I have experienced quite a drop in 22 mag. velocities between rifles and pistols. Are there any manufacturers of 22 mag. ammo that use faster powders so that I might get higher velocities in pistols?
thanks, peter.

I think you'll find the velocity loss with most brands of ammunition fairly proportional, so starting out at a higher velocity would seem to be the only way to end up with more velocity.

The fastest standard weight (40 grain) ammunition I've chronographed is RWS. It is expensive and hard to find, however it is the most accurate of any made in my particular gun. Your mileage may vary.

Thanks Stonecreek. I have not tried RWS 22mag ammo yet.
Peter

Here is some data:

http://www.ruger1022.com/docs/22lrballistics.htm

http://www.gunblast.com/AMT-AutoMagII.htm

From a revolver, the velocity drop is significant when compared to a .22 Magnum rifle. However, in a Contender or other firearm without the velocity-robbing barrel-cylinder gap, you'll get remarkably close to rifle-type speeds given 12-14" of barrel length.

Stonecreek is right about the RWS ammo. It is the fastest 40 grainer I have tried and has shown exceptional accuracy in a number of guns. But the deterrent is price and availability.

The fastest 22 WRM load overall that I have tried is the 35 grain V-Max load from Outland Sales. The MV is rated at 2365 fps but was actually faster by around 30 fps in the one rifle I tried it in. But it's also very pricey, and I thought I would never get my order (took more than 2 months and had zero communication from them until the very end).

Your best bet may be to swap out for a few different loads with your buddies and see what your pistol shoots best. It may turn out that the load showing the highest velocity in your gun may be far from the most accurate as every firearm is a rule unto itself.

I think I was getting a little over 1500 fps out of my pistol with the 40 grain ammo. I have not chrono'ed the newer stuff with the lighter bullets (yet).
Peter.