A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 22 WMR AMMO
Introduced in 1959 by Winchester, the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR)—commonly known as .22 Magnum—offers a significant upgrade in power and range over the standard .22 Long Rifle (22 LR). Designed to deliver flatter trajectories, higher velocities, and greater terminal energy, 22 WMR ammo quickly became a favorite among hunters and sport shooters looking for more punch from a rimfire cartridge.
Typical 22 magnum rounds feature bullet weights between 30 and 50 grains, with velocities ranging from 1,875 to 2,200 fps, depending on the load. This enhanced ballistic performance makes 22 WMR a go‑to for small game hunting, varmint control, and target shooting at extended distances—areas where the .22 LR may fall short.
A frequent question from shooters is whether 22 WMR can be fired in a .22 LR firearm. The answer is no—22 WMR cartridges are longer and wider, making them incompatible and unsafe in chambers designed for .22 LR, .22 Short, or .22 Long. Always check your firearm markings to ensure you’re using the correct ammunition.
Among customer favorites, CCI Maxi‑Mag and Hornady V‑MAX stand out. CCI’s 40‑grain JHP is a trusted option for reliability and clean kills on varmints. Hornady’s 30‑grain V‑MAX features a polymer tip for rapid expansion, making it an excellent choice for hunters seeking hard‑hitting 22 mag ammo with explosive terminal effect.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 22 WMR AMMO
Choosing the right 22 WMR ammo—also known as .22 Magnum—depends on how you plan to use it. Whether you’re hunting varmints, plinking at the range, or prepping for small game season, understanding bullet types and performance factors will help you select the best load.
Purpose: For target shooting or high‑volume practice, Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) and Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) rounds offer reliable feeding and solid accuracy. For small game and varmint hunting, opt for hollow point (HP) or polymer‑tipped bullets like the Hornady V‑MAX, which are designed for controlled expansion and effective energy transfer on impact.
Bullet Weight: Lighter bullets (30–34 grains) travel faster and offer flatter trajectories, making them ideal for long‑range target shooting or light varmint control. Heavier bullets (40–50 grains) deliver deeper penetration and more consistent performance in windy conditions or against slightly larger game.
Manufacturer Reputation: Stick with proven names for reliable results. Brands like CCI, Hornady, Winchester, and Federal are well‑known for their consistency, clean‑burning powder, and dependable terminal ballistics—whether you’re after subsonic 22 ammo or hard‑hitting 22 magnum rounds.
Firearm Compatibility: Always confirm that your firearm is chambered for 22 WMR ammo. Unlike .22 LR, 22 Magnum cartridges are not interchangeable, and using the wrong ammo can be unsafe. Check your firearm’s barrel markings or owner’s manual for compatibility guidance.
THE 22 WMR AMMO "ROUND UP"
Whether you’re hunting varmints or punching paper at the range, our collection of 22 WMR ammo offers the accuracy, power, and value rimfire shooters demand. Known for its flat trajectory and superior performance over .22 LR, 22 Magnum is a versatile choice for any rimfire setup. With top brands like CCI, Hornady, and Winchester, and a range of bullet types from hollow points to polymer tips, Target Sports USA has the 22 magnum ammo to match your goals—backed by expert support and free shipping on bulk orders.