Frequently Asked Questions
22 WMR 50 Grain
What grain is best for 22 magnum ammo?
Best grain depends on your use. For varmints like prairie dogs, lighter 30-grain rounds offer high velocity and expansion. For small game like squirrels and general hunting, 40-grain loads are among the most recommended, with 45-grain options also widely favored. Test different loads in your specific rifle to find the most accurate.
Is 22 WMR too much for squirrels?
.22 WMR works but is overkill for squirrels. It causes excessive meat damage on body shots and costs more than .22 LR. For head shots, .22 LR hollowpoints handle typical squirrel ranges well. If you want a step up from .22 LR, .17 HMR is a better-regarded alternative than .22 WMR.
How accurate is 22 WMR at 100 yards?
.22 WMR typically groups around 1.5 inches at 100 yards with standard rifles, though quality bolt-action guns can achieve under one inch. Results vary by rifle quality, trigger, and ammunition brand. It's adequate for varmint and small game hunting but not suited for precision target shooting.
What are the disadvantages of .22 Mag ammo?
.22 Mag costs more per round than .22 LR, limiting casual plinking. Ammo selection is narrower, and some rifles are finicky about which brands cycle reliably. Recoil and noise are higher, making it less ideal for young shooters. For squirrels, it causes excessive damage compared to .22 LR.
What is the best distance to zero a 22 Magnum?
Most shooters zero .22 Magnum at 50 yards for small game and varmint hunting. A 25-yard zero suits close-range pest control. Some prefer 100 yards for scoped target shooting. The best choice depends on your typical shooting distance and intended use.
What are the different types of .22 WMR ammunition?
.22 WMR ammunition comes in multiple bullet weights, commonly including 30, 33, 40, and 50 grain options, with hollow point, soft point, and full metal jacket bullet types. Hollow points expand on impact for hunting; FMJ offers deeper penetration. Major manufacturers include CCI, Winchester, Hornady, and Federal.