.22 WMR Ballistics
The .22 WMR in a dedicated AR-15 upper or conversion doubles the velocity and energy of .22 LR while retaining low recoil and noise. A practical small game and varmint cartridge for AR shooters.
Cartridge Specifications
Common Bullet Weights and Types
Muzzle Velocity by Barrel Length
Muzzle Energy by Barrel Length
Bullet Drop Table
Values in inches. 16-inch barrel reference data. Positive values rise above line of sight, negative values fall below.
| Load | Zero | 100 yd | 200 yd | 300 yd | 400 yd | 500 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 gr V-MAX | 100 yd | 0 | -10.5 | -38 | - | - |
| 40 gr JHP | 100 yd | 0 | -13 | -44 | - | - |
Wind Drift at 10 mph Crosswind
Drift in inches at a 90 degree full value wind. Estimated from muzzle velocity and G1 ballistic coefficient.
| Load | 100 yd | 200 yd | 300 yd | 400 yd | 500 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 gr V-MAX | 12.9 | 25.9 | 38.8 | 51.7 | 64.6 |
| 40 gr JHP | 14.4 | 28.8 | 43.2 | 57.5 | 71.9 |
Effective Range by Application
Barrel Twist Rate Recommendations
Published Load Data
| Weight | Type | Barrel | MV (fps) | ME (ft-lb) | BC (G1) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 gr | V-MAX | 16 in | 2,200 | 322 | 0.1 | Hornady .22 WMR 30gr V-MAX published specs from 16" barrel |
| 30 gr | V-MAX | 20 in | 2,270 | 343 | 0.1 | Hornady .22 WMR 30gr V-MAX published specs from 16" barrel |
| 40 gr | JHP | 16 in | 1,870 | 311 | 0.125 | CCI Maxi-Mag .22 WMR 40gr JHP published specs |
| 40 gr | JHP | 20 in | 1,910 | 324 | 0.125 | CCI Maxi-Mag .22 WMR 40gr JHP published specs |
Data Disclaimer
Ballistic data is approximate and varies by ammunition lot, barrel condition, altitude, and temperature. Data sourced from Hornady .22 WMR 30gr V-MAX published specs from 16" barrel; CCI Maxi-Mag .22 WMR 40gr JHP published specs. Always confirm zero and trajectory with your specific firearm.
Pick the right barrel
Twist rate should match the bullet weights you plan to shoot. See barrel steel grades, profiles, chamber types, and twist rate guidance on the barrel specs page, then jump into the builder to filter barrels chambered in .22 WMR.