.22 LR vs .22 Magnum (WMR) (2026): Cost, Ballistics, Range & Best Uses

Last updated: January 2, 2026

.22 LR vs .22 Magnum comparison

Rimfire Caliber Showdown

.22 LR is one of America's most popular cartridges, while .22 Magnum (WMR) offers significantly more power. .22 Magnum is also called .22 WMR or .22 Mag—it's the same cartridge. Here's how they compare.

Quick Answer

Choose .22 LR for cheap practice, training, and close-range small game. Choose .22 WMR when you want more velocity/energy and better performance at longer distances—at a higher cost per round. If you're using a handgun, expect lower velocities from both—so the gap can feel smaller than rifle numbers suggest.

Performance Comparison

.22 LR (typical examples, 40gr loads, rifle barrel): Many 40gr .22 LR loads are around ~1,200 fps with ~125–140 ft-lbs. Practical ethical small-game ranges often inside ~75–125 yards (conditions/load dependent).

.22 Magnum (typical examples, 40gr loads, rifle barrel): Many 40gr .22 WMR loads are around ~1,875–1,900 fps with ~300–325 ft-lbs. Practical ethical small-to-medium varmint ranges often ~100–150 yards (conditions/load dependent).

Actual velocity/energy varies a lot by barrel length and specific load. .22 WMR often extends practical range and hit probability, especially as distance and wind increase.

Cost Analysis

.22 LR is usually far cheaper than .22 WMR. The exact gap varies by brand and sales, but WMR commonly costs several times more per round—so it's rarely the best choice for high-volume plinking. During shortages, .22 LR is usually easier to find in bulk, while .22 WMR can be spottier.

Applications

Plinking & Training: .22 LR wins easily. Dirt cheap, readily available, and perfectly adequate for target practice.

Small Game Hunting: .22 WMR often makes longer shots easier by holding velocity/energy better and reducing wind drift a bit compared to .22 LR. For squirrel and rabbit under 50 yards, .22 LR works fine. For tougher varmints/predators, .22 WMR can be more capable than .22 LR, but many hunters prefer a small centerfire for more consistent performance.

Pest Control: .22 WMR's extra energy provides more reliable performance on larger pests, especially as distance increases.

Availability

.22 LR is widely available. .22 WMR selection is limited by comparison, especially in match-grade options.

Rifle vs Handgun Barrels

Rimfire velocity changes significantly with barrel length. The numbers above are typical for rifle barrels (16–24 inches). Shorter handgun barrels will usually produce lower velocities—often a few hundred fps less, depending on load and barrel length. This affects both energy and effective range, so consider your platform when choosing between .22 LR and .22 WMR.

Choose .22 LR If:

  • Plinking and training are priorities
  • Budget matters
  • Shooting small game under 75 yards
  • Want maximum ammunition availability

Choose .22 WMR If:

  • Hunting or pest control past 75 yards
  • Need more reliable performance on larger pests
  • Don't shoot high volume
  • Want maximum rimfire power

Verdict

.22 LR is the better all-around choice for most shooters. It's cheaper, more available, and perfectly adequate for plinking and small game. .22 WMR makes sense if you regularly hunt or control pests beyond 75 yards and need extra power. Many rimfire enthusiasts own both—.22 LR for fun and practice, .22 WMR for hunting and pest control.

.22 LR vs .22 WMR FAQ

Is .22 WMR worth it for plinking?

Usually not. .22 WMR costs several times more than .22 LR, so high-volume plinking gets expensive fast. If you're shooting hundreds of rounds for fun and practice, .22 LR is the better choice. Save .22 WMR for hunting and pest control where the extra power matters.

Is .22 WMR good for self-defense?

Not recommended. .22 WMR can work in a pinch, but rimfire ignition is generally less consistent than centerfire and performance is less predictable—so most instructors recommend a centerfire option when possible. For defensive use, consider 9mm or larger centerfire calibers.

Does .22 WMR shoot flatter than .22 LR?

Yes, generally. .22 WMR's higher velocity means less bullet drop at longer ranges, making it easier to hit targets at distance. The higher velocity can also reduce wind drift compared to .22 LR, though both are affected by wind at longer ranges.

Is .22 LR enough for squirrels/rabbits?

Yes, for most situations. .22 LR is perfectly adequate for squirrels and rabbits within typical hunting ranges (under 75 yards). Shot placement matters more than caliber—a well-placed .22 LR is more effective than a poorly placed .22 WMR. For longer shots or windy conditions, .22 WMR can make hits easier.

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