Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Winchester Varmint HV load brings 22 WMR varmint ammo performance to shooters who need supersonic velocity and controlled expansion in a rimfire magnum platform. Chambered for 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, this cartridge seats a 30-grain Hornady V-Max polymer tip designed to fragment on impact while maintaining enough penetration for clean kills on small game from prairie dogs to fox-sized targets. At 2250 fps muzzle velocity and 337 ft-lbs of energy, the load stays supersonic well beyond typical rimfire engagement distances, flattening trajectory and reducing holdover on wind-affected shots. Winchester loads this ammunition to SAAMI specifications with non-corrosive primers and brass cases suitable for field use in bolt-action rifles, lever guns, and semi-automatic platforms chambered in 22 WMR.
Performance at a Glance
The Hornady V-Max projectile features a polymer tip that serves dual functions: it raises the ballistic coefficient for improved downrange velocity retention, and it acts as a wedge during terminal expansion, splitting the copper jacket from the lead core. This design produces rapid fragmentation on varmints while maintaining enough structural integrity to reach vital organs on quartering shots. The 30-grain weight sits at the lighter end of the 22 WMR spectrum, prioritizing speed over retained energy — expect velocities to drop below the sound barrier around 150 yards depending on atmospheric conditions and barrel length. Shooters using 20-inch or longer barrels may see velocity gains of 50-75 fps over the listed 2250 fps, while carbine-length barrels will yield lower numbers.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) |
| Bullet weight | 30 grains |
| Bullet type | Hornady V-Max Polymer Tip |
| Muzzle velocity | 2250 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 337 ft-lbs |
| Velocity rating | Supersonic |
| Rounds per box | 50 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Non-corrosive rimfire |
| Lead-free | No |
| Intended use | Hunting, varmint control, target shooting |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
This load occupies the middle ground between rimfire economy and centerfire reach — faster than standard-velocity 22 Long Rifle but more affordable and less recoil-intensive than 17 HMR. Shooters working farm fields, prairie dog towns, or predator stands inside 125 yards will find the combination of speed and expansion effective for one-shot stops on game up to 5 pounds. Check your rifle’s chamber markings to confirm 22 WMR compatibility; this cartridge is not interchangeable with 22 Long Rifle and requires a dedicated magnum chamber. Browse the full 22 WMR ammo selection for additional loads and grain weights.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Follow the four universal rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and identify your target and what lies beyond it. Review NSSF firearms safety guidelines for complete protocols.
- Verify chamber compatibility before loading — 22 WMR ammunition cannot be safely fired in 22 Long Rifle chambers and may cause catastrophic pressure failure if chambered in an incorrect firearm.
- This ammunition contains lead components. California Proposition 65 requires disclosure that lead exposure can cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling ammunition and use proper ventilation when shooting indoors.
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