What Is .22 WMR

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Last updated: April 10, 2026

Quick Answer: The .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) is a rimfire cartridge introduced by Winchester in 1959, delivering approximately 325 foot-pounds of muzzle energy at velocities around 2,200 feet per second. It offers significantly greater power and effective range than the .22 Long Rifle, making it a popular choice for varmint hunting and small game control.

Key Facts

Introduced by Winchester in 1959 as a more powerful alternative to the .22 Long Rifle
Produces approximately 325 foot-pounds of muzzle energy with velocities ranging from 2,000-2,200 feet per second
Effective hunting range extends to approximately 125 yards for small game and varmints
Ammunition costs between $0.25-0.50 per round, significantly more expensive than .22 LR but still budget-friendly
Remains the most popular magnum rimfire cartridge in North America for hunting applications

Overview

The .22 WMR, also known as .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, is a rimfire cartridge that has served hunters and sport shooters for over six decades. Introduced by Winchester in 1959, the .22 WMR was designed to bridge the gap between the lightweight .22 Long Rifle and larger centerfire cartridges, offering superior power while maintaining affordability and minimal recoil.

The cartridge became one of the most popular magnum rimfire options in North America, prized for varmint control, small game hunting, and recreational shooting. Its combination of moderate power, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness has made it a staple in firearms arsenals across rural and suburban areas. Today, the .22 WMR remains widely available through ammunition manufacturers and retailers, with numerous rifle and handgun platforms chambered for this versatile round.

How It Works

The .22 WMR functions as a rimfire cartridge, meaning the firing pin strikes the rim of the case to detonate the primer, distinguishing it from centerfire ammunition. Understanding its mechanical operation helps explain its popularity:

Rimfire Ignition: Unlike centerfire cartridges with a primer in the center of the case head, the .22 WMR's priming compound is distributed around the rim, allowing simpler and less expensive firearms design.
Ballistic Performance: The round generates approximately 325 foot-pounds of muzzle energy with velocities ranging from 2,000 to 2,200 feet per second depending on barrel length and ammunition manufacturer specifications.
Accuracy Characteristics: The .22 WMR is known for excellent accuracy at moderate distances, with flat enough trajectory for effective shooting to approximately 125 yards on small game and varmints.
Ammunition Configuration: Cartridges typically weigh 40 grains, with bullets designed as either hollow-point for expansion on small game or solid point for deeper penetration and reduced deflection.
Recoil and Handling: The cartridge produces minimal recoil, making it ideal for shooters of various skill levels, youth hunters, and those sensitive to recoil impulse from larger calibers.

Key Comparisons

Understanding how the .22 WMR compares to other ammunition options helps determine its appropriate applications:

Characteristic	.22 WMR	.22 Long Rifle	.17 HMR
Introduction Year	1959	1884	2002
Muzzle Velocity	2,000-2,200 fps	1,000-1,400 fps	2,550 fps
Muzzle Energy	~325 ft-lbs	~140 ft-lbs	~245 ft-lbs
Effective Range	~125 yards	~50-75 yards	~150-200 yards
Cost Per Round	$0.25-0.50	$0.10-0.20	$0.35-0.60
Primary Use	Varmint hunting, small game	Target shooting, small game	Precision varmint work

Why It Matters

The .22 WMR occupies a unique position in the ammunition spectrum, offering practical advantages for specific hunting and shooting applications:

Cost-Effective Hunting: The .22 WMR provides significantly more power than .22 LR while remaining far less expensive than centerfire cartridges, making it economical for extended hunting sessions and practice shooting.
Varmint Control: Ranchers and property owners rely on the .22 WMR for controlling destructive varmints such as prairie dogs, groundhogs, and coyotes at moderate distances without excessive damage to hides or requiring large ammunition expenses.
Youth and Novice Shooter Development: The minimal recoil and noise level make the .22 WMR ideal for introducing young hunters to marksmanship fundamentals and building confidence before transitioning to larger calibers.
Accessibility: Rifles and handguns chambered in .22 WMR remain widely manufactured by major firearms producers, and ammunition availability is reliable across most regions of North America.

The .22 WMR represents a proven cartridge that has maintained its relevance for nearly seven decades through consistent performance and versatility. Whether used by farmers managing pest populations, recreational shooters honing accuracy skills, or hunters pursuing small game, the .22 WMR continues to demonstrate the enduring appeal of a well-designed, practical firearm cartridge that balances power, cost, and ease of use.