The .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire, often just ".22 Mag") and the .22 LR share a bore diameter and little else. The WMR uses a longer, larger case that drives bullets considerably faster with more energy. That makes it a real step up for predators and pests at longer distances. It also costs more per round, and the two are not interchangeable. This guide covers when the magnum is worth it.
| Case | WMR is longer and wider; not interchangeable |
|---|---|
| Power | WMR: notably more velocity and energy |
| Effective range | WMR extends practical small-game and varmint range |
| Cost per round | LR is much cheaper |
| Noise and recoil | WMR louder; recoil still mild |
| Safety | Never fire LR in a WMR chamber, or WMR in an LR gun |
Why they aren't interchangeable
A .22 LR round will often drop into a .22 WMR chamber because the bore size is similar, but the case doesn't fit correctly. Firing it can cause case ruptures and gas escaping toward the shooter. A .22 WMR round won't chamber in a .22 LR gun. Use only the cartridge stamped on your barrel. The exception is a revolver sold with a dedicated second cylinder for the other cartridge, and then only with the matching cylinder installed.
When .22 WMR earns its cost
- Predators and larger pests such as coyotes at close range, where legal and ethical. Shot placement still matters most.
- Longer small-game shots, where the extra velocity flattens trajectory.
- Farm and ranch guns that need a little more authority than .22 LR without centerfire noise and cost.
For bigger reach still, see our .17 HMR gear guide. The HMR is a necked-down WMR case that shoots flatter still.
When .22 LR is the better choice
For plinking, training, competition and most squirrel and rabbit hunting, .22 LR wins on cost and availability. You'll shoot several times as many rounds for the same money, and that is how you get better. Our bulk .22 guide covers buying it.
WMR guns worth knowing
The Henry Golden Boy is also offered in .22 WMR, which gives you the classic lever with magnum reach. North American Arms makes tiny .22 Mag mini-revolvers and a longer-barreled Hogleg. These are specialty guns, and very short barrels give up much of the magnum's velocity advantage.
Scope and zero notes
A .22 WMR shoots flatter than .22 LR, so zero for your typical distance with your hunting load. Our rimfire zeroing guide covers the method, and rimfire optics covers glass. Wind still pushes rimfire bullets around. See reading wind for rimfire.
Our take
| You mostly… | Buy |
|---|---|
| Plink, train, compete | 22 LR |
| Hunt squirrels and rabbits at normal ranges | 22 LR |
| Handle farm pests and predators at moderate range | 22 WMR |
| Want the flattest rimfire for varmints | Consider 17 HMR |
The .22 WMR is a real power step up for pests and predators at moderate range, at a higher cost per round. The .22 LR remains the right choice for practice, competition and most small game. Never interchange them. Shoot only the cartridge stamped on your barrel or cylinder.
FAQ
Can I shoot .22 LR in a .22 WMR gun?
No. It may drop into the chamber, but the case doesn't fit correctly and can rupture. Only use a dedicated LR cylinder if your revolver came with one.
Is .22 WMR good for coyotes?
It can work at close range with precise shot placement, where legal. Many hunters prefer a centerfire for coyotes at distance.
Is .22 WMR louder than .22 LR?
Yes, noticeably. Recoil is still mild.
.22 WMR or .17 HMR?
The .17 HMR shoots flatter for small varmints at distance. The .22 WMR carries a heavier bullet with more energy up close.
See .22 WMR guns in stock
Magnum rimfire stock rotates. Check what is available now.
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