The .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) cartridge has long been a favorite among hunters, plinkers, and small-game enthusiasts. Within the .22 WMR family, Federal's 50-grain offering stands out as a versatile and popular choice. This in-depth article will explore the Federal 50-grain .22 WMR, examining its ballistics, performance characteristics, intended uses, and overall value. We'll delve into what makes it a strong contender in the rimfire market and provide you with the information you need to decide if it's the right cartridge for you.
Understanding the Federal 50 Grain 22 WMR Cartridge
The Federal 50-grain .22 WMR is a jacketed hollow point (JHP) round. This design is crucial to understanding its performance. Let's break down the key features:
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50-Grain Projectile: The 50-grain weight provides a balance between velocity and stopping power. It's heavier than many other .22 WMR rounds, offering more energy downrange.
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Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP): The jacketed hollow point design enhances expansion upon impact. This increased expansion leads to greater energy transfer, resulting in improved lethality on small game and better stopping power on varmints. The jacket also contributes to improved accuracy and reduces barrel leading.
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Federal's Reputation: Federal Premium ammunition has a strong reputation for quality and consistency. This translates to reliable performance and accuracy in the field. This reputation is built upon rigorous testing and high-quality manufacturing processes.
Ballistic Performance of the Federal 50 Grain 22 WMR
The ballistic performance of the Federal 50-grain .22 WMR varies slightly depending on the firearm used, but generally, expect the following:
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Muzzle Velocity: Around 1500-1600 feet per second (fps). This high velocity contributes to its impressive range and accuracy.
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Energy: High muzzle energy allows for effective small-game hunting at longer ranges compared to standard .22 LR. The increased energy also leads to a flatter trajectory.
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Trajectory: While not as flat as some centerfire cartridges, the .22 WMR's trajectory is relatively flat for its caliber, making it easier to hit targets at longer ranges.
Table 1: Comparative Ballistics (Approximate Values)
| Cartridge | Grain Weight | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal 50 Grain .22 WMR | 50 | 1550 | 200 |
| Other .22 WMR Brands (40 grain) | 40 | 1700 | 160 |
(Note: These are approximate values and may vary slightly depending on the firearm and environmental conditions.)
Applications of the Federal 50 Grain 22 WMR
The Federal 50-grain .22 WMR is remarkably versatile, making it suitable for several applications:
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Small Game Hunting: Groundhogs, rabbits, squirrels, and other small game are all effectively taken with this cartridge. The JHP design ensures clean kills with appropriate shot placement.
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Predator Control: Coyotes (at closer ranges), foxes, and other varmints can be controlled with the .22 WMR, particularly when using the Federal 50-grain JHP.
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Target Shooting/Plinking: Its accuracy and manageable recoil make it enjoyable for casual target shooting and plinking. The high velocity makes it more exciting than standard .22 LR.
Case Study: Effectiveness on Groundhogs
A recent hunting trip demonstrated the effectiveness of the Federal 50-grain .22 WMR on groundhogs. At a range of 75 yards, using a scoped rifle, the cartridge consistently resulted in clean one-shot kills. The JHP design ensured rapid expansion and high energy transfer, minimizing suffering.
Choosing the Right Ammunition: Federal 50 Grain vs. Other Options
While the Federal 50-grain .22 WMR is an excellent choice, it's important to consider other options available. The choice often depends on your specific needs:
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40-Grain .22 WMR: Often offers higher velocity but slightly less stopping power. This is a good choice for long-range target shooting.
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30-Grain .22 WMR: Provides very high velocity but less energy on impact. Better for varmint hunting at close to medium ranges.
Factors to Consider: Your specific firearm, the intended target, and your shooting range all contribute to choosing the right ammunition.
Conclusion: The Federal 50 Grain 22 WMR: A Solid Choice
The Federal 50-grain .22 WMR is a highly reliable and versatile cartridge that offers a solid balance of velocity, accuracy, and stopping power. Its performance makes it an excellent choice for small game hunting, varmint control, and target practice. While other options exist, the combination of Federal's quality and the 50-grain JHP design makes this cartridge a strong contender in the .22 WMR market. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.