This guide ranks the .22 Magnum handguns, rifles, and one combination gun our writers have actually reviewed. We tell you what each did on the range, where it fell short, and what it cost at the time of review or at launch. Some reviews are more than a decade old, so treat the old prices as history rather than a quote, and check current listings before you buy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start with the buyer’s guide if you are deciding between a pistol, revolver, or rifle, or jump straight to the picks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Table of contents<\/h2>- Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best .22 Magnum Guns In 2026<\/a>
- .22 WMR Vs .22 LR And .17 HMR<\/a><\/li>
- Handgun, Revolver, Or Rifle<\/a><\/li>
- Reliability And Ammo Sensitivity<\/a><\/li>
- Self Defense Considerations<\/a><\/li>
- Optics, Triggers, And Capacity<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Best .22 Magnum Guns Ranked: 2026 Product Roundup<\/a>
- Walther WMP: Best Overall .22 Magnum Gun (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Kel-Tec PMR-30: Best for Highest Capacity .22 Magnum Pistol (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Ruger Single-Nine: Best .22 Magnum Revolver (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- NAA Sidewinder: Best Pocket .22 Magnum (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202: Best Semi Auto .22 Magnum Rifle (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Henry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum: Best .22 Magnum Lever Action (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Savage Model 42: Best .22 Magnum Combination Gun (2026)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Final Thoughts On The Best .22 Magnum Guns Of 2026<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best .22 Magnum Guns In 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Choosing a .22 Magnum gun comes down to what you want it to do: varmints, plinking, trail carry, or a backup defensive piece. Here is what our testing showed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
.22 WMR Vs .22 LR And .17 HMR<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The .22 WMR hits harder and shoots flatter than the .22 LR, which is why it has a long history on foxes, coyotes at close range, and other small predators. It costs more per round and is louder, so a .22 LR is still the better choice for squirrels and cheap practice, as our best .22 LR rifles<\/a> guide explains. The .17 HMR shoots flatter still with a lighter bullet. The .22 WMR carries more bullet weight, which matters on bigger varmints.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHandgun, Revolver, Or Rifle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A .22 Magnum rifle makes the most of the cartridge, because velocity climbs with barrel length. Handguns trade some speed for portability. Semi auto pistols like the WMP and PMR-30 carry 15 to 30 rounds, while revolvers like the Single-Nine and NAA Sidewinder are simpler and less picky about ammo. If you want a cheap trainer instead, see our best .22 LR training pistols<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nReliability And Ammo Sensitivity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The .22 WMR is a long rimfire case, and semi autos can be picky. Our PMR-30 reviewer had his best results with Hornady 30 grain V-Max and never had a failure to fire, while the Bear Creek BC-202 suffered feeding and firing problems early in testing. Buy a few brands and test them before you trust a magnum rimfire semi auto for anything serious. Revolvers and lever guns remove most of that risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Self Defense Considerations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Our writer took a hard look at the cartridge in .22 Magnum for personal defense<\/a>. A .22 WMR from a short barrel loses a lot of velocity, so specialized defensive loads matter. It beats having nothing, and the light recoil helps some shooters, but most people are better served by a centerfire pistol if they can handle one.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOptics, Triggers, And Capacity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Optics ready slides and scope rails make a huge difference on a varmint gun. The WMP ships optics ready with two plates, and the BC-202 came with a BX-25 trigger that broke at 3 pounds. On rifles, a good trigger and a free floating barrel matter more than anything else. Capacity runs from five rounds in a mini revolver to 30 rounds in the PMR-30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best .22 Magnum Guns Ranked: 2026 Product Roundup<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWalther WMP: Best Overall .22 Magnum Gun (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Walther WMP is the best overall .22 Magnum gun because it is a full size, optics ready pistol that finally makes the cartridge feel modern. It holds 15+1 rounds, has a 4.5 inch barrel, runs 8.2 inches long, and weighs 27.8 ounces. It ships with two optic plates, and the MSRP was $549 at launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Walther WMP review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOur reviewer mounted a Trijicon RMR and drilled a 0.40 inch group at 12 yards from a rest with Winchester ammo. His 25 yard groups ran 1.0 to 1.8 inches, and the pistol went through more than 250 rounds. His gripes were the Quad Release takedown system and the full size frame, which makes it more of a field pistol than a carry gun. Our WMP launch news<\/a> has the original announcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKey Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 15+1<\/li>\n
