What is 22 Magnum ammo?🤔
It is officially known as the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR), which is a type of rimfire ammunition designed for firearms chambered in .22 Magnum caliber. It was developed by Winchester in the early 1960s as a more powerful alternative to the popular .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) ammunition.
Features✍️
22 Magnum ammo has several distinctive features that set it apart from other ammunition types. Here are some key ones:
☑️ Increased Power: One of the primary features is its increased power compared to .22 LR. This cartridge contains more powder and propellant, resulting in higher velocities and energy upon firing. This increased power gives it improved terminal ballistics and better performance at longer distances.
☑️ Bottleneck Design: It has a bottleneck design, where the casing diameter is smaller at the base and larger at the neck. This design allows for greater powder capacity, which contributes to higher velocities and increased energy.
☑️ Rimfire Primer: Like other rimfire cartridges, this ammo uses a rimfire primer, which is ignited by striking the rim of the cartridge’s base. This differs from centerfire cartridges that have the primer located in the center of the base.
☑️ Effective Range: Due to its increased power and higher velocities, it has a longer effective range compared to .22 LR. This can be advantageous when shooting at longer distances.
☑️ Moderate Recoil: While this cartridge is more powerful than .22 LR, it still produces relatively low recoil. This makes it suitable for shooters of all skill levels, including beginners.
Benefits🔥
22 Magnum ammo offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for shooters in various scenarios. Here are some of the key advantages:
⚡ The ammo is well-suited for hunting small to medium-sized game animals like rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and other varmints. The combination of higher velocity and energy provides improved terminal ballistics, increasing the likelihood of clean and humane kills.
⚡ It is generally known for its accuracy, making it a good choice for precision shooting, plinking, and target practice. The combination of increased power and accuracy is valuable for improving shooting skills.
⚡ .22 Magnum firearms are available in both rifles and handguns, allowing shooters to choose a platform that suits their preferences and intended use. This versatility makes it adaptable to a wide range of shooting activities.
⚡ Such ammo is often more affordable than larger caliber ammunition, which can make it a cost-effective option for those who want to engage in regular shooting activities without breaking the bank.
Ballistics Performance📝
The ballistics of .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR), include various factors that determine its performance in terms of velocity, trajectory, energy, and terminal ballistics. Here are some general characteristics:
✴️ Velocity: This ammo typically achieves higher velocities due to its increased powder load. Depending on the specific load and bullet type, velocities can range from around 1,500 to 2,200 feet per second (fps) or more. |
✴️ Trajectory: The increased velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory, this means that the bullet drops less over a given distance, making it easier to achieve accurate shots at longer ranges. |
✴️ Energy: The combination of higher velocity and bullet weight results in greater muzzle energy for a .22 Magnum. Depending on the specific load, it can deliver muzzle energies ranging from approximately 150 to 300 foot pounds (ft-lbs) or more. |
✴️ Effective Range: The increased velocity and flatter trajectory extend its effective range. While the exact effective range varies based on factors like bullet weight and barrel length, this ammo can be effective out to distances of 100 to 150 yards for accurate shooting. |
✴️ Terminal Ballistics: Its increased energy and bullet design contribute to improved terminal ballistics. This means that the bullet is more likely to deliver sufficient energy to incapacitate or dispatch small game animals and varmints. The effectiveness of terminal ballistics depends on factors such as shot placement and bullet design (hollow points, soft points, etc.). |
✴️ Penetration: The higher velocity can lead to deeper penetration. This can be advantageous for hunting and pest control, as it increases the likelihood of reaching vital organs or causing significant damage. |
✴️ Bullet Types: Such ammo is available in various bullet types, including hollow points, soft points, and ballistic tips. Each bullet type has its characteristics that affect expansion, penetration, and terminal performance. |
✴️ Recoil: While the .22 Magnum produces more recoil than the .22 LR, it still generates relatively mild recoil. This makes it manageable for shooters of various skill levels, including beginners. |
📌 Keep in mind that specific ballistics can vary depending on the manufacturer, bullet design, and firearm used.
Best 22 Magnum Ammo Reviews
1# 22 WMR – CCI Maxi Mag TNT – 30 Grain JHP – 50 Rounds
CCI’s Maxi-Mag line of 22WMR ammunition is perfect for those who want to take down varmints quickly and efficiently. The “explosive” TNT 30 grain JHP varmint killing round is blisteringly fast, and based on patented Speer Gold Dot R&D. You’re sure to get a kick out of the flips you’ll get when you pop a pesky varmint with these awesome rounds. Each round is a non-corrosive, rimfire-primed brass case packed in a great reusable plastic tray. Order your box of 50 rounds today and be ready for varmint season!
