A Look at the Tiny Beast: Understanding the .22 WMR
A Brief History and the Benefits
The .22 WMR, a cartridge with a rich history, first graced the shooting scene in the late 1950s. Developed by Winchester, it was an upgrade to the ubiquitous .22 Long Rifle, offering significantly improved performance. This increase in power made the .22 WMR a more capable round for small game hunting and pest control.
This round’s popularity endures due to a number of factors. The .22 WMR uses a larger case and a more powerful propellant than its .22 LR cousin, resulting in much higher muzzle velocities. When using a range of bullet weights, this can vary, but in general, the higher velocities translate to flatter trajectories and increased energy at longer ranges.
Bullet Types and Overall Characteristics
The .22 WMR typically utilizes bullet weights ranging from around thirty to fifty grains. Common bullet types include hollow points and full metal jackets (FMJs), designed to achieve a variety of terminal effects. Hollow points expand on impact, delivering more of the energy into the target and creating a larger wound cavity, making them effective for hunting. FMJs, on the other hand, are better suited for plinking or training, as they tend to penetrate the target with less deformation.
Accessibility and Low Recoil
One of the major strengths of the .22 WMR is its accessibility. Ammunition is generally affordable and readily available at most gun stores and online retailers. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a budget-friendly round for recreational shooting or small game hunting. The low recoil also makes it an excellent option for shooters of all experience levels, including beginners and those sensitive to felt recoil. The .22 WMR has a relatively flat trajectory, allowing the shooter to hit targets at further ranges.
The High-Velocity Challenger: Exploring the 5.7x28mm
A Modern Advancement
The 5.7x28mm, a more modern cartridge, entered the market in the late 1980s. Developed by Fabrique Nationale de Herstal (FN Herstal), it was originally designed for military and law enforcement use. The primary goal was to create a cartridge that offered high velocity, low recoil, and enhanced penetration capabilities, all within a compact package.
This cartridge achieves its performance through its high velocity and relatively lightweight projectiles. It typically fires bullets in the thirty to forty grain range. FN initially designed the ammunition to penetrate body armor, however, civilians are restricted in their access to these higher-penetration rounds. It is a very capable cartridge for self-defense or tactical scenarios where penetration through barriers is a significant concern.
High Velocity and Flatter Trajectory
One of the key features of the 5.7x28mm is its high muzzle velocity. The round’s high velocity translates to a flatter trajectory and a more rapid point-of-impact. This can provide a significant advantage when engaging targets at various distances, making the round easier to shoot accurately.
Platform and Capacity
The cartridge often requires specific firearms. The FN Five-seveN pistol and the PS90 carbine are two of the most well-known platforms chambered for the 5.7x28mm. These platforms offer a variety of advantages, including low recoil, high capacity magazines, and excellent ergonomics. The cartridge’s design allows for high capacity magazines, with many platforms able to accept magazines holding twenty rounds or more.
Ammunition Cost and Availability Challenges
However, the 5.7x28mm is more expensive than the .22 WMR. The cost of ammunition is higher, and the availability may be more limited. This is a significant consideration for shooters who plan to do a lot of practice or recreational shooting.
Ballistic Battle: Comparing Performance
Velocity, Energy, and Range
Comparing these two rounds directly reveals key differences in their performance characteristics. While both rounds are designed for different things, it’s useful to understand their overall capabilities.
The .22 WMR, with its lighter bullet and smaller case, typically achieves muzzle velocities in the range of 1,500 to 2,000 feet per second (fps), dependent on bullet weight and barrel length. Muzzle energy generally hovers around 200 to 350 foot-pounds. Its effective range for accurate shooting is generally considered to be around 100 to 150 yards, though its lethal range extends further. The trajectory will have a significant arc beyond 100 yards.
The 5.7x28mm, due to its higher velocity, boasts a flatter trajectory. The muzzle velocity typically ranges from around 2,300 to 3,000 fps, resulting in much more retained energy at longer ranges. Muzzle energy is usually around 400 to 500 foot-pounds, putting it well above the .22 WMR. The effective range of the 5.7x28mm can extend out to 200 yards or more, with less bullet drop at those distances.
Energy Transfer and Terminal Ballistics
When it comes to energy transfer and terminal ballistics, the 5.7x28mm has a clear advantage. The higher velocity and larger energy result in a larger wound cavity and increased potential for incapacitation. The .22 WMR, on the other hand, relies more on its velocity and bullet expansion to create an effective wound channel.
Matching Rounds to Their Applications
Best Use Cases
The choice between .22 WMR and 5.7x28mm depends heavily on the intended application.
The .22 WMR excels in roles requiring affordability and low recoil. Its popularity for small game hunting and pest control comes from the relatively low cost of ammunition. This makes the .22 WMR an economical choice.
The 5.7x28mm is more suited for self-defense, tactical applications, and target shooting where performance and longer ranges matter. Its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, combined with the platform’s magazine capacity, make it a potentially powerful option for those situations.
Platform Availability and Practicality
Platform Options
Both cartridges have a selection of firearms available.
The .22 WMR is chambered in a variety of firearms, including rifles, revolvers, and semi-automatic pistols. Rifles are the most common platform and excel in hunting and recreational shooting, with bolt-action, lever-action, and semi-automatic options. Revolvers offer a compact and reliable option, while semi-automatic pistols provide increased capacity and fast follow-up shots.
The 5.7x28mm is primarily available in semi-automatic pistols and carbine/rifle platforms. The FN Five-seveN is the most well-known pistol. Carbines and rifles, such as the PS90, are gaining popularity for their ergonomic design and increased effective range.
Platform Features
Platform features vary greatly. The .22 WMR firearms are generally less expensive than 5.7 firearms. The 5.7 platforms will frequently include high-capacity magazines and ergonomic features that enhance handling and shooting experience.
Dollars and Sense: Ammunition Costs and Availability
Pricing and Availability
Ammunition costs are a major consideration.
The .22 WMR is significantly cheaper than 5.7. This makes it an excellent option for those who enjoy shooting frequently or who are on a budget. Its widespread availability at most gun stores and online retailers makes it easy to find.
The 5.7 is much more expensive to purchase. The higher cost of the cartridge means more money is spent on practice and training. The availability of 5.7 ammunition can be somewhat restricted, especially the higher-performance rounds.
Safe Shooting: Important Considerations
Safety First
Safety is paramount.
Both cartridges are generally considered safe, but responsible handling is essential. The low recoil of the .22 WMR makes it a good option for new shooters. The .22 WMR’s potential to overpenetrate is also a concern. The 5.7x28mm’s high velocity carries an inherent risk of overpenetration. Safe gun handling practices are essential. Always be aware of your target and what lies beyond.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Quick Summary
Overview of Pros and Cons
Here’s a brief overview:
The .22 WMR
- Pros: Affordable ammunition, low recoil, wide availability, suitable for small game.
- Cons: Limited range, lower energy, trajectory can be less than ideal.
The 5.7x28mm
- Pros: High velocity, flatter trajectory, high capacity, suitable for self-defense.
- Cons: Expensive ammunition, potential for overpenetration, restricted availability.
The Verdict: Which Cartridge is Right for You?
Final Thoughts
The choice between the .22 WMR and the 5.7x28mm ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the .22 WMR for:
- Budget-friendly recreational shooting.
- Small game hunting.
- Low recoil and ease of use.
Choose the 5.7x28mm for:
- Self-defense situations.
- Tactical applications.
- Greater effective range.
Both cartridges have their merits. The .22 WMR offers affordability and simplicity, while the 5.7x28mm provides advanced performance. Conduct thorough research and consult with a firearms expert to make the best choice for your requirements.
