How Fast is a 22 Long Rifle?
The.22 Long Rifle is one of the most popular and widely used rimfire cartridges in the world. With its low recoil, affordability, and versatility, it’s no wonder why many shooters and hunters choose this caliber for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting. But just how fast is a.22 Long Rifle?
Muzzle Velocity
The muzzle velocity of a.22 Long Rifle cartridge depends on several factors, including the type of ammunition used, the length of the barrel, and the condition of the gun. On average, a.22 Long Rifle cartridge fired from a standard rifle with a 20-inch barrel can reach a muzzle velocity of around 1,200-1,300 feet per second (fps).
Here’s a breakdown of the muzzle velocity of different types of.22 Long Rifle ammunition:
| Ammunition Type | Muzzle Velocity (fps) |
|---|---|
| Standard.22 LR | 1,200-1,300 |
| High-Velocity.22 LR | 1,300-1,400 |
| Hyper-Velocity.22 LR | 1,400-1,500 |
| Subsonic.22 LR | 900-1,100 |
Range and Accuracy
The range and accuracy of a.22 Long Rifle cartridge also depend on several factors, including the quality of the ammunition, the condition of the gun, and the shooter’s skill level. On average, a.22 Long Rifle cartridge can accurately hit targets out to 150-200 yards with a good rifle and decent ammunition.
Here’s a breakdown of the range and accuracy of different types of.22 Long Rifle ammunition:
| Ammunition Type | Range (yards) | Accuracy (MOA) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard.22 LR | 150-200 | 2-3 |
| High-Velocity.22 LR | 200-250 | 1-2 |
| Hyper-Velocity.22 LR | 250-300 | 0.5-1 |
| Subsonic.22 LR | 100-150 | 3-4 |
Comparison to Other Calibers
To put the performance of the.22 Long Rifle into perspective, here’s a comparison to other popular calibers:
| Caliber | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Range (yards) | Accuracy (MOA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .22 Long Rifle | 1,200-1,300 | 150-200 | 2-3 |
| .17 HMR | 2,600-2,700 | 200-300 | 1-2 |
| .22 WMR | 2,300-2,400 | 200-250 | 1-2 |
| .38 Special | 800-900 | 50-100 | 4-6 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the.22 Long Rifle is a versatile and popular caliber that offers a good balance of range, accuracy, and affordability. While it may not be as fast or powerful as other calibers, it’s well-suited for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, the.22 Long Rifle is a great caliber to consider.
