However, some designs such as semi-automatic rifles may not cycle reliably due to lower gas pressures. 22 Long Rifle can be safely used in the same firearms. The problem is, it is hard to find rifles chambered in these cartridges, so a natural question to ask is can a rifle use both. 22 caliber options can still be found today. 22 Long are some of the oldest American metallic cartridges around, being invented in 18 respectively.