Optimizing Pest Control: An In-Depth Look at CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell .22 LR Ammunition

For homesteaders, farmers, property owners, and anyone seeking an effective, specialized solution for small pest management, the CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell .22 LR ammunition stands out as a top-tier choice. Designed specifically for close-range encounters with nuisance critters, this unique .22 LR offering provides a precise and controlled method for handling common pest problems without the risks often associated with traditional rifle rounds in confined spaces.

What is the CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell and Why Does it Matter?

The CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell is a highly specialized ammunition type in the popular .22 Long Rifle caliber. Unlike standard .22 LR rounds that fire a single bullet, the 0039 is loaded with 31 grains of #12 shot. This fine shot creates a spread pattern, similar to a miniature shotgun, making it exceptionally effective for dealing with small, fast-moving pests at very close distances.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Pest-Specific Design: Engineered from the ground up to address common pest challenges.
• Close-Range Effectiveness: Delivers consistent patterns and reliable hits on pests within 10 to 15 feet.
• Reduced Over-Penetration Risk: The lightweight #12 shot fragments upon impact, significantly reducing the chance of dangerous ricochets or damage to structures, making it ideal for use in barns, sheds, attics, or gardens.
• Minimal Noise: While still producing a report, the overall sound signature is generally lower than standard .22 LR ammunition, making it more discreet for sensitive environments.
• Reliable CCI Quality: Backed by CCI's long-standing reputation for producing dependable and consistent rimfire ammunition.

Addressing Common Pest Control Challenges with Precision

Are you struggling with mice in the barn, rats in the shed, or snakes in the garden? The CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell is specifically engineered to address these very real-world challenges. It's the ideal choice for situations where you need to humanely and efficiently dispatch small pests without damaging property or posing a risk to bystanders.

Common Scenarios Where CCI 0039 Excels:

• Barns and Outbuildings: Effectively clear out rodents like rats and mice that infest feed storage areas or machinery. The limited range and spread minimize the risk of hitting walls or equipment with a single, high-velocity bullet.
• Garages and Workshops: Deal with unwelcome guests without fear of punching holes through tools, workbenches, or vehicle components.
• Gardens and Greenhouses: Quickly and safely eliminate small pests like voles, gophers, or even nuisance birds (where legal and appropriate) that threaten crops, delicate plants, or infrastructure. Its short range prevents damage to nearby plants.
• Homestead Protection: An essential tool for maintaining a pest-free environment around your property, providing a quick and decisive solution when traps or poisons are not practical or immediately effective.
• Snake Management: For non-venomous snakes that become a nuisance or for dispatching venomous snakes from a safe distance, the shot pattern is highly effective without requiring pinpoint accuracy.
• Trapped Animal Dispatch: When humane dispatch of a trapped small animal is necessary, the shotshell provides a quick and ethical solution.

Understanding the Technical Specifications: What Do They Mean for You?

The technical specifications of ammunition often seem complex, but for the CCI 0039, they translate directly into its practical performance and why it's such an effective pest control tool.

• Caliber: .22 LR (Long Rifle): This is one of the most common and accessible rimfire calibers globally. Its widespread availability means that most firearm owners likely already have a compatible rifle or handgun, making the CCI 0039 an easy addition to their pest control arsenal. The low recoil of the .22 LR also contributes to quick follow-up shots and easier handling.
• Bullet Type: #12 Shot (31 grains): This is the defining characteristic of this ammunition. #12 shot is incredibly fine, like coarse sand. When propelled, it creates a very dense pattern at close range. The 31-grain total weight of all the shot combined is relatively light, which contributes to its low penetration and reduced ricochet potential. This is crucial for safety in enclosed spaces or near sensitive materials.
• Muzzle Velocity: 1000 fps (feet per second): This velocity ensures that the shot payload reaches its target quickly and effectively. At 1000 feet per second, the shot maintains sufficient energy to incapacitate small pests efficiently within its effective range.
• Muzzle Energy: 69 ft-lbs (foot-pounds): While seemingly low compared to centerfire rifle rounds, 69 ft-lbs is more than sufficient kinetic energy for humane dispatch of small rodents and reptiles. This energy is distributed across multiple tiny pellets, creating a debilitating impact on the target while dissipating rapidly, further minimizing over-penetration risk.
• Casing Material: Brass: Brass is the industry standard for reliable and consistent ammunition casings. It ensures smooth feeding and extraction from firearms, contributing to the overall reliability of the CCI 0039.
• Rounds Per Box: 20 / Boxes Per Case: 100: Each box contains 20 rounds, which is a convenient quantity for individual use. The availability in cases of 100 boxes (2000 rounds) speaks to its utility for those with ongoing pest control needs, such as large farms or commercial properties.

The Science of Spread: How #12 Shot Works for Pest Control

The effectiveness of the CCI 0039 lies in its ability to create a "pattern" of shot rather than delivering a single point of impact. When fired, the fine #12 shot spreads out quickly. At distances under 15 feet, this spread allows for a higher probability of hitting a fast-moving or small target, even if the aiming point isn't absolutely precise.