- Weight: 27.8 oz<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 4.5 in; overall length 8.2 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Semi auto<\/li>\n
- Sights\/Optic Cut: Optics ready, two plates included<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $549 at launch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- 0.40 in group at 12 yd<\/li>\n
- Optics ready out of the box<\/li>\n
- 15+1 capacity<\/li>\n
- Ran more than 250 rounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Quad Release takedown is fiddly<\/li>\n
- Too big for most carry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Walther WMP on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Walther](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/W2-scaled.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKel-Tec PMR-30: Best for Highest Capacity .22 Magnum Pistol (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Kel-Tec PMR-30 is the highest capacity .22 Magnum pistol on our list, with a 30 round magazine in a gun that weighs under 14 ounces empty and about 20 ounces loaded. The MSRP was $415 at the time of review, and the trigger broke around 4 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Kel-Tec PMR-30 range report<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOur reviewer ran it until it was hot and still put 30 shots into about a 2 inch hole at 10 yards. It liked Hornady 30 grain V-Max and never failed to fire. The sights are fixed, and Kel-Tec designs reward careful ammo selection. Our later Pocket Rocket vs PMR-30 showdown<\/a> puts it against its smaller sibling.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKey Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 30<\/li>\n
- Weight: under 14 oz empty, about 20 oz loaded<\/li>\n
- Action: Semi auto<\/li>\n
- Trigger: about 4 lb<\/li>\n
- Sights: Fixed<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $415 at the time of review (2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- 30 round capacity<\/li>\n
- Very light<\/li>\n
- 30 shots in about 2 in at 10 yd<\/li>\n
- Never failed to fire<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Ammo sensitive by reputation<\/li>\n
- Fixed sights<\/li>\n
- 2012 review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Kel-Tec PMR-30 on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Kel-Tec](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/08\/cover2.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRuger Single-Nine: Best .22 Magnum Revolver (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Ruger Single-Nine is the best .22 Magnum revolver for the trail and the farm because it gives you nine shots in a classic single action package. Our test gun had a 6.5 inch barrel and fiber optic sights, and the MSRP was $629 at the time of review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Ruger Single-Nine review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith 40 grain loads it ran about 1,400 feet per second from that barrel, which is real rifle class velocity for a handgun. Our reviewer found six of the nine chambers grouped tightly, while three had minor timing issues. That is worth checking on any used example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 9<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 6.5 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Single action revolver<\/li>\n
- Sights: Fiber optic<\/li>\n
- Velocity: about 1,400 fps with 40 gr<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $629 at the time of review (2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Nine shots<\/li>\n
- About 1,400 fps from a 6.5 in barrel<\/li>\n
- Not picky about ammo<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Three chambers showed minor timing issues<\/li>\n
- Slow to load and unload<\/li>\n
- 2012 review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Ruger Single-Nine on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Ruger](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/IMG_8792.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNAA Sidewinder: Best Pocket .22 Magnum (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The North American Arms Sidewinder is the best pocket .22 Magnum because it weighs only 6.7 ounces, is about 5 inches long and 2 7\/8 inches high, and still holds five magnum rounds. Unlike other NAA minis, it has a swing out cylinder, which makes loading much faster. The MSRP was $449 as tested at the time of review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full NAA Sidewinder review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt has a 1 inch barrel and is a single action, so this is a last ditch backup, not a primary gun. Our reviewer grouped 1 1\/4 inches at 3 yards, which is all you need at contact distance. For more tiny guns, see our best derringers<\/a> guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKey Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 WMR (test gun also came with a .22 LR cylinder)<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 5<\/li>\n
