The main difference between centerfire and rimfire ammunition lies in the location and design of the primer. In centerfire ammunition, the primer is located in the center of the cartridge case base, whereas in rimfire ammunition, the primer is located in the rim of the cartridge.

Here are some key differences between centerfire and rimfire ammunition:

1. Primer Design: In centerfire ammunition, the primer consists of a separate and replaceable component known as the primer cap or primer insert. This design allows for easy replacement of the primer, making centerfire cartridges reloadable. On the other hand, rimfire ammunition has the primer compound distributed within the rim of the cartridge case, making it a single-use design. Once the rimfire primer is struck and ignited, the cartridge cannot be reloaded.

2. Power and Caliber: Centerfire cartridges generally offer higher power and are available in a wider range of calibers compared to rimfire cartridges. Centerfire ammunition is used in a variety of firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns, for various purposes such as self-defense, hunting, and competition shooting. Rimfire ammunition, while limited in power and caliber, is commonly used in smaller calibers like .22LR for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting.

3. Manufacturing Complexity: The manufacturing process for centerfire ammunition is more complex and requires additional components, such as separate primers and primer pockets in the cartridge case. This complexity adds to the cost of production. In contrast, rimfire ammunition has a simpler design with the primer compound directly applied to the rim of the cartridge case. This simplicity contributes to lower production costs.

The cost difference between centerfire and rimfire ammunition is primarily due to the manufacturing process and materials involved. Rimfire ammunition is generally less expensive because it requires fewer components and simpler manufacturing techniques. Additionally, the popularity and high demand for .22LR rimfire ammunition contribute to economies of scale, making it more affordable compared to less commonly used centerfire calibers.

It's important to note that the availability and cost of ammunition can fluctuate based on various factors, such as supply and demand dynamics, raw material costs, and market conditions.