.22 Long Rifle vs .22 WMR
Typical factory loads side by side: speed, energy, BC, twist, range and what each one is built for.
The short answer
With typical loads, the .22 WMR is about 680 ft/s faster at the muzzle (1,235 vs 1,910 ft/s).
The .22 WMR carries about 140% more energy at the muzzle (324 vs 135 ft-lbs), which usually also means more recoil.
On the same size target, the .22 WMR has the longer point-blank range (112 yd), so you can hold dead-on a bit farther without adjusting.
Side by side
| .22 Long Rifle | .22 WMR | |
|---|---|---|
| Made for | Rimfire for small game and plinking: squirrels, rabbits, and pests out to about 75 yards. Not for deer. | Rimfire magnum for rabbits, groundhogs, foxes and coyotes close in. |
| Typical load | 40 grround nose | 40 grJHP |
| Muzzle speed | 1,235 ft/s | 1,910 ft/s |
| Muzzle energy | 135 ft-lbs | 324 ft-lbs |
| Typical BC (G1) | ≈ 0.12typical, varies by brand | ≈ 0.11typical, varies by brand |
| Twist rate | 1:16 | 1:16 |
| Practical range | 50–75 yd small game | 125 yd |
| Point-blank range | 80 yd2" vital zone | 112 yd2" vital zone |
| Recommended platform | Any rifle, ultralights includedVery light recoil | Revolver or full-size pistolVery light recoil, loud blast |
Which one fits you?
.22 Long Rifle: Rimfire for small game and plinking: squirrels, rabbits, and pests out to about 75 yards. Not for deer.
.22 WMR: Rimfire magnum for rabbits, groundhogs, foxes and coyotes close in.
For most hunters, the right pick is the one you can shoot accurately and comfortably, in a rifle that fits how you hunt. Good shot placement and a bullet built for your game matter more than small differences on paper.
More
Speed, energy and BC are typical figures for the listed load; real numbers vary by brand, lot and barrel length. Always check the ammo maker's data for your exact load.