- Weight: 6.7 oz<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 1 in; length about 5 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Single action, swing out cylinder<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $449 as tested at the time of review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Only 6.7 oz<\/li>\n
- Swing out cylinder loads fast<\/li>\n
- Easy to carry anywhere<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Single action only<\/li>\n
- 1 in barrel wastes velocity<\/li>\n
- Tiny grip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for NAA Sidewinder on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"NAA](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Photo-J.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBear Creek Arsenal BC-202: Best Semi Auto .22 Magnum Rifle (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 is the best semi auto .22 Magnum rifle in our testing, with the caveat that it needed a break in period. Our reviewer called it a 10\/22 Magnum clone done well. It has a 16 inch 416R bull barrel at 0.920 inch, threaded 1\/2×28 with a 1:16 twist, a BX-25 trigger that broke at 3 pounds, and it ships with one 9 round Ruger magazine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe rifle is 34.5 inches long and weighed 7.6 pounds with an optic. Its best 100 yard group was 1.1 inches with CCI Gamepoint 40 grain, which clocked 1,808 feet per second. Early in testing it had failures to feed and then failures to fire, so shoot it a lot before you trust it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 9 round Ruger magazine included<\/li>\n
- Weight: 7.6 lb with optic<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 16 in 416R bull, threaded 1\/2×28, 1:16 twist; overall length 34.5 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Semi auto<\/li>\n
- Trigger: BX-25, 3 lb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- 1.1 in at 100 yd<\/li>\n
- Good BX-25 trigger<\/li>\n
- Threaded bull barrel<\/li>\n
- Uses Ruger 10\/22 Magnum magazines<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Feeding and firing problems early<\/li>\n
- Only one magazine<\/li>\n
- Heavy for a rimfire<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Bear](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bca-202.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHenry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum: Best .22 Magnum Lever Action (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Henry Small Game Carbine is the best .22 Magnum lever action because it combines a slick action with a real peep sight and very good accuracy. It holds seven rounds, has a 16.25 inch barrel, is 33.75 inches long, weighs 5.75 pounds, and wears a Skinner peep sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Henry Small Game Carbine review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe trigger broke at 2.3 pounds, and our reviewer shot just over 1 inch at 100 yards. Over 500 rounds it had one failure to fire. It is an ideal small game and varmint carbine for walking the woods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 7<\/li>\n
- Weight: 5.75 lb<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 16.25 in; overall length 33.75 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Lever action<\/li>\n
- Sights: Skinner peep<\/li>\n
- Trigger: 2.3 lb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Just over 1 in at 100 yd<\/li>\n
- Skinner peep sight<\/li>\n
- 2.3 lb trigger<\/li>\n
- Only one failure in 500 rounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Seven round tube<\/li>\n
- Tube magazine is slower to reload<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Henry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Henry](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Henry-Magnum-Rimfire-Small-Game-Carbine-09.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSavage Model 42: Best .22 Magnum Combination Gun (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Savage Model 42 is the best .22 Magnum combination gun because it stacks a rifle barrel over a .410 shotgun barrel in a light, simple break action. It weighs just under 5 pounds, has 20 inch barrels, and the trigger broke at just over 4 pounds. The MSRP was $480 at the time of review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Savage Model 42 review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSavage offers it in .22 LR or .22 WMR over .410. Our reviewer’s test gun was the .22 LR version, which grouped about half an inch at 50 yards with CCI Stingers, so treat the accuracy as a guide. He noted the polymer extractor and that it shot about 10 inches high, so plan on sight adjustment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Caliber: .22 LR or .22 WMR over .410 (tested in .22 LR)<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 2 (one per barrel)<\/li>\n
