Magnum Rimfire Calibers Deep Dive

For many shooters, rimfire rifles are their first introduction to firearms. They’re affordable, accurate, low-recoil, and easy to shoot, making them ideal for new hunters, plinkers, and small-game enthusiasts. But when you start stretching distance, hunting slightly larger game, or need more terminal performance than a 22 LR offers, stepping up to magnum rimfire calibers becomes an attractive option. 

Magnum rimfire cartridges offer more speed, more energy, and more effective range than traditional rimfire rounds. Whether you're pursuing prairie dogs on the plains, controlling pests around the farm, or ringing steel at 200–300 yards, it's worth understanding how these calibers differ and what each one brings to the table. 

This guide breaks down what “magnum” means in the rimfire world, how these rounds are used, and the advantages and drawbacks of each, helping hunters and precision shooters choose the caliber that best fits their needs. 

What Is a “Magnum” Rimfire Caliber? 

When shooters talk about magnum rimfire calibers, they’re referring to rimfire cartridges designed with increased powder capacity, higher velocity, and improved terminal performance over standard rimfires like 22 LR. 

Common Magnum Rimfire Cartridges

The most popular magnum rimfire calibers include: 

• 17 HMR
• 22 WMR
• 17 HM2
• 17 WSM

Each of these cartridges offers a step up in velocity and performance compared to traditional rimfire loads due to slightly larger cases with higher powder charges. The increased velocity results in: 

• Flatter trajectories
• Greater effective range
• Improved penetration
• More reliable expansion

Not to Be Confused with Similar Centerfire Cartridges

When you're looking for magnum rimfire calibers, make sure you’re not mixing in similar sounding small centerfire cartridges. Rounds like the 22 Hornet, 22 ARC, and 17 Hornet may have 22 and 17 in their names, but they’re centerfire cartridges that use smaller, higher speed projectiles similar to their rimfire counterparts.  

These cartridges may share similar bullet diameters, but the centerfire designs have significantly more power. Magnum rimfires fill a niche between 22 LR and small centerfire varmint cartridges, offering enhanced performance while still being affordable, low-recoil, and simple to shoot.  

Different Uses for Magnum Rimfire Calibers 

Magnum rimfire cartridges are extremely versatile. They are used by hunters, recreational shooters, and competitive rimfire marksmen alike. 

Hunting Applications

Magnum rimfires excel at small game and varmint hunting thanks to their flat trajectories and increased energy. Common uses include: 

• Predator and pest control – Ideal for coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and similar-sized animals within reasonable distances.
• Small game hunting at longer ranges – Magnum rimfire calibers are perfect for a variety of small game animals like squirrels and rabbits. They are especially useful for hunting prairie dogs out in the wide open, flat plains, where the flat shooting ballistics of cartridges like the 17 HMR excel. 
• Trapping – Magnum rimfire calibers are great for rifles to run the trap line, since they deliver plenty of energy and often leave a smaller hole and do less damage to a pelt, helping to preserve its value.

Shooting Sports

Many target shooters love magnum rimfires because they offer an enjoyable blend of affordability, minimal recoil, and extended reach. 

Magnum rimfires are popular for: 

• Stretching rimfire rifles beyond 100 yards – Many shooters confidently push 17 HMR and 17 WSM beyond 300 yards.
• Range practice – Though .22 LR dominates most competitions, magnum rimfires can be used for fun on the range.
• Steel target shooting – Their flat trajectories make them excellent for predictable point-of-impact and general steel shooting on the range.

Magnum rimfires provide an excellent training platform for shooters wanting to practice wind reading, trajectory management, and long-range fundamentals without burning through expensive centerfire ammo as well. 

Advantages and Drawbacks of Magnum Rimfire Calibers 

Like any firearm system, magnum rimfires come with pros and cons. Understanding these helps shooters pick the caliber that best suits their needs. 

Advantages 

1. Longer Effective Range
   Compared to 22 LR, magnum rimfire calibers remain stable and accurate far beyond 100 yards. Cartridges like 17 WSM can even maintain flat trajectories past 300 yards.
2. Low Recoil
   Even at magnum velocities, recoil remains negligible due to the small cartridge size. This makes the platform ideal for young shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
3. Higher Muzzle Energy
   Magnum rimfires hit harder than 22 LR, which is critical when hunting for predators or varmints, and for getting clean expansion in your target.
4. Affordable and Accessible Platforms
   A wide variety of rifles are chambered in magnum rimfire calibers, making them plentiful and generally affordable. Savage is no different, and we have several models offered in each of the major magnum rimfire calibers.

Drawbacks

1. Louder Report and Harder to Suppress 
   Higher powder charges and higher velocities mean more noise. Magnum rimfires can be noticeably louder than 22 LR and will not suppress as quietly without using subsonic rounds. 
2. Higher Cost per Round 
   While still cheaper than centerfire ammunition, magnum rimfire ammo is more expensive and can be less abundant in some cases, especially compared to 22 LR. 
3. Ammo Availability Can Be Spotty 
   Depending on region; certain magnum calibers, especially 17 HM2 and 17 WSM, may not always be readily available. These calibers may only be offered by one or two different brands in an area.  

Even with these drawbacks, shooters often find the advantages far outweigh the negatives, especially if their shooting needs extend beyond what a 22 LR can reliably deliver.

Magnum Rimfire Calibers in Savage Rifles 

We offer several rifles chambered in magnum rimfire calibers, providing hunters and shooters with accurate, dependable options across the performance spectrum to suit their needs. 

17 HMR 

Known for exceptional accuracy and a flat trajectory, the 17 HMR is ideal for varmint hunting, small predators, and long-range plinking. There are currently 34 models offered in 17 HMR, including several variants of the 93/93R17, B Series, A17,  and the Revel. 

22 WMR

A hard-hitting rimfire option, perfect for hunters needing more penetration and energy on small predators while still maintaining rimfire simplicity. 22 Magnum is currently offered in the 93/93R17, B Series, A22 Magnum, and the Revel.  

17 HM2

A more niche round built to improve upon the 17 HMR, the 17 HM2 is a rarity among magnum rimfire shooters today. Savage is the only major firearm manufacturer currently offering rifles in 17 HM2. The caliber is currently offered in the A17, Mark II F, and Mark II FV.  

17 WSM 

The most powerful magnum rimfire on the market today. With blistering velocities and outstanding long-range capability, it’s perfect for hunters targeting wary varmints at extended ranges. The 17 WSM is currently available in select A Series and B Mag rifles. 

Magnum rimfire calibers fill an important gap between plinking rounds like 22 LR and small centerfire cartridges like the 223 Remington. They deliver flat trajectories, improved energy, and impressive accuracy, making them a favorite among varmint hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone looking to push rimfire performance farther. 

From the fast and flat 17 HMR to the powerful 17 WSM, these cartridges each offer unique strengths. Understanding their differences helps shooters select the ideal caliber for their hunting needs, shooting habits, and performance expectations. 

For those looking to step beyond traditional rimfire performance without committing to centerfire costs or recoil, magnum rimfires are an outstanding choice. And with a full line of reliable, accurate rifles, we make it easier than ever to take advantage of these versatile and capable cartridges.