Review: Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP
Overview
As an avid hunter and shooter, I was excited to get my hands on the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP cartridges. With their reputation for quality and performance, I was eager to put them through their paces and see how they would perform in the field. In this review, I’ll share my experience with these cartridges, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, and providing a comprehensive assessment of their performance.
Product Details
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Bullet Weight: 36 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: 1,160 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 220 ft-lbs
- Box Count: 100 rounds per box
Handling and Reliability
I fired the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP cartridges in a variety of firearms, including both bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles. I was impressed by their consistent reliability and accuracy. The cartridges fed smoothly into the chambers, and the rifles performed without issue. Regardless of the rifle or shooter, the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP performed consistently well.
Accuracy and Performance
When it comes to accuracy, the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP delivered. Groups were tight and consistent, with most shots landing within 1-2 inches of each other. I saw similar performance at various distances, with the cartridges exhibiting a 10-20 yard zero. At longer ranges, the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP still performed well, with a 20-30 yard zero. Group sizes increased slightly, but remained manageable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Consistent accuracy: The Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP delivered tight, consistent groups across a variety of firearms and distances.
• Reliable: The cartridges fed smoothly into the chamber, and the rifles performed without issue.
• Affordable: A box of 100 rounds is an excellent value, making them a great choice for target shooting, plinking, or hunting.
• Variety of applications: The .22 Long Rifle is an excellent caliber for small game, varmint hunting, and target shooting.
Cons:
• Limited terminal expansion: The 36gr HP cartridge may not be suitable for larger game, as it prioritizes expansion over penetration.
• Lower power factor: Compared to other .22 Long Rifle loads, the Winchester 36gr HP may not be as effective against larger game or for jammed varmints.
• Sensitivity to bullet seating depth: The cartridge may be sensitive to bullet seating depth, which could affect expansion and accuracy.
Conclusion
The Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, accurate, and affordable .22 Long Rifle load. Regardless of the rifle or shooter, the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP delivers. While it may not be the best choice for larger game or heavy varmint hunting, it excels at small game, target shooting, and plinking. Its long list of pros, combined with its competitive price point, make it an excellent value for those looking for a dependable .22 Long Rifle load.
Recommendation
I highly recommend the Winchester .22 Long Rifle 36gr HP for those interested in target shooting, plinking, or small game hunting. Its performance, reliability, and value make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. Don’t hesitate to try this cartridge if you’re in the market for an accurate and reliable .22 Long Rifle load.