2# 22 WMR – Hornady – 30 gr V-Max – 50 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGanner
Need ammunition that is accurate, reliable, and fast? Pay attention to Hornady Rimfire Ammunition. These rounds are perfect for those who want to hunt small animals or varmints. Our analysis of this product showed that they are offered in a variety of different calibers to ensure that you can find the perfect one for your needs. With their high level of accuracy and performance, you can be confident that you will hit your target every time. Order your Hornady Rimfire Ammunition today!
3# 22 WMR – V-Max Winchester Varmint HV – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds
Wish to find an effective way to take down pesky critters on your property? Winchester’s 22 WMR rounds with 30-grain V-Max bullets are just what you need. These bullets are designed for humane kills on anything from a prairie dog to a coyote, and can even be used on smaller wild boar. The V-Max bullet was created by Hornady specifically for hunting and is available in multiple calibers. They have a polymer tip that expands and fragments upon impact, causing devastating damage to soft tissue. Try this quality ammunition just now!
4# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Maxi-Mag – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds
Searching for a powerful and accurate rimfire cartridge? Look no further than CCI’s Maxi-Mag TNT. This 30-grain jacketed hollow point bullet is perfect for plinking or target shooting, and its explosive expansion on impact is sure to impress. As a result of our tests, we determined that the nickel-plated cases and double-sealing provide reliable feeding and ignition, while the flat-flying projectile is accurate at medium and long ranges. Don’t wait – order this ammo just now!
5# 22 WMR – Remington Magnum Rimfire – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
The Remington Magnum Rimfire .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire 40 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Brass Cased Rimfire Ammunition is a great choice for small game hunting. The 40-grain bullet is designed for quick expansion and the brass casing is reloadable for those who like to shoot more than once. With a muzzle velocity of 1910 ft/s, this ammunition has the power you need to take down your target quickly and efficiently. Say goodbye to complicated jobs and hello to the simplicity and quality of this rimfire ammunition!
6# 22 WMR – Remington Premier Rimfire – 33 Grain – 50 Rounds
If you want to purchase a rimfire cartridge with the accuracy and expansion of a centerfire, take a look at Remington Premier Rimfire. Because of our knowledge gained through practice, the AccuTip-V polymer tip provides incredible shot-to-shot consistency, while the flat trajectory ensures dependable accuracy at range. So whether you’re plinking at the range or hunting small game, Premier Rimfire is the perfect choice for crisp, clean results. Try it today!
7# 22 WMR – Federal Premium Small Game – 50 Grain – 50 Rounds
If you require high-quality ammunition that will perform well in any situation, consider Federal Game-Shok Rimfire Ammunition. These rounds are copper-plated and have solid or hollow point options, so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible performance out of your firearm. With a range of calibers to choose from, there’s an ammunition option that’s perfect for your needs. Whether you’re hunting small game or varmints, these rounds will get the job done right.
8# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Maxi-Mag – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
Demanding high-velocity, long-range performance in a .22 Magnum rimfire cartridge? Have a look at CCI Maxi-Mag! These rounds feature a Jacketed Hollow Point bullet design that transfers tremendous energy to the target on impact, and clean-burning propellants and CCI priming ensure the most consistent ballistics. With a muzzle velocity of 1875 feet per second, these rounds are ideal for taking down varmints at long range. So don’t let the small caliber fool you – with this ammo, you’ll get big performance in a small package. Order your 50-round box today!
9# 22 WMR – Federal Premium Varmint & Predator Speer TNT – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds
Whether you’re out hunting small game or varmints, you need ammunition that you can rely on to perform. Federal Premium V-Shok Rimfire Ammunition offers high-performing rounds that are designed for accuracy. Based on our observations these rounds are fast and provide terminal expansion upon impact, making them ideal for taking down your target. With a variety of calibers to choose from, you can find the perfect match for your weapon. Federal Premium is a trusted brand among professional shooters and has helped the U.S. team bring home medals from the Olympic Games.
10# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Rimfire Shotshell Pest Control – 52 Grain – 20 Rounds
Looking for a way to exterminate close-range pests? Pay attention to the CCI Ammunition Rimfire Shotshell Pest Control. This ammunition is designed to allow you to use your favorite rimfire rifle or pistol like a shotgun, making it easier to hit your target. The payload of fine pellets is pushed by consistent propellant and reliable CCI priming for patterns you can count on every time. So don’t let pesky pests ruin your day – pick up some boxes of rounds and take care of business.
11# 22 WMR – Federal Premium BYOB – 50 Grain – 250 Rounds
Do you need a fun and easy way to enjoy your next range day? Federal Premium has you covered with their BYOB rimfire buckets and bottles. These containers are loaded with high-quality 17 HMR, 22 LR, or 22 WMR rounds, perfect for a day of shooting fun. The packs come with lids that can be removed completely or left on to use the easy-pour feature. So whether you’re looking to shoot some targets or take down some small game, Federal Premium has the ammunition you need to make the most of your day.
12# 22 WMR – Remington Magnum Rimfire – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
The Remington Magnum Rimfire .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire 40 Grain Pointed Soft Point Brass Cartridge gives shooters the choice of quick expansion with a jacketed hollow point or optimum penetration with a pointed soft point. Because of our knowledge gained through practice both of these 40-grain bullets have muzzle velocities of 1,910 feet per second and retain their down-range energy, making them ideal for small game hunting. Don’t wait – order it just now!
13# 22 WMR – Winchester SuperR-X Rimfire – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
From Winchester, the brand that has been trusted by hunters and shooters for over a century comes Super-X rimfire ammunition. This .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire ammunition is faultless for varmint, predator, and small game hunting, thanks to the 40-grain jacketed hollow point bullet. The bullet is designed for controlled expansion, making it ideal for taking down your target quickly and cleanly. With a muzzle velocity of 1910 ft/s and 324 ft-lbs of energy, this ammunition packs a serious punch. The brass cartridge case ensures reliable feeding and ejection in your rifle, while the box packaging makes it easy to store and transport. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-time shooter, you can trust this rimfire ammunition to deliver the performance you need to take down your game.
14# 22 WMR – Browning BPR – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
Wishing for high-performance rimfire rifle ammunition? Pay attention to Browning BPR .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire 40 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Rimfire Rifle Ammunition. This ammo is designed for smooth feeding, reliable extraction, and consistent performance. It features a jacketed hollow point bullet and comes packaged at 50 per box, 20 per case. Whether you’re taking down varmints or just plinking cans in the backyard, such ammunition will give you the results you’re looking for. Order your box today!
15# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition MeatEater Series Maxi-Mag – 40 Grain – 200 Rounds
Introducing CCI’s MeatEater Series Maxi-Mag .22 WMR! These 40-grain jackets provide you with plenty of stopping power, and with a muzzle velocity of 1875 fps, they’re sure to pack a punch. It is perfect for those who demand reliable performance from their firearm. As a result of using this product, we found that with surefire CCI priming and high-quality bullets, you can be confident that every shot will hit its mark. So grab a box of this ammo today and start making your shots count!
16# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Maxi-Mag – 46 Grain – 50 Rounds
Presenting the new CCI Maxi-Mag 22 WMR ammunition! This innovative new ammunition is outstanding for those who want to extend the range and power of their 22 WMR firearms. The exclusive polymer bullet coating greatly reduces copper and lead fouling in the barrel, without leaving any residue. It also cuts lead buildup in suppressors by 60 to 80 percent. The 46-grain segmented hollow point bullet splits into three equal-size pieces on impact, creating three times the number of wound channels. The polymer bullet coating allows this separation at much lower velocities and over longer distances than a conventional copper jacket. The bullet’s overall geometry is optimized for accuracy, and the CCI priming and propellant provide flawless cycling through semi-automatics and all 22 WMR firearms. Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking new ammunition – pick up a box today!
17# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition VNT – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds
Need to take your varmint hunting or target shooting to the next level? CCI has you covered with their VNT line of ammunition. Using this product, our team found that this .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire round features a Speer bullet with an extremely thin jacket and polymer tip. The result is flat trajectories, superb long-range accuracy, and explosive terminal performance on impact. In other words, it’s the perfect round for taking down pesky varmints or hitting bullseyes at the range. So don’t settle for second best, pick up a box of these rounds today.
18# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Gamepoint – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
CCI Gamepoint ammunition is the ideal choice for small game hunting. As a result of using this product, we found that the Dimple Tip allows the bullet to expand like a big game bullet for maximum energy transfer, while the accurate, powerful load minimizes meat and hides damage. With this ammunition, you’ll have the confidence and performance you need to take down any small game. Don’t miss the opportunity to get an excellent performance – order such ammo just now!
19# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition V-Max – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds
Searching to extend the range of your rimfire firearm? Then check out this CCI Ammunition V-Max .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire 30 Grain Hornady V-Max Rimfire Ammunition. These rounds are loaded with the Hornady V-Max bullet, a polymer-tipped design that produces flat trajectories, extreme accuracy, and explosive expansion on impact. Perfect for taking down varmints, these rounds are reliable and accurate, making them a great choice for any hunter or marksman. So don’t miss your chance to pick up this great ammunition today!
20# 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Maxi-Mag – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
.22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire cartridge is a 40-grain lead bullet encased in a copper jacket to provide unrivaled accuracy. As a result of our tests, we determined that the loads leave the muzzle at 1875 fps and use CCI priming and brass for consistency. Whether you’re shooting targets or plinking, Maxi-Mag TMJ is an excellent choice. Say goodbye to complicated jobs and hello to the simplicity and quality of these 40-grain rounds!
21# 22 WMR – Speer Gold Dot – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds
Searching for hh-performance rimfire ammunition that can be used in short-barrel firearms? Pay attention to Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel 22 WMR. These rounds are designed to expand reliably and penetrate deeply, making them a great choice for self-defense. The hollow point bullet ensures consistent expansion and penetration, while the brass cartridge case provides maximum durability. This quality-made ammunition is an awesome choice for your needs!
22# 22 WMR – Winchester Dynapoint – 45 Grain – 50 Rounds
The Winchester Dynapoint .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire 45-grain Copper Plated Hollow Point Rimfire Ammunition is good for recreational shooting, varmint hunting, and predator control. With 50 rounds in each box, this ammunition is a great value for any hunter or shooter. The jacketed hollow point bullet is designed for maximum expansion and penetration, while the brass cartridge case ensures reliable feeding and extraction. The high muzzle velocity of 1550 ft/s provides a flat trajectory and superb accuracy, making this ammo ideal for small game hunting and plinking.
23# 22 WMR – Winchester Varmint HV – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds
The Winchester Varmint HV .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire 30 Grain Polymer Tip Rimfire Ammunition is a wonderful choice for varmint and small game hunting. With high velocity and precision accuracy, this load provides the lethal performance needed for long-range situations. Because of our knowledge gained through practice, the Spitzer flat base bullet design provides superior ballistic performance, and the brass cartridge case ensures reliable feeding and function. It’s also lead-free, making it safe for use in areas where lead-based ammunition is not allowed.
24# 22 WMR – Federal Premium Personal Defense Punch Rimfire – 22 Grain – 50 Rounds
Different shooters have different needs when it comes to self-defense. Some people may not feel comfortable carrying a centerfire firearm, while others may want a backup gun that they can rely on. Federal Premium’s new line of Personal Defense Punch Rimfire ammunition is the perfect solution for those who want the versatility and reliability of rimfire in a self-defense situation. The loads’ nickel-plated lead-core bullet is designed to minimize expansion and achieve critical penetration depths through short-barrel handguns. string function testing also ensures the most reliable ignition, cycling, and overall performance.
How much better is .22 Mag than .22 LR?📢
.22 Magnum (.22 WMR) and .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) are two distinct cartridges with different characteristics, and their performance varies in several ways. While the .22 Magnum offers certain advantages over the .22 LR, how much “better” it is depends on the intended use and the specific performance requirements of the shooter. Here are some key points of comparison:
🟣 Power and Energy: | 22 Magnum has significantly more power and energy than .22 LR due to its larger case and increased powder load. This translates to higher velocities and more kinetic energy upon impact. .22 Magnum is generally better suited for hunting and pest control due to its improved terminal ballistics. |
🟣 Terminal Ballistics: | It typically offers better terminal ballistics than .22 LR. The increased energy and velocity of .22 Magnum make it more effective at delivering stopping power and causing damage to small game animals and varmints. |
🟣 Effective Range: | This ammo has a longer effective range than .22 LR due to its flatter trajectory and higher velocities. It can maintain accuracy over greater distances, making it suitable for shooting at targets or hunting at extended ranges. |
🟣 Accuracy: | Both the .22 Magnum and .22 LR can be accurate, but the .22 Magnum’s higher velocities can contribute to better accuracy at longer distances. However, .22 LR is often used in precision target shooting and has excellent accuracy potential as well. |
🟣 Recoil: | It generates more recoil than .22 LR, but the recoil is still relatively mild. This can make the .22 Magnum manageable for shooters of different skill levels, although the .22 LR’s lower recoil is more beginner-friendly. |
🟣 Ammunition Availability and Cost: | 22 LR is more widely available and generally less expensive compared to the .22 Magnum. This can make the .22 LR a more economical choice for plinking and casual shooting. |
🟣 Firearm Selection: | Both .22 Magnum and .22 LR are available in various firearm types, including rifles and handguns. The availability of firearms chambered in each caliber can influence your choice based on your preferences. |
😉 In summary, .22 Magnum offers clear advantages in terms of power, terminal ballistics, and effective range compared to .22 LR. It’s better suited for hunting and shooting at longer distances. However, the .22 LR still has its strengths, including widespread availability, lower cost, and suitability for target shooting and casual plinking. The choice between them depends on your intended use, shooting preferences, and the specific benefits you’re seeking from the ammunition.
