Winchester's original high-performance .22 rimfire, introduced for the iconic Model 1890 pump-action rifle. Larger diameter than .22 LR — the two are not interchangeable. Still manufactured by Winchester and CCI for collectors and owners of original Model 1890 rifles.
Type: Rimfire
Introduced: 1890, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.224" (5.69 mm)
Case length: 1.038" (26.37 mm)
Overall length: 1.32" (33.53 mm)
Max pressure: 24,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimfire
Primer: Rimfire
Typical twist rate: 1:16
Muzzle velocity: 1300–1450 fps
Muzzle energy: 169–210 ft-lbs
Effective range: 100 yd
Common bullet weights: 45 gr
Primary use: Hunting, Target
Production status: Active
Also known as: .22 WRF · .22 Remington Special · .22-7-45 · 22 Win RF
History: Winchester introduced the .22 WRF in 1890 alongside the Model 1890 slide-action rifle — the first successful pump-action .22 and a staple of shooting galleries across America. The cartridge uses a slightly larger case diameter than the .22 LR family, making them incompatible; a firearm chambered in .22 WRF cannot safely fire .22 LR. Remington chambered their Model 12 pump rifle in .22 WRF as…
Notable firearms: Winchester Model 1890, Winchester Model 1906, Remington Model 12
Similar cartridges: .22 WMR, .22 LR, .22 Extra Long