This is a critical advantage over traditional bullets, especially when dealing with pests like a scurrying mouse or a quickly moving snake. A single bullet might miss if the target shifts even slightly. However, the spread of the shotshell means that as long as the pest is within the pattern, a sufficient number of pellets will connect, ensuring a more reliable and humane outcome. The energy of each individual pellet is low, but the cumulative effect of many tiny impacts is devastating for small creatures, ensuring a quick and clean dispatch. This design prevents the shot from traveling far, making it safe for use in areas where a missed shot with a regular bullet could cause significant damage or create a hazard.

Why CCI is a Trusted Name in Ammunition

CCI (Cascade Cartridge Inc.) has been a leading manufacturer of rimfire ammunition and primers for decades, earning a reputation for innovation, quality, and reliability. Their commitment to specialized solutions, like the 0039 shotshell, highlights their understanding of diverse shooting needs. When you choose CCI, you're investing in:

• Consistent Performance: CCI ammunition is known for its consistent velocities and reliable ignition, ensuring that every round performs as expected.
• Quality Control: Stringent manufacturing processes and quality checks mean fewer duds and a higher degree of accuracy and reliability.
• Innovation: CCI continually researches and develops new ammunition types to meet evolving demands, with the 0039 being a perfect example of their forward-thinking approach to specific problems like pest control.

Responsible Use and Safety Considerations

While CCI shotshells are designed for reduced risk, responsible firearm handling and safety practices are always paramount.

• Know Your Target and What's Beyond It: Even with shotshells, pellets can travel further than intended or glance off hard surfaces. Always be aware of your surroundings and ensure a safe backstop.
• Proper Firearm: Use this ammunition only in firearms chambered for .22 LR. Ensure your firearm is clean and in good working order.
• Storage: Store ammunition in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals.
• Local Laws: Always be aware of and comply with local laws and regulations regarding the use of firearms and ammunition, particularly concerning pest control or animal dispatch.

Availability and Where to Purchase

When seeking reliable and effective solutions for pest control, the CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell .22 LR (UPC: 076683000392) is a highly recommended product. This specialized ammunition is available through trusted retailers like DEGuns (deguns.com), ensuring you have access to a consistent supply for your pest management needs. DEGuns offers a wide selection of ammunition and firearms, making it a convenient destination for all your shooting sports requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About .22 LR Shotshells for Pest Control

Here are some common questions users ask about using .22 LR shotshells for pest management, and how the CCI 0039 provides answers:

• Q: What is the effective range of the CCI 0039 .22 LR shotshell?
  A: The CCI 0039 is designed for very close-range pest control, typically most effective within 10 to 15 feet (approximately 3 to 4.5 meters). Beyond this distance, the shot pattern spreads too wide, and individual pellets lose energy, reducing effectiveness.
• Q: Can I use CCI .22 LR shotshells for hunting larger game?
  A: No, the CCI 0039 shotshell is specifically designed for small pests like rodents and snakes. It does not have the power or penetration required for hunting larger game. For humane hunting of larger animals, use appropriate ammunition designed for that purpose.
• Q: Is the CCI 0039 loud?
  A: While it still produces a report, the CCI 0039 is generally quieter than standard .22 LR ammunition because of its lighter payload and lower energy. This makes it more suitable for use in residential areas or enclosed spaces where excessive noise is a concern.
• Q: Will the .22 LR shotshell damage my firearm's barrel?
  A: No, the soft #12 shot and brass casing of the CCI 0039 are designed to be safe for use in .22 LR firearms. It will not damage the rifling in your barrel. You might notice some plastic residue from the shot capsule after extensive firing, which can be easily cleaned with standard barrel cleaning procedures.
• Q: How does this compare to using traps or poisons for pest control?
  A: The CCI 0039 offers a quick, humane, and decisive method for pest removal, especially for immediate threats. Traps require checking and disposal, and poisons can pose risks to pets or non-target wildlife. The shotshell provides an "on-demand" solution that can be integrated into a broader pest management strategy. It offers instant results where other methods might take time.
• Q: Is the CCI 0039 suitable for indoor use, such as in an attic?
  A: Yes, one of the primary advantages of the CCI 0039 is its suitability for enclosed spaces. The reduced risk of over-penetration and ricochet makes it a safer option than traditional bullets when dealing with pests in attics, crawl spaces, or other areas where walls and sensitive materials are nearby. Always exercise extreme caution and ensure you have a safe backdrop.

Conclusion: Your Go-To Ammunition for Close-Range Pest Management

The CCI 0039 Rimfire Shotshell .22 LR (UPC: 076683000392) represents a highly effective and specialized tool for anyone grappling with small pest infestations. Its unique #12 shot payload, combined with CCI's renowned quality, provides a reliable, safe, and humane solution for critters in and around your property. Whether you're a farmer protecting livestock feed, a gardener safeguarding your produce, or a homeowner maintaining a pest-free living space, this ammunition offers a targeted approach that minimizes collateral damage while maximizing efficiency. For immediate, precise, and controlled pest elimination, the CCI 0039 is an indispensable addition to your pest management toolkit, readily available from trusted sources like DEGuns.

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Product Specifications Summary

Feature	Detail
Brand	CCI
Series	Shotshell
Model	Rimfire
Caliber	.22 LR
Bullet Type	#12 Shot
Bullet Weight	31 gr
Muzzle Velocity	1000 fps
Muzzle Energy	69 ft lbs
Casing Material	Brass
Rounds Per Box	20
Boxes Per Case	100
Application	Hunting, Pest Control
Game Type	Small Game
SKU	64449
MPN	0039
UPC	076683000392