- Weight: just under 5 lb<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 20 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Break action combination gun<\/li>\n
- Trigger: just over 4 lb<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $480 at the time of review (2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Rifle and shotgun in one<\/li>\n
- Light and handy<\/li>\n
- About 0.5 in at 50 yd (.22 LR)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n- Tested in .22 LR, not .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Polymer extractor<\/li>\n
- Shot about 10 in high<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Savage Model 42 on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Savage](\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/cover1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinal Thoughts On The Best .22 Magnum Guns Of 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The best .22 Magnum gun for most shooters is the Walther WMP. It is optics ready, holds 15+1, and shot a 0.40 inch group at 12 yards in our testing. The PMR-30 is the capacity king, the Ruger Single-Nine is the trail revolver, and the NAA Sidewinder is the tiny backup. For rifles, the Bear Creek BC-202 shot 1.1 inches at 100 yards once it settled in, the Henry Small Game Carbine is the classic lever gun, and the Savage Model 42 gives you a .410 barrel too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related reading: see our guides to the best Henry rifles<\/a>, best Ruger 10\/22 upgrades<\/a>, and best pocket holsters<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor more rimfire options, see our best .22 LR rifles<\/a>, best 17 HMR rifles<\/a>, and best survival rifles<\/a> guides. Test your ammo, wear ear protection, and know your backstop. Train hard, shoot straight, and stay dangerous. Shop .22 Magnum guns on GunsAmerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The best .22 Magnum guns give you a real step up from the .22 LR without jumping to centerfire recoil, noise, or ammo prices. The .22 WMR throws a 30 to 40 grain bullet much faster than a .22 LR, which turns a plinker into a capable varmint gun out to 100 yards and more, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":146,"featured_media":175971,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"manual","footnotes":""},"categories":[888,37,857],"tags":[],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":["post-257286","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-columns-ga-guides","category-gun-reviews-rifles","category-rimfire"],"yoast_head":"\n
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Plinking, Varmints, and Self-Defense:\u00a0Walther\u2019s New WMP in .22 WMR Does It All\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/gunsamerica.com\\\/digest\\\/best-22-magnum-guns\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/gunsamerica.com\\\/digest\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Best .22 Magnum Guns (2026): Walther, Henry, Ruger & More\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/gunsamerica.com\\\/digest\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/gunsamerica.com\\\/digest\\\/\",\"name\":\"Gun Reviews and News | GunsAmerica.com\\\/Digest\",\"description\":\"Gun Reviews, Industry News, and Product Reviews for Rifles, Pistols, Revolvers, Shotguns, Optics, and Ammunition. 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A dedicated 3-Gun competitor, firearm collector, and staunch Second Amendment supporter, he is deeply involved in the shooting community. Beyond the firearms world, he\u2019s an avid overlander, nature lover, and sailor. Experience Tech Founder:Specializing in accelerated growth and digital transformation. Competitive Shooter: Active 3-Gun competitor with a strong foundation in practical shooting disciplines. Advanced Training: Completed high-level courses in pistol, carbine, concealed carry, shotgun, and precision rifle. 2A Advocate: Committed to promoting responsible gun ownership, education, and 2A rights advocacy. 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- .22 WMR Vs .22 LR And .17 HMR<\/a><\/li>
- Handgun, Revolver, Or Rifle<\/a><\/li>
- Reliability And Ammo Sensitivity<\/a><\/li>
- Self Defense Considerations<\/a><\/li>
- Optics, Triggers, And Capacity<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Best .22 Magnum Guns Ranked: 2026 Product Roundup<\/a>
- Walther WMP: Best Overall .22 Magnum Gun (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Kel-Tec PMR-30: Best for Highest Capacity .22 Magnum Pistol (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Ruger Single-Nine: Best .22 Magnum Revolver (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- NAA Sidewinder: Best Pocket .22 Magnum (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202: Best Semi Auto .22 Magnum Rifle (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Henry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum: Best .22 Magnum Lever Action (2026)<\/a><\/li>
