5MM REMINGTON MAGNUM AMMO

5mm Remington Ammo: Magnum Rimfire Ballistics, Best Factory Loads & Varmint Hunting Performance

Introduction to 5mm Remington Magnum Rimfire

The 5mm Remington Magnum Rimfire (5mm Rem Mag) is a unique and powerful rimfire cartridge designed for varmint hunting, small game shooting, and precision rimfire applications. Originally introduced in 1970 by Remington, this high-velocity rimfire round provides superior energy, flat trajectories, and improved penetration compared to other rimfire cartridges like the .22 WMR and .17 HMR. Aguila Ammunition announced the return of the 5mm Remington Rimfire Magnum after a long absence, generating excitement and demand among hunters and shooters.

While 5mm Rem Mag ammo was discontinued for many years, modern ammunition manufacturers have revived this hard-hitting rimfire round, making it a top choice for varmint hunters and precision shooters. Remington discontinued the 5mm Remington Rimfire Magnum in 1982, but it was reintroduced by Aguila Ammunition in 2008.

Why Choose 5mm Remington Magnum Rimfire?

Shooters prefer 5mm Rem Mag ammunition for its unique combination of:

• High Velocity & Flat Trajectory – Faster than .22 WMR, reaching speeds of 2,100+ fps. The advertised velocity provided by manufacturers highlights these impressive measurements.
• Flatter Trajectory – Achieves significantly less bullet drop over a distance, making it more effective for varmint hunting and small game.
• Superior Energy & Penetration – Delivers more energy on target than traditional rimfire cartridges.
• Optimized for Small Game & Varmint Hunting – Ideal for coyotes, prairie dogs, and groundhogs.
• Rare & Unique Rimfire Performance – One of the most powerful rimfire cartridges ever produced.

5mm Rem Mag Ballistics: What to Expect in Terms of Muzzle Energy

Factory-loaded 5mm Remington Magnum ammo typically fires a 30- to 40-grain bullet at speeds between 2,000 and 2,300 fps, delivering significant muzzle energy and kinetic energy upon impact, making it one of the most powerful rimfire rounds available.

Typical Ballistics Data (Factory Ammo)

The high velocity and energy retention of 5mm Rem Mag ammo make it an excellent choice for varmint hunting at extended ranges. During testing, the actual velocities achieved were compared to the advertised velocity provided by manufacturers, showing how performance can vary based on different conditions and equipment.

5mm Remington Magnum vs. .22 WMR & .17 HMR: Key Differences

Many shooters compare 5mm Rem Mag vs. .22 WMR vs. .17 HMR to determine the best rimfire hunting cartridge. Magnum rimfires are versatile options for hunting small game and varmints, offering mild recoil and affordability.

• 5mm Rem Mag – Fires heavier bullets with higher velocity and energy, making it more effective for larger varmints like coyotes.
• .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) – A widely available rimfire round, but with lower velocity and energy.
• .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) – Offers higher velocity but lacks the downrange energy of 5mm Rem Mag.

Best 5mm Remington Magnum Factory Ammo

If you’re looking for factory-loaded 5mm Rem Mag ammunition, consider these top-performing options:

Aguila Ammunition has reintroduced the 5mm Remington Rimfire Magnum cartridge, which has quickly regained popularity among enthusiasts.

Varmint & Small Game Hunting Ammo

1. Aguila 30gr Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) – A top choice for varmint hunting, offering rapid expansion and high velocity. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the reintroduction of the 5mm Remington Rimfire Magnum as new ammo have hunters and shooters eager to test its performance.
2. Aguila 38gr Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) – Designed for penetration and accuracy, ideal for small game and precision shooting.
3. Remington 40gr Soft Point (SP) – A classic hunting round providing deep penetration and controlled expansion.

Match & Target Shooting Ammo

1. Aguila 30gr Varmint Express JHP – Offers excellent accuracy for rimfire competitions and precision shooting. The 5mm Remington Magnum is one of the favorite cartridges among rimfire enthusiasts for its performance and accuracy.
2. CCI 38gr Maxi-Mag FMJ – A reliable factory load for consistent velocity and trajectory.

Reloading 5mm Remington Magnum: Is It Possible?

Unlike centerfire cartridges, rimfire ammo cannot be reloaded, which means shooters must rely on factory ammunition. The original production run of the 5mm Remington Rimfire Magnum was brief, leading to limited availability until Aguila Ammunition revived it. However, manufacturers like Aguila and Remington continue to produce 5mm Rem Mag factory ammo, ensuring availability for shooters who own 5mm Rem Mag rifles.

Is 5mm Rem Mag Good for Hunting?

Yes! The 5mm Remington Magnum is an excellent choice for small game and varmint hunting, especially for targets like:

• Coyotes
• Prairie dogs
• Groundhogs
• Raccoons
• Foxes

The 5mm Remington Magnum is a highly effective and cost-efficient little cartridge for hunting small game and varmints.

The higher velocity and deeper penetration of 5mm Rem Mag allow for ethical, quick kills at longer distances compared to .22 WMR and .17 HMR.

Best Rifles Chambered in 5mm Remington Magnum

Since 5mm Rem Mag rifles are relatively rare, shooters looking for a rifle chambered in this caliber should consider the performance differences in accuracy and muzzle velocity when testing these loads in rifles compared to pistols. Here are some options:

1. Remington 591M & 592M – The original bolt-action rifles designed for 5mm Rem Mag.
2. Thompson/Center Contender (Custom Barrel) – A single-shot pistol/rifle system with aftermarket 5mm Rem Mag barrels available.
3. Custom Bolt-Action Rifles – Some gunsmiths offer custom conversions for modern bolt-action rimfire rifles.

Final Thoughts: Why 5mm Remington Magnum is a Top Choice

The 5mm Remington Magnum Rimfire, also known as the rimfire magnum, is one of the most powerful and versatile rimfire cartridges ever developed. Originally introduced by Remington Arms in 1969, it saw a resurgence in popularity when Aguila Ammunition reintroduced it in 2008. Whether you’re a varmint hunter, small game shooter, or rimfire enthusiast, 5mm Rem Mag ammo offers high velocity, excellent penetration, and flat trajectories.

For those looking for a rare but effective rimfire round, 5mm Rem Mag factory ammunition is a top-tier choice.