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.22 Magnum Ammunition Overview
Introduced in 1959 by Remington, .22 Magnum ammo offers higher velocity than .22 LR. Designed for small game and varmint hunting, it remains popular for its versatility and manageable recoil.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Higher velocity than standard .22 LR rounds
- Effective for small game hunting and pest control
- Available in various bullet types and weights
- Compatible with many revolvers and rifles
- Low recoil for easy handling and training
Key Variants
.22 Magnum 40gr JHP
Ideal for self-defense with jacketed hollow points designed for rapid expansion.
.22 Magnum 40gr RN
Round nose variant suited for target shooting and plinking.
.22 Magnum 30gr HP
Lightweight hollow point for low-recoil small game hunting.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | .22 Magnum Ammo | .22 Long Rifle | 17 HMR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical MSRP (per 50 rounds) | $12–$15 | $8–$12 | $18–$22 |
| Velocity (fps) | 1,900–2,000 | 1,080–1,200 | 2,550–2,700 |
| Energy (ft-lb) | 180–200 | 90–130 | 300–320 |
| Penetration/Expansion | Moderate penetration with rapid expansion (JHP) | Shallow to moderate penetration | Deep penetration with controlled expansion |
| Use Cases | Self-defense, small game | Target, plinking, small game | Varmint hunting, target |
| Notable Pro | Balance of power and recoil | Very low recoil, affordability | High velocity and flat trajectory |
Best Use Cases
- Small game and varmint hunting
- Self-defense in compact revolvers
- Target practice and plinking
- Law enforcement backup weapons
- Collection and reload experimentation
FAQs
Can I use .22 Magnum ammo in a .22 LR firearm?
No. .22 Magnum rounds are longer and more powerful; using them in .22 LR firearms risks damage and unsafe pressure levels.
What is the typical velocity of .22 Magnum ammunition?
Velocities range from approximately 1,900 to 2,000 feet per second, depending on bullet weight and barrel length.
How does .22 Magnum compare to 17 HMR for hunting?
.22 Magnum offers more recoil and lower velocity than 17 HMR but delivers adequate energy for close-range small game.