- Savage Model 42: Best .22 Magnum Combination Gun (2026)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Final Thoughts On The Best .22 Magnum Guns Of 2026<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best .22 Magnum Guns In 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Choosing a .22 Magnum gun comes down to what you want it to do: varmints, plinking, trail carry, or a backup defensive piece. Here is what our testing showed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
.22 WMR Vs .22 LR And .17 HMR<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The .22 WMR hits harder and shoots flatter than the .22 LR, which is why it has a long history on foxes, coyotes at close range, and other small predators. It costs more per round and is louder, so a .22 LR is still the better choice for squirrels and cheap practice, as our best .22 LR rifles<\/a> guide explains. The .17 HMR shoots flatter still with a lighter bullet. The .22 WMR carries more bullet weight, which matters on bigger varmints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Handgun, Revolver, Or Rifle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A .22 Magnum rifle makes the most of the cartridge, because velocity climbs with barrel length. Handguns trade some speed for portability. Semi auto pistols like the WMP and PMR-30 carry 15 to 30 rounds, while revolvers like the Single-Nine and NAA Sidewinder are simpler and less picky about ammo. If you want a cheap trainer instead, see our best .22 LR training pistols<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reliability And Ammo Sensitivity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The .22 WMR is a long rimfire case, and semi autos can be picky. Our PMR-30 reviewer had his best results with Hornady 30 grain V-Max and never had a failure to fire, while the Bear Creek BC-202 suffered feeding and firing problems early in testing. Buy a few brands and test them before you trust a magnum rimfire semi auto for anything serious. Revolvers and lever guns remove most of that risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Self Defense Considerations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Our writer took a hard look at the cartridge in .22 Magnum for personal defense<\/a>. A .22 WMR from a short barrel loses a lot of velocity, so specialized defensive loads matter. It beats having nothing, and the light recoil helps some shooters, but most people are better served by a centerfire pistol if they can handle one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Optics, Triggers, And Capacity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Optics ready slides and scope rails make a huge difference on a varmint gun. The WMP ships optics ready with two plates, and the BC-202 came with a BX-25 trigger that broke at 3 pounds. On rifles, a good trigger and a free floating barrel matter more than anything else. Capacity runs from five rounds in a mini revolver to 30 rounds in the PMR-30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best .22 Magnum Guns Ranked: 2026 Product Roundup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Walther WMP: Best Overall .22 Magnum Gun (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Walther WMP is the best overall .22 Magnum gun because it is a full size, optics ready pistol that finally makes the cartridge feel modern. It holds 15+1 rounds, has a 4.5 inch barrel, runs 8.2 inches long, and weighs 27.8 ounces. It ships with two optic plates, and the MSRP was $549 at launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Walther WMP review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our reviewer mounted a Trijicon RMR and drilled a 0.40 inch group at 12 yards from a rest with Winchester ammo. His 25 yard groups ran 1.0 to 1.8 inches, and the pistol went through more than 250 rounds. His gripes were the Quad Release takedown system and the full size frame, which makes it more of a field pistol than a carry gun. Our WMP launch news<\/a> has the original announcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 15+1<\/li>\n
- Weight: 27.8 oz<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 4.5 in; overall length 8.2 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Semi auto<\/li>\n
- Sights\/Optic Cut: Optics ready, two plates included<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $549 at launch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- 0.40 in group at 12 yd<\/li>\n
- Optics ready out of the box<\/li>\n
- 15+1 capacity<\/li>\n
- Ran more than 250 rounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Quad Release takedown is fiddly<\/li>\n
- Too big for most carry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Walther WMP on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKel-Tec PMR-30: Best for Highest Capacity .22 Magnum Pistol (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Kel-Tec PMR-30 is the highest capacity .22 Magnum pistol on our list, with a 30 round magazine in a gun that weighs under 14 ounces empty and about 20 ounces loaded. The MSRP was $415 at the time of review, and the trigger broke around 4 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Kel-Tec PMR-30 range report<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our reviewer ran it until it was hot and still put 30 shots into about a 2 inch hole at 10 yards. It liked Hornady 30 grain V-Max and never failed to fire. The sights are fixed, and Kel-Tec designs reward careful ammo selection. Our later Pocket Rocket vs PMR-30 showdown<\/a> puts it against its smaller sibling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 30<\/li>\n
