Can You Shoot .22 LR Out of a .22 WMR? A Definitive Guide to Cartridge Compatibility
The short answer is: no, you absolutely should not attempt to shoot .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) ammunition from a .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) firearm. Doing so is incredibly dangerous and can result in serious injury or damage to your firearm.
Here's why:
Understanding the Differences Between .22 LR and .22 WMR
While both cartridges share the same .22 caliber designation, they are significantly different in size and power. The key differences lie in:
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Case Diameter: The .22 WMR case is noticeably larger than the .22 LR case. This means a .22 LR round will simply be too small to properly chamber in a .22 WMR firearm. Attempting to force it could lead to a dangerous malfunction.
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Bullet Diameter: While both cartridges generally use a .22 caliber bullet, slight variations exist. The .22 LR bullet may not be adequately supported by the .22 WMR barrel, leading to potentially dangerous instability and inaccuracy.
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Case Length: The longer .22 WMR case won't properly seat in a .22 LR chamber. This can cause the round to become stuck, potentially causing a dangerous obstruction and possibly resulting in a burst barrel if force is applied.
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Power Difference: The .22 WMR is significantly more powerful than the .22 LR. The .22 WMR's larger cartridge holds more propellant, generating considerably higher pressure. A .22 LR round fired in a .22 WMR chamber could be subjected to dangerously high pressures, leading to catastrophic failure.
The Dangers of Mismatched Ammunition
Attempting to fire the wrong ammunition in any firearm is extremely hazardous. In the case of .22 LR and .22 WMR, the consequences can be severe:
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Chamber Obstruction: The smaller .22 LR round may become lodged in the chamber of the .22 WMR firearm, rendering it inoperable and potentially requiring professional gunsmith assistance to remove.
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Barrel Damage: The weaker .22 LR casing might rupture under the higher pressure of the .22 WMR chamber, damaging the barrel and potentially causing injury.
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Injury to the Shooter: A malfunction caused by using the wrong ammunition can lead to serious injury from the firearm, including burns, lacerations, or even blindness.
Proper Ammunition Handling
Always double-check your ammunition before loading and firing any firearm. Pay close attention to the cartridge markings to ensure you are using the correct ammunition for your specific firearm. If you're ever unsure, consult your firearm's manual or a qualified firearms expert.
Conclusion
Shooting .22 LR ammunition in a .22 WMR firearm is dangerous and should never be attempted. The differences in cartridge dimensions and power make it a recipe for disaster, potentially leading to serious injury or damage to your firearm. Safe firearm handling practices are paramount. Always prioritize safety and use the correct ammunition for your firearm.
