Introducing the Contenders
In the world of ballistics, the 5.7x28mm and the .22 WMR represent different approaches to performance. The 5.7x28mm is a centerfire cartridge, designed primarily for military and law enforcement applications. It made its debut with the FN P90 personal defense weapon (PDW) and the Five-seven pistol, both developed by Fabrique Nationale (FN) of Herstal, Belgium. Its design focused on high velocity and lightweight projectiles, seeking to provide excellent penetration in a compact and controllable package. This makes the 5.7x28mm a distinct choice in the modern landscape of cartridges.
The .22 WMR, on the other hand, is a rimfire cartridge, a direct descendant of the ubiquitous .22 Long Rifle. Developed by Winchester in the late 1950s, the .22 WMR offered a significant step up in power and performance compared to its predecessor. Designed primarily for rifles and pistols, this round is popular among hunters, plinkers, and those looking for an affordable and easily accessible cartridge. The 22 WMR represents a classic approach to rimfire effectiveness.
A Glimpse into History and Purpose
The genesis of these cartridges provides critical context for their present-day applications. The 5.7x28mm emerged in the late 1980s as a response to the perceived need for a lightweight, high-velocity cartridge that could penetrate body armor. FN Herstal envisioned this round as a replacement for the 9x19mm Parabellum in certain roles, specifically aiming at providing superior penetration capabilities in a more manageable package. The design focus reflects this, optimizing the round for efficient penetration through barriers and intermediate-range effectiveness. The 5.7’s intended purpose continues to influence the perception of its value today.
The .22 WMR has a simpler, yet equally valuable, lineage. Developed as a more powerful alternative to the .22 Long Rifle, the .22 WMR sought to provide increased velocity and energy for hunting small game and for achieving more impressive ranges in target shooting scenarios. Its design prioritizes straightforward functionality and ease of use, making it a user-friendly choice for a range of recreational activities. Its creation reflects the ongoing evolution of rimfire cartridges to achieve higher standards.
Examining the Numbers: Ballistic Analysis
Understanding the raw ballistic data is essential to a proper comparison. The velocity and trajectory, the core of bullet flight, differ significantly between these two cartridges. The 5.7x28mm, thanks to its design, boasts an exceptionally high muzzle velocity. Depending on the load and barrel length, bullets can easily achieve velocities exceeding two thousand feet per second. This translates to a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet drops less over distance compared to slower rounds. A flat trajectory is crucial for accuracy at extended ranges.
The .22 WMR, while faster than a .22 Long Rifle, generally exhibits a lower muzzle velocity than the 5.7x28mm. Typical .22 WMR rounds achieve velocities in the range of 1,500 to 2,000 feet per second. This difference in velocity results in a more pronounced bullet drop over distance. Shooters must compensate for this drop by adjusting their sights or hold-over when shooting at longer ranges.
The energy carried by a bullet, expressed in foot-pounds, is another crucial factor. The 5.7x28mm, again due to its high velocity, delivers a greater amount of energy at the muzzle. While the precise figures vary depending on the bullet weight, the 5.7x28mm typically carries more than the .22 WMR. This higher energy can translate into greater stopping power and, potentially, enhanced penetration.
The .22 WMR, although delivering a lower energy level than the 5.7x28mm, still provides a noticeable power increase over its .22 Long Rifle counterpart. The .22 WMR’s impact at its muzzle is a noticeable one.
Different bullet types play a crucial role in optimizing the performance of both cartridges. The 5.7x28mm commonly utilizes full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets, designed for penetration. However, it also offers jacketed hollow point (JHP) options for enhanced expansion and terminal performance. Bullet selection is a key factor in determining how each cartridge interacts with its intended target.
The .22 WMR commonly features a range of bullet types, including FMJ, JHP, and solid-nose bullets. The selection of bullet type allows hunters and shooters to tailor their cartridge to their specific needs. The JHP bullets are designed for expansion, increasing the wound channel and the transfer of energy to the target.
On the Range and Beyond: Practical Performance
The accuracy and effective range of each cartridge are important considerations. The 5.7x28mm, with its flatter trajectory and higher velocity, generally offers the potential for greater accuracy at longer ranges. The round’s inherent accuracy combined with proper ammunition and shooting skills allow for accurate hits out to several hundred yards, making it suitable for target shooting and certain hunting applications.