- Weight: under 14 oz empty, about 20 oz loaded<\/li>\n
- Action: Semi auto<\/li>\n
- Trigger: about 4 lb<\/li>\n
- Sights: Fixed<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $415 at the time of review (2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- 30 round capacity<\/li>\n
- Very light<\/li>\n
- 30 shots in about 2 in at 10 yd<\/li>\n
- Never failed to fire<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Ammo sensitive by reputation<\/li>\n
- Fixed sights<\/li>\n
- 2012 review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Kel-Tec PMR-30 on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRuger Single-Nine: Best .22 Magnum Revolver (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Ruger Single-Nine is the best .22 Magnum revolver for the trail and the farm because it gives you nine shots in a classic single action package. Our test gun had a 6.5 inch barrel and fiber optic sights, and the MSRP was $629 at the time of review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Ruger Single-Nine review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With 40 grain loads it ran about 1,400 feet per second from that barrel, which is real rifle class velocity for a handgun. Our reviewer found six of the nine chambers grouped tightly, while three had minor timing issues. That is worth checking on any used example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 9<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 6.5 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Single action revolver<\/li>\n
- Sights: Fiber optic<\/li>\n
- Velocity: about 1,400 fps with 40 gr<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $629 at the time of review (2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Nine shots<\/li>\n
- About 1,400 fps from a 6.5 in barrel<\/li>\n
- Not picky about ammo<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Three chambers showed minor timing issues<\/li>\n
- Slow to load and unload<\/li>\n
- 2012 review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Ruger Single-Nine on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNAA Sidewinder: Best Pocket .22 Magnum (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The North American Arms Sidewinder is the best pocket .22 Magnum because it weighs only 6.7 ounces, is about 5 inches long and 2 7\/8 inches high, and still holds five magnum rounds. Unlike other NAA minis, it has a swing out cylinder, which makes loading much faster. The MSRP was $449 as tested at the time of review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full NAA Sidewinder review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It has a 1 inch barrel and is a single action, so this is a last ditch backup, not a primary gun. Our reviewer grouped 1 1\/4 inches at 3 yards, which is all you need at contact distance. For more tiny guns, see our best derringers<\/a> guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 WMR (test gun also came with a .22 LR cylinder)<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 5<\/li>\n
- Weight: 6.7 oz<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 1 in; length about 5 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Single action, swing out cylinder<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $449 as tested at the time of review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Only 6.7 oz<\/li>\n
- Swing out cylinder loads fast<\/li>\n
- Easy to carry anywhere<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Single action only<\/li>\n
- 1 in barrel wastes velocity<\/li>\n
- Tiny grip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for NAA Sidewinder on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBear Creek Arsenal BC-202: Best Semi Auto .22 Magnum Rifle (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 is the best semi auto .22 Magnum rifle in our testing, with the caveat that it needed a break in period. Our reviewer called it a 10\/22 Magnum clone done well. It has a 16 inch 416R bull barrel at 0.920 inch, threaded 1\/2×28 with a 1:16 twist, a BX-25 trigger that broke at 3 pounds, and it ships with one 9 round Ruger magazine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The rifle is 34.5 inches long and weighed 7.6 pounds with an optic. Its best 100 yard group was 1.1 inches with CCI Gamepoint 40 grain, which clocked 1,808 feet per second. Early in testing it had failures to feed and then failures to fire, so shoot it a lot before you trust it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 9 round Ruger magazine included<\/li>\n
- Weight: 7.6 lb with optic<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 16 in 416R bull, threaded 1\/2×28, 1:16 twist; overall length 34.5 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Semi auto<\/li>\n
