.22 LR vs .22 WMR: Rimfire Power Compared
.22 Long Rifle is the cheapest, most common rimfire cartridge in the world. .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) uses a longer case and pushes light bullets faster, with higher published energy and more reach on small game. You cannot fire one in a chamber built for the other.
At a Glance
| .22 LR | .22 WMR | |
|---|---|---|
| Other names | 22 Long Rifle | 22 Magnum, 22 Mag |
| Common bullet weights (our listings) | 36, 38, 40 gr | 30, 40, 45, 50 gr |
| Typical use | Plinking, training, small game | Small game, varmints, some defense loads |
| Cost per round | Lowest of common rimfire | Higher than .22 LR |
| Power | Mild | Noticeably stronger |
| Shop | .22 LR ammo | .22 WMR ammo |
.22 LR vs .22 WMR Ballistics
Factory figures for common rimfire loads in each caliber.
Load key: LRN = lead round nose; JHP = jacketed hollow point.
| Load (Federal data) | Velocity (fps) muzzle / @50 / @100 yd |
Energy (ft-lb) |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Champion (510) 22 LR 40 gr Lead Round Nose |
1240 / 1103 / 1011 | 137 / 108 / 91 |
| Federal Champion (AM22) 22 LR 40 gr Lead Round Nose |
1200 / 1075 / 991 | 128 / 103 / 87 |
| Federal Small Game (757) 22 WMR 50 gr Jacketed Hollow Point |
1530 / 1347 / 1197 | 260 / 201 / 159 |
| Federal Varmint & Predator (P765) 22 WMR 30 gr Speer TNT JHP |
2200 / 1777 / 1419 | 322 / 210 / 134 |
Figures are as published by Federal Premium on each product page (checked November 5, 2026). Rimfire figures are from Federal's published tables; velocity from your own barrel will differ.
Power and Range
.22 WMR is clearly hotter in Federal's tables. That helps on larger small game and longer shots. .22 LR remains enough for squirrels, rabbits and endless practice.
Cost and Volume
.22 LR wins for training and plinking because you can shoot more for the same money. .22 WMR is a specialty round for many shooters.
Firearms
.22 LR guns are everywhere: pistols, rifles and trainers. .22 WMR rifles and a smaller set of handguns exist; magazines and chambers are cartridge-specific.
Reliability Note
Rimfire ammo, especially cheap bulk .22 LR, can have more ignition failures than centerfire. For defense, most instructors still prefer a centerfire handgun.
Shop Both
.22 LR ammo | .22 WMR ammo | rimfire ammo. Compare current cost per round in our Ammo Price Index, see every cartridge in our ammo caliber chart.
Orders of $500 or more ship free; ammunition orders under $500 ship for $15.99. Ammunition is not returnable. Some states and cities restrict ammo purchases or shipments, so read our ammo and magazine laws by state before ordering. Tactical Surplus USA has been selling firearms, ammunition and gear since 2022.
FAQ
Is .22 WMR more powerful than .22 LR?
Yes in Federal's published figures on this page. The 50 gr .22 WMR JHP lists 260 ft-lb at the muzzle versus 128–137 ft-lb for the 40 gr .22 LR loads shown.
Can I shoot .22 LR in a .22 WMR firearm?
No. The cases are different. Only fire the cartridge marked on the barrel. Adapters exist for some guns; use only maker-approved devices.
Which is cheaper, .22 LR or .22 WMR?
.22 LR is much cheaper and easier to find in bulk. That is why it dominates plinking and training.
Is .22 WMR good for self-defense?
Federal makes a Punch .22 WMR load for that role, but most trainers still prefer a centerfire handgun when you can shoot one well. Rimfire can fail to fire more often than centerfire.
Which is better for small game?
Both work. .22 WMR hits harder and reaches farther; .22 LR is quieter in many loads and far cheaper for volume shooting.
Do I need a different rifle for .22 WMR?
Yes. Chamber, magazine and often the bolt face are built for one cartridge. Do not mix them.