Ever needed to take care of a snake in the garden, a rat in the barn, or a grouse on the trail without carrying a full-sized shotgun? That’s the exact scenario where a box of CCI Shotshell 22LR becomes more than just ammo—it’s a practical solution for the everyday outdoorsman.
Imbertsmithersarms is a Grand Forks, ND-based retailer specializing in firearms, ammunition, and gear for hunters and shooters. The CCI Shotshell 22LR Ammo 31 Grain Lead Shot is a specialized rimfire cartridge designed for close-range pest control and small game. Its unique #12 shot load offers a wider pattern than a standard bullet. We have it in stock and ready to ship today for $726.76, a significant saving from the regular $810.00 price.
Reviewed by Cody Ramirez, E-Commerce Director at Imbertsmithersarms. 11 years building firearms retail platforms, SEO and conversion specialist.
Last updated: April 2026
Why Choose CCI Shotshell 22LR Ammo?
Living up here in North Dakota, I see the utility of this ammo firsthand. It’s not your everyday plinking round. This is a tool for a specific job. When you’re walking a fence line and spot a rattler, or you’ve got rodents getting into your feed, pulling out a .22 rifle loaded with these shotshells is a whole lot more convenient—and often safer for the surroundings—than a shotgun. For the budget-conscious shooter who needs an effective, low-recoil pest control option, this CCI load is a mainstay. It fits the concealed carry lifestyle of the landowner who keeps a rifle in the truck for just such occasions.
CCI Shotshell 22LR Ammo 31 Grain Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Rimfire Ammunition / Shotshell |
| Material | Lead Shot (#12), Brass Casing, Copper-Plated Primer |
| Manufacturing | CCI (Cascade Cartridges Inc.) / Vista Outdoor |
| Finish | Standard Brass Case, Red Plastic Capsule Tip |
| Hardness/Quality | Commercial Grade, Consistent Ignition & Powder Charge |
| Compatibility | .22 Long Rifle Chambered Firearms (Rifles & Revolvers) |
| Installation/Usage | Standard Rimfire Loading & Firing |
| Weight (Per Round) | Approximately 31 Grains (Total Projectile Weight) |
| Dimensions (Cartridge) | Standard .22 LR Dimensions (0.226″ Dia. x ~0.985″ Length) |
| Country of Origin | United States of America |
| Condition | New, Factory Fresh |
| SKU | 0035 (Common CCI Shotshell Product Code) |
How Does CCI Shotshell Compare to Other Pest Control Ammo?
When you’re looking at close-range solutions, you generally have three tiers: cheap .22 rat shot from unknown origins, trusted brands like CCI, and moving up to .410 shotgun shells. Here’s a head-to-head to put your money in perspective.
| Feature | CCI Shotshell 22LR (This Product) | Generic/Import .22 “Rat Shot” | .410 Bore 2.5″ Shotshells |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Brass case, reliable primer, consistent powder & shot load. | Often steel or poor-quality brass cases, inconsistent loads. | Plastic hull, brass head, various shot sizes (e.g., #7.5, #9). |
| Quality & Reliability | High. Consistent ignition and pattern from a major US brand. | Low. High chance of misfires, squibs, or poor patterns. | High (from major brands). Designed specifically for shot patterns. |
| Compatibility | Any .22 LR rifle or revolver. Extremely versatile. | Any .22 LR firearm, but risk of fouling or stuck cases. | Requires a .410 shotgun or firearm chambered for it. |
| Shipping & Cost Per Round | Easily shipped. Higher per-round cost than generic .22 LR. | Easily shipped. Very low initial cost per round. | Heavier, higher shipping cost. Generally higher per-round cost. |
| Effective Lifespan / Range | ~10-15 feet for reliable pest-sized pattern. | <10 feet, pattern deteriorates quickly due to poor quality. | ~20-30 yards for small game/pests with proper choke. |
| Price Point (Approx.) | Mid-Range (~$0.30-$0.50/rd for specialty ammo). | Budget (<$0.15/rd). | Premium (>$0.75/rd). |
The Pros and Cons of CCI 22LR Shotshells
Based on handling and customer feedback over the years, here’s the straight talk.