- Trigger: BX-25, 3 lb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- 1.1 in at 100 yd<\/li>\n
- Good BX-25 trigger<\/li>\n
- Threaded bull barrel<\/li>\n
- Uses Ruger 10\/22 Magnum magazines<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Feeding and firing problems early<\/li>\n
- Only one magazine<\/li>\n
- Heavy for a rimfire<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHenry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum: Best .22 Magnum Lever Action (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Henry Small Game Carbine is the best .22 Magnum lever action because it combines a slick action with a real peep sight and very good accuracy. It holds seven rounds, has a 16.25 inch barrel, is 33.75 inches long, weighs 5.75 pounds, and wears a Skinner peep sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Henry Small Game Carbine review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The trigger broke at 2.3 pounds, and our reviewer shot just over 1 inch at 100 yards. Over 500 rounds it had one failure to fire. It is an ideal small game and varmint carbine for walking the woods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 7<\/li>\n
- Weight: 5.75 lb<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 16.25 in; overall length 33.75 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Lever action<\/li>\n
- Sights: Skinner peep<\/li>\n
- Trigger: 2.3 lb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Just over 1 in at 100 yd<\/li>\n
- Skinner peep sight<\/li>\n
- 2.3 lb trigger<\/li>\n
- Only one failure in 500 rounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Seven round tube<\/li>\n
- Tube magazine is slower to reload<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Henry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSavage Model 42: Best .22 Magnum Combination Gun (2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Savage Model 42 is the best .22 Magnum combination gun because it stacks a rifle barrel over a .410 shotgun barrel in a light, simple break action. It weighs just under 5 pounds, has 20 inch barrels, and the trigger broke at just over 4 pounds. The MSRP was $480 at the time of review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Savage Model 42 review<\/a> here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Savage offers it in .22 LR or .22 WMR over .410. Our reviewer’s test gun was the .22 LR version, which grouped about half an inch at 50 yards with CCI Stingers, so treat the accuracy as a guide. He noted the polymer extractor and that it shot about 10 inches high, so plan on sight adjustment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Specs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Caliber: .22 LR or .22 WMR over .410 (tested in .22 LR)<\/li>\n
- Capacity: 2 (one per barrel)<\/li>\n
- Weight: just under 5 lb<\/li>\n
- Barrel: 20 in<\/li>\n
- Action: Break action combination gun<\/li>\n
- Trigger: just over 4 lb<\/li>\n
- MSRP: $480 at the time of review (2012)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Rifle and shotgun in one<\/li>\n
- Light and handy<\/li>\n
- About 0.5 in at 50 yd (.22 LR)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Tested in .22 LR, not .22 WMR<\/li>\n
- Polymer extractor<\/li>\n
- Shot about 10 in high<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\uded2 Check Current Price for Savage Model 42 on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFinal Thoughts On The Best .22 Magnum Guns Of 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The best .22 Magnum gun for most shooters is the Walther WMP. It is optics ready, holds 15+1, and shot a 0.40 inch group at 12 yards in our testing. The PMR-30 is the capacity king, the Ruger Single-Nine is the trail revolver, and the NAA Sidewinder is the tiny backup. For rifles, the Bear Creek BC-202 shot 1.1 inches at 100 yards once it settled in, the Henry Small Game Carbine is the classic lever gun, and the Savage Model 42 gives you a .410 barrel too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related reading: see our guides to the best Henry rifles<\/a>, best Ruger 10\/22 upgrades<\/a>, and best pocket holsters<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more rimfire options, see our best .22 LR rifles<\/a>, best 17 HMR rifles<\/a>, and best survival rifles<\/a> guides. Test your ammo, wear ear protection, and know your backstop. Train hard, shoot straight, and stay dangerous. Shop .22 Magnum guns on GunsAmerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The best .22 Magnum guns give you a real step up from the .22 LR without jumping to centerfire recoil, noise, or ammo prices. The .22 WMR throws a 30 to 40 grain bullet much faster than a .22 LR, which turns a plinker into a capable varmint gun out to 100 yards and more, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":146,"featured_media":175971,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"manual","footnotes":""},"categories":[888,37,857],"tags":[],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":["post-257286","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-columns-ga-guides","category-gun-reviews-rifles","category-rimfire"],"yoast_head":"\n
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