The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 .22 WMR is an exciting addition to the .22 Magnum market, especially for those familiar with the Ruger 10/22 platform. As a clone of the Ruger 10/22, it inherits a proven design, but like any rifle, it requires the right ammunition to perform at its best. In this article, we’ll explore the process of finding the ideal ammo for the BC-202 .22 WMR, focusing on the results from our latest testing.
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The BC-202 .22 WMR Overview
The BC-202 is designed to use factory Ruger 9-round magazines, making it a versatile option for those already invested in the 10/22 ecosystem. With its semi-automatic operation and chambering in .22 WMR, this rifle is well-suited for small game hunting, target shooting, and even varmint control. However, one challenge many users face with the .22 WMR platform is finding ammunition that balances accuracy, reliability, and affordability.
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Why Ammo Selection Matters
Unlike centerfire rifles, rimfire firearms like the BC-202 can be particularly sensitive to ammunition. Variations in bullet weight, velocity, and quality control between brands can significantly impact performance. Using the wrong ammo can lead to poor accuracy, inconsistent cycling, and even malfunctions. This makes testing multiple brands and types of ammunition a critical step for any new rifle owner.
Our Testing Process
In our latest video, we tested two popular .22 WMR options under controlled conditions: CCI Maxi-Mag 40gr and Winchester .22 WIN MAG 40gr. These rounds were evaluated based on cycling, and overall performance. Additionally, in a previous video, we found that Federal 50gr Game Shok was the most reliable ammunition tested so far. Here’s how we conducted the new tests:
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Ammo Selection: Focused on CCI Maxi-Mag 40gr JHP and Winchester .22 WIN MAG 40gr FMJ.
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Range Conditions: All testing was conducted at 135 yards using a sandbag rest for stability.
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Metrics: We monitored cycling reliability, and noted any malfunctions or feeding issues.
The Results
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CCI Maxi-Mag (40gr JHP): This ammo performed very well, producing consistent cycling with only one malfunction when using the factory Ruger 9-round magazine. This makes it a strong contender for general use in the BC-202.
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Winchester .22 WIN MAG (40gr FMJ): While budget-friendly, did not cycle as well as the CCI rounds. It showed occasional reliability issues, such as failure to eject, making it less dependable for consistent performance.
Insights from Previous Testing
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In an earlier video, we tested the Federal 50gr Game Shok, which proved to be the most reliable ammo for the BC-202 so far. It demonstrated consistent cycling and good accuracy, making it a standout choice for those prioritizing dependability. Notably, the consistency in cycling seemed dependent on smoothing the feed lips on both the 9-round and 15-round magazines.
Our Recommendation
Based on our current and previous testing, Federal 50gr Game Shok remains the most reliable option for the BC-202 .22 WMR. For those looking for excellent accuracy and consistent performance, CCI Maxi-Mag 40gr is an outstanding choice. While the Winchester .22 WIN MAG 40gr is a viable budget-friendly alternative, its reliability issues make it less ideal for critical applications. Again, the consistency in cycling seemed dependent on smoothing the feed lips on both the 9-round and 15-round magazines.
Tips for Optimizing Your BC-202
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Experiment with Different Brands: Every rifle has its preferences, so don’t be afraid to test additional options to see what works best for you.
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Keep Your Rifle Clean: Rimfire rifles are notorious for accumulating carbon buildup, which can impact performance. Regular cleaning is essential.
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Check Your Magazines: Ensure your Ruger 9-round and 15-round magazines are in good condition, as worn or dirty magazines can cause feeding issues. We filed and polished our feed lips and experienced a dramatic increase in cycling reliability
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Use Quality Optics: Pairing your BC-202 with a reliable scope will help you maximize accuracy during ammo testing and general use. For our testing, we used a Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x 44mm Rifle Scope
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Conclusion
The Bear Creek Arsenal BC-202 .22 WMR is a versatile and fun rifle, but getting the most out of it requires finding the right ammunition. Based on our testing, Federal 50gr Game Shok remains the most reliable, while CCI Maxi-Mag 40gr delivers excellent accuracy and reliability. By investing time in ammo testing and proper maintenance, we're going to unlock the full potential of this impressive rifle.