The .22 WMR, while capable of reasonable accuracy, has a more limited effective range. Its trajectory results in significant bullet drop at longer distances, making precise shot placement more challenging. While the .22 WMR can certainly be used for target shooting and varmint hunting at moderate ranges, its effective range is generally shorter than that of the 5.7x28mm.
Stopping power, a somewhat subjective term, is another key consideration. The 5.7x28mm, due to its higher velocity and energy, has the potential for better penetration and wounding capabilities. The design of the projectile allows for greater penetration. The stopping power of any round, however, depends on a number of factors.
The .22 WMR, despite its reduced power compared to the 5.7x28mm, still offers good performance for the size and cost of its ammunition. It is a suitable round for varmint hunting. The .22 WMR’s energy transfer is often sufficient for taking down small game effectively.
For the hunter, each cartridge has its place. The 5.7x28mm can be used for hunting small game, such as varmints, where its flat trajectory and moderate energy may be advantageous. However, ethical hunting requires a careful consideration of shot placement and the limitations of the cartridge.
The .22 WMR is a popular choice for small game hunting, with many shooters favoring it for rabbits, groundhogs, and other small varmints. Its combination of accuracy, energy, and affordability makes it well-suited for this purpose. However, its relatively limited effective range and stopping power must be considered when choosing a target and making a shot.
In the realm of self-defense, the suitability of these cartridges is often debated. The 5.7x28mm, with its high velocity and potential for penetration, can offer an advantage in certain defensive situations. Its smaller bullet diameter also potentially reduces the risk of over-penetration, although this characteristic also varies depending on the load.
The .22 WMR has long been a staple of personal defense. The ease of use, low recoil, and manageable size make it popular. However, its lower energy levels and reduced stopping power can lead to mixed results.
Availability, Cost, and Convenience
The availability of firearms chambered in each cartridge plays a crucial role in the user’s decision. The 5.7x28mm has seen an increase in popularity. Several manufacturers now produce firearms chambered in this round, including pistols, carbines, and even rifles. The selection, while growing, remains smaller than the options for .22 WMR.
The .22 WMR enjoys a much broader market. A vast array of firearms are chambered in this round, including bolt-action rifles, semi-automatic rifles, revolvers, and pistols. The wider selection of firearms makes it easy for users to find a firearm that meets their needs and preferences.
The cost of ammunition is a significant consideration for many shooters. The 5.7x28mm, being a less common and more specialized cartridge, generally commands a higher price per round. This higher cost can be a factor for those who shoot frequently or train regularly.
The .22 WMR, being a more widely produced and popular cartridge, usually comes at a considerably lower price. This affordability makes it a more accessible choice for recreational shooters, plinkers, and hunters. The more accessible price can translate to a higher volume of practice and training.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The 5.7x28mm presents unique advantages. Its higher velocity translates to a flatter trajectory, enhancing accuracy at longer ranges. The cartridge’s design offers high penetration. It often has higher magazine capacity in the firearms it is chambered in.
The disadvantages of the 5.7x28mm include its higher ammunition cost. Being a centerfire cartridge, this is an important factor for shooters. The 5.7x28mm is also less widely available than the .22 WMR, limiting the options for those who prefer a particular firearm or manufacturer.
The .22 WMR, with its lower ammunition costs, is a significant draw for many shooters. The .22 WMR has wide availability. Many different types of firearms can be found in this cartridge.
The .22 WMR is somewhat limited. The .22 WMR lacks the potential stopping power of some larger centerfire cartridges. The range limitations will influence the cartridge’s usefulness in some scenarios.
Making the Right Choice
So, which cartridge reigns supreme? The answer, as with most firearms questions, is “it depends.” For those prioritizing accuracy, range, and potential penetration, the 5.7x28mm may be the better choice, especially in scenarios where stopping power is a high priority. It is the preferred choice for those willing to invest in the ammunition and equipment.
For those seeking an affordable, readily available, and versatile cartridge for plinking, small game hunting, or target shooting at moderate ranges, the .22 WMR is an excellent option. Its ease of use and low cost make it a practical choice for a wide range of shooters.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which cartridge is right for you is to consider your individual needs, budget, and intended use. Think about the types of activities you will be doing, and the environments in which you will be operating. If possible, try shooting both cartridges to experience their different characteristics firsthand.
