What is 22 WMR Ammo?
The 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR) is a popular cartridge for hunting and recreational shooting. In this article, we will delve into the world of 22 WMR ammo, exploring its history, characteristics, and uses.
History of 22 WMR Ammo
The 22 WMR was introduced in 1959 by Winchester Ammunition as a replacement for the 22 Magnum cartridge. The 22 WMR was designed to offer improved performance over the 22 Magnum, with a slightly larger bullet and more powerful propellant. The cartridge quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters, known for its flat trajectory and relatively low recoil.
Characteristics of 22 WMR Ammo
Here are some key characteristics of 22 WMR ammo:
- Caliber: 0.22 inches (5.6mm)
- Case length: 1.062 inches (27mm)
- Overall length: 1.315 inches (33.4mm)
- Bullet weight: Typically 30-50 grains (1.9-3.2 grams)
- Muzzle velocity: Up to 2,300 feet per second (701 meters per second)
- Muzzle energy: Up to 250 foot-pounds (339 joules)
Uses of 22 WMR Ammo
The 22 WMR is versatile and can be used for a variety of applications:
- Hunting: The 22 WMR is suitable for hunting small game, such as rodents, rabbits, and birds.
- Target shooting: The cartridge’s flat trajectory and low recoil make it ideal for target shooting and plinking.
- Competition: The 22 WMR is used in various shooting competitions, including benchrest and silhouette shooting.
- Self-defense: Some 22 WMR cartridges are designed for self-defense, offering improved penetration and expansion.
Types of 22 WMR Ammo
There are several types of 22 WMR ammo available:
- Rimfire: Standard rimfire ammunition, which is the most common type.
- Magnum: High-velocity ammunition with a more powerful propellant.
- Hollow point: Ammunition with a hollow point bullet, designed for improved penetration and expansion.
- Semi-jacketed: Ammunition with a semi-jacketed bullet, offering a balance between expansion and penetration.
- Lead-free: Ammunition with a lead-free core, suitable for areas with lead restrictions.
Table: Comparison of 22 WMR Ammo
Here’s a table comparing some of the key characteristics of 22 WMR ammo:
Ammunition Type | Muzzle Velocity | Muzzle Energy | Bullet Weight | Penetration | Expansion |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rimfire | 1,900 ft/s | 180 ft-lbs | 40 grains | 6 inches | Moderate |
Magnum | 2,300 ft/s | 250 ft-lbs | 50 grains | 8 inches | High |
Hollow point | 1,900 ft/s | 180 ft-lbs | 40 grains | 12 inches | High |
Semi-jacketed | 2,000 ft/s | 200 ft-lbs | 45 grains | 8 inches | Moderate |
Lead-free | 1,800 ft/s | 160 ft-lbs | 38 grains | 6 inches | Moderate |
Benefits of 22 WMR Ammo
Here are some benefits of using 22 WMR ammo:
- Affordable: 22 WMR ammo is generally less expensive than other calibers.
- Low recoil: The cartridge has relatively low recoil, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels.
- Flat trajectory: The 22 WMR has a flat trajectory, making it easy to shoot accurately at longer ranges.
- Reliable: Rimfire ammunition is known for its reliability, with less chance of jamming or misfires.
Conclusion
The 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire is a popular cartridge for hunting and recreational shooting. With its flat trajectory, relatively low recoil, and affordability, it’s a great option for shooters of all skill levels. Whether you’re hunting small game or shooting targets, the 22 WMR is a cartridge worth considering.