Pros:
- ✅ Extreme Convenience: Turns any .22 rifle into a miniature shotgun for immediate pest problems.
- ✅ Safety in Populated Areas: Minimal risk of ricochet compared to a solid bullet, safer for barns and outbuildings.
- ✅ Proven Reliability: CCI’s priming and manufacturing ensure it goes bang when you need it to.
- ✅ Great for Small Game: Effective on snakes, rats, and at very close ranges, grouse or squirrels.
- ✅ Low Recoil and Report: Much quieter and softer-shooting than a .410, great for new shooters or sensitive areas.
Cons:
- ❌ Very Limited Range: Don’t expect effectiveness past 15 feet. The pattern spreads fast and loses energy. For longer-range pest control, you’ll want to see our standard .22 LR ammo.
- ❌ Not for Precision: This is not target ammo. The plastic capsule can affect point of impact compared to standard rounds. Always test in your firearm.
- ❌ Specialized Use: It sits in your ammo can until a specific need arises. It’s not an “everyday” cartridge.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This Ammo
Buy it if: You’re a homesteader, farmer, or rural property owner who encounters snakes or rodents regularly. You’re a hunter who wants a lightweight, quiet option for flushing grouse at very close range in thick cover. You keep a .22 rifle in your truck or barn as a dedicated “tool” for pest control. You value the reliability of a major US brand over questionable imports.
Skip it if: Your primary need is target shooting or hunting small game beyond 20 yards. You’re looking for a general-purpose .22 LR round for plinking. In that case, browse our full selection of .22 LR ammunition for high-quality options. You need to dispatch larger pests like raccoons or groundhogs at any real distance—a centerfire cartridge or shotgun would be more appropriate.
Have More Questions? See It in Action
Sometimes you need to see the pattern and how it performs. Check out real user reviews and tests online.
Frequently Asked Questions About CCI Shotshells
Where can I buy CCI Shotshell 22LR ammo online?
You can order CCI Shotshell 22LR Ammo 31 Grain Lead Shot online right here at Imbertsmithersarms (imbertsmithersarms.com). We ship quickly and discreetly from our warehouse in Grand Forks, ND.
Will CCI Shotshells cycle in my semi-automatic .22 rifle?
It can be hit or miss. The plastic capsule and different pressure curve sometimes don’t provide enough energy to reliably cycle the action. They work most reliably in bolt-action, lever-action, single-shot, or revolver .22s. Test a few in your semi-auto first.
What is the effective range for pest control?
For reliable effectiveness on pests like snakes and rats, keep your shots inside 10-15 feet (about 3-5 yards). The pattern spreads quickly, and the individual #12 shot pellets lose energy fast beyond that.
Can I use this for hunting small game like squirrels?
Only at extremely close ranges (under 10 yards) and with very precise shot placement. The pattern is small and the energy is low. It’s more ethical and effective for birds like grouse or ptarmigan in thick brush at spitting distance. For typical squirrel hunting, a standard .22 LR hollow point is a better choice.
Does the plastic capsule harm my rifle’s barrel?
No. The capsule is designed to disintegrate upon exiting the muzzle. It’s made of a thin, brittle plastic that poses no threat of fouling or damaging a standard .22 LR barrel.
Is this ammo good for self-defense?
No. This is pest control ammunition. The limited penetration and range make it unsuitable for defensive use against two-legged threats. It is not recommended for any self-defense scenario.
How should I store this ammo?
Like all ammunition, store in a cool, dry place. The plastic capsule tips are durable but keep them away from extreme heat which could potentially warp them. A standard ammo can on a shelf in your garage or basement is perfect.
Ready to Order? Here’s What You Can Expect
✅ Same-day shipping from Grand Forks, ND
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
This CCI Shotshell ammo is a niche product, but for the person who needs it, it’s irreplaceable. At our sale price of $726.76, you’re getting a reliable, American-made solution for those close-quarter pest problems without the noise and bulk of a shotgun.
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About this review: This assessment is based on 11 years of industry experience, direct product handling, and consistent customer feedback at Imbertsmithersarms. Our goal is to provide practical, honest information to help you make an informed purchase. Last updated: April 2026




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