NRA Gun of the Week: Magnum Research Barracuda .22 WMR MLR

by
posted on September 19, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Nearly 10 years ago Sturm, Ruger & Co. ceased production of its venerable 10/22 rifle chambered in .22 WMR, but it surely didn’t leave the market dry. Magnum Research, Inc. was there to pick up the slack, offering its own line of 10/22 rifle-clones and chambering quite the variety of rimfire cartridges. Featured this week is the MLR22WMBW Barracuda—one of the most potent of rimfires available—.22 WMR, a departure from Magnum Research's most notable associations, the Desert Eagle .50 AE and BFR (Biggest Finest Revolver).

The MLR (Magnum Lite Rifle) offers features most would expect to see out of a high-end production rimfire. A fully CNC-machined aluminum receiver with integrated Weaver-style rail is the basis of the platform. Attached is a stainless steel and composite graphite wrapped barrel to deliver pinpoint accuracy whether used for plinking or small-game hunting. Ammunition is fed by a detachable, rotary, nine-round capacity magazine and fired by a very clean single-stage trigger. A uniquely shaped, American black walnut stock wraps the barreled action and gives the MLR its name, “Barracuda.” Weighing in at a light 4.45 lbs. the price tag feels a bit heavier at an MSRP of $941. For more information, visit magnumresearch.com.

Manufacturer: Magnum Research, Inc
Model: MLR22WMBW Barracuda
Caliber:
 .22 WMR
Action: semi-automatic rimfire rifle
Frame: anodized aluminum
Barrel: 19” stainless steel/graphite with 11-degree muzzle crown
Rifling: six-groove, 1:16” RH twist
Magazine: nine-round-capacity; detachable, rotary magazine 
Sights: none; integral Weaver-style scope base
Trigger: single-stage: 4-lb., 4.-oz. pull
Stock: American black walnut, Barracuda-style 
Overall Length: 37 9/16”
Weight: 4.45 lbs
Accessories: owner’s manual, cable lock
MSRP: $941

For more on Magnum Research, please enjoy the following articles:

Nine Things You Didn't Know About the Desert Eagle
Magnum Research Desert Eagle 1911U
NRA Gun of the Week: Magnum Research BFR
The Magnum Research Desert Eagle .50 
Magnum Research Baby Desert Eagle
Magnum Research Lightweight Desert Eagle
Magnum Research Mark XIX Desert Eagle
Desert Eagle Mark XIX

Latest

Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web
Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web

Gun Of The Week: Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine

This week, we're on the range with the Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine, a rimfire variant of the AR-15 that's designed for reliability and gives enthusiasts a way to shoot affordably.

The Armed Citizen® July 11, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Japanese Last-Ditch Small Arms Of World War II

The crude assortment of fighting tools used by the Japanese during World War II give clues of an unprepared and unmatched last-ditch fight that ultimately lead to Allied victory.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors.

2025 Optic Of The Year: Burris Eliminator 6

Even as new generation after new generation of Burris Eliminator continued to add more advanced technology and functionality, it remained odd-looking—until the launch of this year’s sixth-generation product, which is the first in the line that can mount atop a rifle using standard 34 mm scope rings.

I Have This Old Gun: Star Model B

Of the many Spanish-made firearms to emerge throughout the 19th and 20th century, one of the most recognizable is the Star Model B, largely due to its similarity to the Colt Model 1911.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.