Best .22 WMR Rifles (2025 Guide): Accuracy, Utility, and Top Picks
December 5, 2025
Looking for the best .22 WMR rifles in 2025? This guide breaks down why the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire still shines, how it compares to .22 LR and .17 HMR, and what to look for in hunting and small-varmint rigs. We’ll cover actions, barrels, triggers, optics setups, and real-world use, then point you to category and brand pages on GunGenius so you can compare models efficiently. The primary keyword for this article is Best .22 WMR rifles, and you’ll see it woven naturally throughout.
Why .22 WMR Still Matters in 2025
.22 WMR rifles straddle a sweet spot: more reach and energy than .22 LR, with less wind sensitivity than many expect, and without the muzzle blast or ammo cost of full-size centerfire varmint cartridges. For small game, pests, and ranch chores, .22 WMR brings practical terminal performance with flat-enough trajectories out to typical rimfire distances. It’s also a confidence-builder—recoil and report remain mild, yet you get decisive performance on small predators and varmints with the right load.
How .22 WMR Compares to .22 LR and .17 HMR
- vs. .22 LR: Expect a noticeable jump in velocity and energy with .22 WMR, along with better performance on tougher critters. The tradeoff is pricier ammo and (often) slightly louder report.
- vs. .17 HMR: .17 HMR is flatter and often more precise in the wind at the same ranges, but .22 WMR tends to carry heavier bullets and can deliver better penetration on small predators. If you prefer heavier, controlled-expansion bullet options at modest rimfire speeds, .22 WMR is appealing.
Key Features to Prioritize on the Best .22 WMR Rifles
- Action type: Bolt-actions dominate for consistency and easy ammo compatibility. Semi-autos exist, but ensure they’re specifically tuned for .22 WMR, which runs higher pressures than .22 LR.
- Barrel length & contour: Common lengths run 18–22 inches. Medium-sporter or light varmint contours balance carry weight with heat management for longer shot strings.
- Chamber & crown quality: Rimfire accuracy hinges on a concentric chamber and clean crown; look for manufacturers with strong QC reputations.
- Trigger: A crisp, user-adjustable trigger (roughly 2.5–4 lb) can substantially tighten groups—worth prioritizing on any precision-leaning rimfire.
- Stock design: An adjustable comb helps align your eye to low-mounted scopes. For field rifles, textured, weather-resistant stocks are practical and shrug off scratches.
- Optics rail: Many modern .22 WMR rifles include 0 or 20 MOA rails or at least drilled-and-tapped receivers. A rock-solid base avoids zero shift (your future self will thank you).
- Magazines & feeding: Detachable box magazines are common; make sure spares are readily available and feed smoothly with your preferred bullet shapes.
Recommended Roles & Setups
Farm & ranch utility: A weatherproof bolt gun with a 3–9x or compact 2–10x scope lives happily in a truck or ATV scabbard. Choose durable rings and confirm that your zero stays put after bumpy rides.
Small game & fur bearers: For rabbits, squirrels, foxes, and similar targets, use consistent, expanding .22 WMR loads and verify your dope from 25 to 125 yards. A clean break trigger is the unsung hero here.
Quiet practice & pest control: When local rules and gear allow, a suppressor-ready threaded barrel with a quality rimfire can keeps blast civilized and helps you spot hits. Mind legal requirements; we don’t provide legal advice.
Editor’s Shortlist: Brands to Start With
To compare current models quickly, start with these brand hubs and filter to .22 WMR rifles:
- Ruger — Known for reliable, widely supported rimfires, with frequent threaded-barrel and optics-ready options.
- Savage Arms — A value/accuracy leader thanks to good barrels and user-adjustable triggers on many models.
- CZ-USA — Praised for smooth bolts and strong out-of-box accuracy; wood or synthetic stocks depending on model.
Specs Snapshot: Typical .22 WMR Field Rifles
| Platform | Action | Caliber | Barrel length / Weight | Capacity | Overall length | MSRP / Street |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field sporter | Bolt | .22 WMR | 18–20 in / ~6–6.8 lb | 5–10 rds | ~37–39 in | ~$399–$699 |
| Light varmint | Bolt | .22 WMR | 20–22 in / ~6.8–7.5 lb | 5–10 rds | ~39–41 in | ~$499–$899 |
| Utility semi-auto* | Semi-auto* | .22 WMR | 18–20 in / ~6–7 lb | 9–15 rds | ~37–39 in | ~$499–$799 |
Zeroing & Dope: Keep It Simple
For the best .22 WMR rifles used on small varmints and general-purpose ranch work, a 100-yard zero is a practical starting point. In most field conditions, that keeps holdovers modest between 50 and ~140 yards. As always, confirm with your actual rifle and load—rimfire velocities can vary more than you might think. A small data card on your stock or scope cap is surprisingly handy (and lighter than a second brain).
Optics & Mounting
- Magnification: Versatile choices include 2–10x or 3–9x scopes. If you roam timber or feedlots at dusk, look for generous eye box and forgiving eyebox at low power.
- Reticles: Simple duplex works; BDC or mildot reticles make holdovers cleaner in gusty conditions. Keep illumination uncomplicated and daylight visible.
- Mounting: Use quality rings torqued to spec on a solid base. Re-check torque after the first few hundred rounds or after vehicle transport.
Ammo Tips for .22 WMR
- Function first: Test at least two loads for reliable feeding and ejection in your rifle, especially with polymer-tipped or flat-nose bullets.
- Purpose-driven bullets: For small predators, polymer-tipped expanding bullets offer fast upset. For small game where meat damage matters, try controlled-expansion or traditional soft points.
- Lot variation: Rimfire ammo lots can differ. When you find a load that groups, grab a second box from the same lot to keep POI shifts minimal.
Maintenance & Reliability
Rimfire chambers can get sooty; a modest cleaning schedule preserves accuracy. Keep a nylon brush, chamber mop, and solvent handy. For detachable mags, a quick wipe-down avoids the dust-and-chaff cocktail common on ranches. If your rifle is threaded, apply a dab of anti-seize on muzzle device threads and verify timing after range days.
Shopping Shortcuts
Ready to browse options? Start with our rifle category filters, then drill into specific brands known for strong rimfire lineups:
- Category: Bolt-Action Rifles (apply the .22 WMR filter once you’re there).
- Brand hubs to compare: Ruger, Savage Arms, CZ-USA.
Best .22 WMR Rifles: Quick Decision Guide
- Budget truck gun: A basic bolt-action sporter with a 3–9x scope, synthetic stock, and threaded barrel if possible.
- Accuracy-leaning varmint rig: Go for a heavier-contour barrel, adjustable trigger, and a crisp 2–10x or 3–12x optic. Add a bipod and rear bag for field positions.
- Weather beater: Choose stainless or well-coated steel plus a polymer stock with aggressive texturing.
- Semi-auto fun: If you prefer a fast follow-up platform, verify the rifle is engineered for .22 WMR and test with your chosen load before any serious pest work.
Informational only. Follow manufacturer instructions and applicable laws. We do not provide legal advice.