire rifles.

The New Gresham Encyclopedia |Various
You say, Mr. Hale, the prisoner told you the night you spent at his home that this rifle was rim-fire?

The Trail of the Lonesome Pine |John Fox, Jr.

Prob'ly they're center-fire ca'tridges for rim-fire guns, or vicy-versy.

The Wilderness Trail |Frank Williams

rim-fire

(of a cartridge) having the primer in the rim of the base

(of a firearm) adapted for such cartridges

Compare centre-fire