.22 Long Rifle vs. .22 Magnum: The Ultimate Rimfire Showdown
In Rimfire ammunition, two calibers dominate the conversation: .22 Long Rifle (LR) and .22 Magnum (Winchester Magnum Rimfire or 22 WMR).
Valued for their versatility and reliability, they serve distinct purposes, making the choice between them challenging. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these rounds can help you make the right choice. This is true whether you are a casual shooter, a hunter, or just curious about rimfire performance.
The .22 Long Rifle Cartridge has been a staple in the shooting world since its debut in 1887. Arguably, it is the most iconic rimfire cartridge and a favorite among shooters of all experience levels.
Known for its affordability, low recoil, and wide availability, the .22 LR is ideal for recreational shooting, pest control, and small-game hunting.
While it doesn’t pack the same punch as classic centerfire rounds such as .223 REM or others, it’s more than enough to dispatch small critters or punch holes in paper targets. Its effective range is generally around 100 to 150 yards, though it loses energy quickly at longer distances.
It's an excellent round for introducing new shooters to firearms, thanks to its low noise and minimal recoil. Also, a great training round, allowing you to keep your marksmanship skills fresh at less cost. Its simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it an easy choice for those looking to spend hours at the range without breaking the bank.
Introduced in 1959, the .22 Magnum or .22WMR was designed to offer more power than the .22 LR while retaining the appeal of its predecessor, the .22 LR.
This strong rimfire round is a longer and heavier cartridge. Capable of achieving higher velocities, with muzzle speeds exceeding 2,000 feet per second. This extra energy makes it suitable for hunting larger animals like opossums or raccoons. It can also engage targets at further distances than you may attempt with a .22LR.
The .22 Magnum bridges the gap between the traditional .22 LR and larger centerfire cartridges. It delivers more energy on impact, resulting in greater penetration and a flatter trajectory.
These qualities make it a popular choice for varmint hunters and in regard to power the .22 Magnum is superior.
Its higher velocity and energy transfer allow it to penetrate deeper and maintain effectiveness over longer distances. This makes it the go-to choice for tasks requiring more precision or impact, such as hunting or pest control.
However, with this increased performance comes added costs. The .22 Magnum is significantly more expensive than the .22 LR, with per-round prices often three to five times more expensive depending on the brand and specific round itself.
To learn more, check out our .22 Magnum (WMR) Complete Guide for detailed information on ballistics and applications.
For those simply looking to enjoy a good old-fashioned plinking session, the cost-efficiency of the .22 LR cannot be overstated. Bulk packs of .22 LR are available at a fraction of the cost of Magnum rounds, making it a better choice for casual shooters.
Also, it is more widely available, as almost every ammunition retailer stocks it. The .22 Magnum, while popular, isn’t quite common, and finding loads can sometimes be a challenge if you are looking for something specific.
With minimal differences, recoil and noise are factors you may want to consider when determining which round is best. The .22 LR has little recoil and a mild report, making it the ideal round for long target shooting sessions or new shooters. The .22 Magnum, while still mild compared to most centerfire rounds, has more noticeable recoil and a louder “crack." This can be less appealing to some shooters, particularly beginners.
Regarding versatility, the .22 Magnum stands out. Its higher velocity and energy make it suitable for various applications.
Hunters appreciate its ability to handle larger varmints and take small games at longer distances. Occasionally its chosen for self-defense, especially in compact revolvers or pistols designed specifically for the caliber.
In contrast, the .22 LR is more specialized in its niche.
It can handle small-game hunting and pest control. However, it does not have the power for medium-sized games and has a reduced hitting power compared to a .22 Magnum for self-defense.
The .22 Long Rifle excels in scenarios where cost and simplicity are priorities.
If you are looking for a cartridge to plink away at targets, teach new shooters, or handle small pests, the .22 LR is the clear winner. This rimfire round is fun, economical, and readily available, making it the ultimate “do-it-all” for casual use.
Explore our comprehensive Complete Guide to the AR-22s for an in-depth look at the .22LR.
The .22 Magnum, by contrast, is better suited for shooters who need more power and range. Hunters targeting animals like raccoons or opossums will appreciate its added punch and flatter trajectory. This allows for greater accuracy and lethality at a distance. Also, a viable option for those who prefer rimfire for self-defense, though this is a less common application.
Deciding between these two popular rimfire rounds ultimately depends on what you need the round to do.
For casual fun, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility, the .22 LR is a clear winner. Ideal for everyday shooting, whether plinking steel, honing your accuracy, or taking out small critters.
The .22 Magnum, on the other hand, shines in situations that demand more power and versatility. Its higher velocity, energy, and extended range make it a capable option for hunters. Additionally, it is great for anyone looking to expand the utility of a rimfire firearm.
While it may not be as budget-friendly or widely available as the .22 LR, it delivers where performance is key.
These two calibers aren’t competitors, instead, they serve as complementary tools in a shooter’s ammo cabinet.
We suggest you grab some of each to ensure you are prepared the next time you decide to send some lead downrange!
