The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (also known as .22 WMR or .22 Magnum) and the .22 Hornet are two popular rimfire cartridges with a long history. These cartridges have their own unique characteristics and are favored by shooters for different reasons. In this blog post, we will delve into the specifications, performance, and applications of both cartridges, helping you understand their strengths and decide which one might be the better choice for your specific needs.

Understanding the .22 WMR

The .22 WMR is a rimfire cartridge introduced by Winchester in 1959. It was designed to provide increased velocity and energy compared to the standard .22 Long Rifle (LR) round. The .22 WMR has gained popularity among shooters due to its versatility and effectiveness for various tasks.

Specifications

• Caliber: .224 (5.69mm)
• Case Length: 0.89 inches (22.6 mm)
• Bullet Weight: Typically ranges from 30 to 60 grains
• Muzzle Velocity: Varies, but often exceeds 2,000 fps (feet per second)
• Muzzle Energy: Varies, but can reach up to 400 ft-lbs

Performance and Applications

The .22 WMR is known for its flat trajectory and excellent accuracy, making it a favorite among varmint hunters and target shooters. Its higher velocity and energy make it suitable for taking small game like squirrels, rabbits, and coyotes. Additionally, the .22 WMR is often used for plinking and informal target shooting due to its low recoil and affordable ammunition.

Exploring the .22 Hornet

The .22 Hornet is a rimfire cartridge with a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. It was initially developed as a varmint and small game hunting round, but it has also found favor with long-range shooters and those seeking a lightweight, compact rifle.

Specifications

• Caliber: .224 (5.69mm)
• Case Length: 1.34 inches (34.0 mm)
• Bullet Weight: Typically ranges from 35 to 45 grains
• Muzzle Velocity: Varies, but often exceeds 3,000 fps (feet per second)
• Muzzle Energy: Varies, but can reach up to 600 ft-lbs

Performance and Applications

The .22 Hornet is renowned for its exceptional accuracy and flat trajectory, making it a top choice for long-range shooting. Its higher velocity and energy compared to the .22 WMR make it more suitable for taking larger small game, such as foxes and coyotes. The .22 Hornet is also favored by shooters who appreciate the challenge and precision of long-range shooting.

Comparing the Two Cartridges

When comparing the .22 WMR and the .22 Hornet, several factors come into play:

Power and Energy

The .22 Hornet generally delivers higher muzzle velocities and energies, making it more effective for taking larger small game. However, the .22 WMR is still powerful enough for most varmint hunting and small game applications.

Accuracy and Trajectory

Both cartridges are known for their excellent accuracy, but the .22 Hornet has a slight edge in long-range performance due to its higher velocity and flatter trajectory.

Recoil and Noise

The .22 WMR is known for its minimal recoil and reduced noise, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter shooting experience. The .22 Hornet, while still relatively mild in recoil, produces a slightly louder report.

Ammunition Availability

Ammunition for both cartridges is readily available, but the .22 WMR tends to have a wider variety of options, including different bullet weights and types.

Choosing the Right Cartridge

The decision between the .22 WMR and the .22 Hornet largely depends on your specific needs and shooting preferences. Here are some considerations to help you choose:

• If you primarily hunt small game and varmints at shorter ranges, the .22 WMR's flat trajectory and minimal recoil make it an excellent choice.
• For long-range shooting and taking larger small game, the .22 Hornet's higher velocity and energy provide an advantage.
• If you value a quieter shooting experience and prefer a cartridge with a wide range of ammunition options, the .22 WMR might be more suitable.
• Consider the availability of rifles and ammunition in your area. Some regions may have a better selection for one cartridge over the other.

Conclusion

Both the .22 WMR and the .22 Hornet are versatile and popular rimfire cartridges, each with its own unique strengths. The .22 WMR excels in varmint hunting and target shooting, offering flat trajectories and minimal recoil. On the other hand, the .22 Hornet shines in long-range shooting and taking larger small game, providing higher velocities and energies. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges depends on your specific shooting needs and preferences. By understanding their specifications, performance, and applications, you can make an informed decision to enhance your shooting experience.