The Rimfire Rundown: A Guide to Rimfire Cartridges

Rimfire ammunition has been a staple of shooting sports, hunting, and target practice for generations. With options ranging from the classic 22 LR to the high-speed 17 WSM, rimfire cartridges offer versatility, affordability, and precision for various applications. Whether you're plinking, taking down varmints, or competing, there’s a rimfire cartridge suited for the job.

The Basics of Rimfire Ammunition

Rimfire cartridges differ from centerfire in a fundamental way: the primer compound is inside the rim of the case rather than in a separate primer pocket. This design allows for simpler, more cost-effective production but limits case pressures compared to centerfire rounds. Despite this, rimfire cartridges deliver excellent performance for small game hunting, target shooting, and even competition.

The Structure of a Rimfire Cartridge

A rimfire round consists of a thin brass case, a rim filled with priming compound, a powder charge, and a projectile. When struck by the firing pin, the rim crushes, igniting the primer and firing the round. This design makes rimfire ammunition affordable but non-reloadable due to the way the case deforms upon firing.

Breaking Down the Most Popular Rimfire Cartridges

22 Long Rifle (22 LR)

The 22 LR is the most widely used rimfire cartridge in the world. It’s inexpensive, available in a variety of loads, and perfect for plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting. With bullet weights typically ranging from 30 to 40 grains, the 22 LR can achieve muzzle velocities from 1,000 to 1,600 fps. It’s an ideal option for those looking for a low-recoil, cost-effective round for everything from backyard practice to serious marksmanship. For shooters using a suppressor, subsonic 22 LR ammunition can further reduce noise levels, making it an excellent choice for discreet shooting and minimizing disturbance.

22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR)

If you need more power than the 22 LR but want to stay within the rimfire family, the 22 WMR is an excellent choice. With bullet weights around 30 to 50 grains and velocities reaching up to 2,200 fps, the 22 WMR extends your effective range and delivers more energy on target. It’s particularly useful for varmint hunting and small game at longer distances, making it a go-to for ranchers and hunters.

17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (17 HMR)

The 17 HMR is one of the most innovative rimfire cartridges developed in recent decades. Created by necking down a 22 WMR case to hold a .17-caliber bullet, this cartridge achieves blistering speeds of up to 2,650 fps. The result is a flat-shooting, highly accurate round with minimal wind drift, making it perfect for precision shooting and varmint control.

17 Hornady Mach 2 (17 HM2)

The 17 HM2 follows the same concept as the 17 HMR but is based on a 22 LR case instead of a 22 WMR. This results in a slightly slower round, reaching velocities around 2,100 fps. The 17 HM2 offers better ballistic performance than the 22 LR while maintaining a similar size, making it an excellent option for small-game hunting and target shooting.

17 Winchester Super Magnum (17 WSM)

For those needing the most powerful rimfire option, the 17 WSM delivers. With a larger case and higher pressures, this cartridge can push a 20-grain bullet past 3,000 fps. That speed translates to excellent downrange energy, making the 17 WSM a formidable choice for long-range varmint control and small predators.

21 Sharp

The 21 Sharp is a newer addition to the rimfire world, designed to fill the gap between the 22 WMR and 17 HMR. With its efficient case design and high-velocity performance, it offers excellent energy retention and accuracy. Savage Arms is offering several models chambered in 21 Sharp, ensuring shooters have access to reliable, high-performance rifles for various applications. While not as widely available as other rimfire rounds, the 21 Sharp is gaining traction among those looking for a versatile, high-performance rimfire option.

Ballistics and Performance Breakdown

• 22 LR: 1,000-1,600 fps, best for plinking, target shooting, and small game.

• 22 WMR: 1,800-2,200 fps, ideal for small game and varmint hunting.

• 17 HMR: 2,500-2,650 fps, excels in precision shooting and varmint control.

• 17 HM2: 2,000-2,100 fps, better trajectory than 22 LR, good for small game.

• 17 WSM: 2,800-3,000+ fps, maximum range and impact in rimfire.

• 21 Sharp: High-velocity performance with great energy retention.

Savage Arms Rimfire Rifles: A Fit for Every Shooter

Savage Arms offers a diverse lineup of rimfire rifles, categorized into product families designed for various shooting needs, from small game hunting to precision target shooting.

• Model 93/93R17: Known for accuracy and dependability, the Model 93 and 93R17 bolt-action rifles are chambered in 22 WMR and 17 HMR. They are excellent choices for varmint hunting and precision shooting, offering smooth operation and consistent performance.

• A Series: Designed for those who want semi-automatic speed with rimfire versatility, the A22 and A17 rifles offer reliable cycling and pinpoint accuracy. The A22 is available in 22 LR and 22 WMR, while the A17 is tailored for the high-speed 17 HMR.

• B Series: These bolt-action rifles are available in multiple rimfire calibers, including 22 LR, 22 WMR, and 17 HMR. The B-Series rifles feature modern ergonomics and are well-suited for both recreational shooting and serious hunting applications.

• B.MAG: Engineered to harness the power of the 17 WSM, the B.MAG rifle delivers extreme velocity and energy for long-range small game and varmint control, making it one of the most capable rimfire options available.

• Mark II: The Mark II series offers affordable, accurate bolt-action rifles in 22 LR and 17 HM2. These models are ideal for target shooting, small game hunting, and beginner-friendly marksmanship training.

• Model 64: A semi-automatic classic, the Model 64 in 22 LR is a budget-friendly choice for plinking, target practice, and small game hunting. Its simple design and reliable feeding make it a go-to option for many shooters.

• Rascal: Specifically designed for young shooters and beginners, the single-shot Rascal comes in 22 LR and teaches the fundamentals of marksmanship with safety in mind. Its lightweight frame and easy-to-use design make it the perfect first rifle.

• Revel: A refined and precision-oriented lever-action rimfire rifle, the Revel combines accuracy with premium aesthetics. Available in 22 LR, 22 WMR, and 17 HMR, this rifle is crafted for those seeking a high-end shooting experience with classic lever-action operation.

Final Thoughts

Rimfire cartridges continue to be a staple in the shooting world, providing an unmatched combination of affordability, versatility, and performance. Whether you’re plinking with 22 LR, hunting with 22 WMR, or pushing precision with 17 HMR, there’s a rimfire round and a Savage rifle ready to meet your needs.