FAQ🤓
Conclusion🙂
In conclusion, the .22 Magnum ammunition is a versatile and powerful option for a variety of applications, including hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. We’ve provided some of the best ammo available on the market to help you choose the right round for your needs. With so many great options available, there’s sure to be a cartridge that meets your requirements. Thanks for reading!🤠👍
Affiliate Disclosure: Rotorm.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Optics Planet, Lucky Gunner, Brownells, Cabelas, Rainier Arms, 5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shop, etс. Clicking a link helps keep Rotorm.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article on our site is written by experts in survival and tactical equipment, gun enthusiasts, extreme travelers, military, law enforcement and desperate professionals, read about the author at the bottom of the article or visit "About Us" page.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.
What’s your take on the best .22 ammo?
In my experience, the best .22 ammo is the one that performs optimally in your specific .22 firearm. I maintain a selection of four different brands and types for my various .22 rifles and handguns. Among these options, 22 WMR – Federal Premium Varmint & Predator Speer TNT – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds stands out as the economical choice that most of my guns tend to prefer. About five out of my seven firearms show a strong preference for 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition Maxi-Mag – 46 Grain – 50 Rounds, which seem to deliver consistent results and reliable performance.
From what I’ve found, 22 WMR – Browning BPR – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds stands out as one of the most consistently accurate options. I’ve also noticed that my rifle can handle the more budget-friendly ammunition, although the accuracy does suffer as a result.
I carry a G19 personally and haven’t found a strong need to opt for a smaller firearm. Yet, I’m intrigued by the overall effectiveness and the consensus concerning .22 Mag for self-defense. Would it be worth investing in?
I often use a 22 WMR – Federal Premium Varmint & Predator Speer TNT – 30 Grain – 50 Rounds. Interestingly, it serves as a sort of mini flash-bang, capable of startling anyone around with its impressive fireball upon firing. It’s quite a sight to see!
I’ve found that the 22 Mag can achieve the necessary penetration when using the appropriate ammunition under the right conditions. While I firmly believe that shot placement takes precedence over penetration, and penetration remains crucial, the aspect of expansion holds significant importance. This holds particularly true when considering the substantial reduction in effectiveness for the 22 Mag, which differs notably from the narrower gap between 9mm and 45.
I find the 22 Mag to be quite fascinating as a cartridge, and I’m quite a fan of its unique qualities. Surprisingly, many different off-the-shelf ammo brands “technically” meet the standards for self-defense purposes. I often use a 22 WMR – CCI Ammunition MeatEater Series Maxi-Mag – 40 Grain – 200 Rounds – it’s an excellent choice!
I’m curious to know about the most accurate .22 Mag ammo that anyone has used or currently uses. Your insights would be appreciated.
For me, the 22 WMR – Hornady – 30 Gr V-Max – 50 Rounds stands out as the most accurate .22 mag ammo. It has consistently performed well across all three rifles I’ve owned: the Anschutz 1516 HD, Custom Winchester Highwall, and Savage A22 Magnum. I conducted tests at 100 yards, and the results have been impressive.
In my experience, the 22 WMR – Speer Gold Dot – 40 Grain – 50 Rounds has proven to be the most outstanding load I’ve ever experimented with at 100 yards. It’s remarkable how much rimfire ammo has advanced since I began in the mid-sixties. I highly recommend giving it a try – you’re likely to be quite impressed!