The .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) cartridge has long been a favorite among hunters, plinkers, and pest control enthusiasts. Within this popular caliber, Federal's 50-grain offering stands out as a reliable and versatile round. This detailed analysis explores the Federal 50gr 22 WMR cartridge, examining its ballistics, performance characteristics, applications, and suitability for various shooting scenarios.
Understanding the Federal 50gr 22 WMR Cartridge
The Federal 50gr 22 WMR utilizes a 50-grain jacketed hollow point (JHP) bullet. This bullet design is optimized for expansion upon impact, resulting in increased stopping power and better performance on small game. The jacketed construction also ensures better accuracy and less fouling compared to lead bullets. Federal's reputation for consistent ammunition manufacturing means users can expect reliable performance and consistent accuracy from this cartridge.
Key Ballistic Characteristics:
While specific velocities can vary slightly depending on the firearm used, the Federal 50gr 22 WMR generally exhibits the following characteristics:
- Velocity: Approximately 1350-1400 feet per second (fps)
- Energy: Roughly 200-220 foot-pounds (ft-lbs) at the muzzle.
- Trajectory: A relatively flat trajectory compared to standard .22 LR, allowing for accurate shots at slightly longer ranges.
These figures clearly highlight the increased power of the .22 WMR compared to its .22 LR counterpart. This additional power translates to a significant advantage in hunting and pest control applications.
Applications of the Federal 50gr 22 WMR
The versatility of the Federal 50gr 22 WMR makes it suitable for a variety of shooting purposes.
1. Small Game Hunting:
This cartridge is ideally suited for small game hunting, such as:
- Squirrels: The increased energy and stopping power compared to .22 LR offer cleaner kills and reduced chances of wounded animals escaping.
- Rabbits: The 50-grain JHP bullet provides sufficient energy for humane and effective hunting.
- Groundhogs/Prairie Dogs: While slightly underpowered for larger groundhogs at longer ranges, it is effective at closer distances.
- Birds (smaller varieties): While not the optimal cartridge for larger birds, it can be effective for smaller varieties like doves or pigeons at close range.
2. Pest Control:
The Federal 50gr 22 WMR is an effective choice for controlling nuisance pests, including:
- Rats: Its stopping power ensures quick and humane dispatch.
- Mice: Although overkill for individual mice, it's effective for larger infestations where accurate shots are vital.
3. Target Shooting/Plinking:
Though not its primary application, the Federal 50gr 22 WMR can be used for target practice and plinking. However, the cost per round is generally higher than standard .22 LR, making it less economical for casual shooting.
4. Self-Defense (limited situations):
While not a primary self-defense round, the .22 WMR can be considered in extremely limited circumstances, particularly where other options are unavailable. Its stopping power is significantly greater than .22 LR, but it's still crucial to understand its limitations compared to larger calibers intended for self-defense.
Considerations When Using Federal 50gr 22 WMR
- Recoil: The increased power of the .22 WMR results in noticeable recoil compared to .22 LR. This is important to consider for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
- Cost: The .22 WMR is generally more expensive per round than .22 LR.
- Availability: While widely available, it may not be as readily stocked as .22 LR, particularly in certain regions.
Conclusion
The Federal 50gr 22 WMR cartridge provides a reliable and effective solution for various applications, particularly small game hunting and pest control. Its increased power and stopping power compared to standard .22 LR make it a valuable option for those who require more punch from their rimfire ammunition. However, it's essential to weigh its advantages against its higher cost and recoil before making a purchase. Remember always to practice safe firearm handling and consult local regulations before hunting or using any firearm.
