Re: 22 WMR
all in all in the end, if someone is "tinkering" around and doesn't handload, but wants the harder hitting, longer distance (flatter trajectory)compared to .22lr, combined with a relatively lower noised and lower distance compared to a .22 hornet / .222 / .223, the .22 mag fits the bill. between that and the cost and windage issues, i think that's why i haven't gone the .17hmr route yet.
also another thought (in regards to hunting) is that i can't see myself shooting squirrels with the .223. with the .22 mag, it's a bit more tame so this can be accomplished, and if another target of oppurtunity comes along, say a coyote, turkey, groundhog, etc., you have the added ability at your finger tips.
it's a big advantage when you have a situation of overlapping seasons.
this is why i carry it as my walk around rifle, plus for as many rounds i use up on squirrel, i don't have to spend the time reloading rounds to replenish stock, or worry too much about meat loss - just head down to the store, pick up a box or two, weight sort them, then be on my way.
but like before, to go through as many rounds as one would with .22lr, it just makes better economical sense to go with the .22lr. in contrast, i believe that the cost of the ammo is justified for the niche that the .22mag fills, just not all that cost effective if using in bulk.
then when adding in the whole transsonic stability thing, and how much more the .22lr exagerates drop and windage, the .22lr IMO offers more tangible data for training, and actually offers better target / match loads for paper. that in itself makes it the better paper round.
plus there's less chance of getting folks nervous when they hear a .22lr go off in comparison to the crack of a .17hmr .22 mag, .22hornet, .222, .223 in the wood patches around town. you can always use the "it's only a .22" myth if a shooting session is interupted by inquiring minds.
herons are a big no-no to shoot.
