The .22-250 Remington is a very high-velocity, short action cartridge that was used by the British and Australian militaries in the 1980s.
If you’re a hunting enthusiast, a competitive shooter, or simply a cartridge nerd, chances are you’ve come across the name 22-250. This cartridge packs a punch that surprises many — offering remarkable velocity and flat trajectories that make it a favorite in the shooting world. But what exactly makes the 22-250 so special? Let’s dive deep into the ins and outs of this legendary round.
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What Is the 22-250 Cartridge?
Simply put, the 22-250 Remington (commonly called 22-250) is a high-velocity rifle cartridge based on the .250-3000 Savage case, necked down to fit a .22 caliber bullet. It is designed to deliver extremely fast bullet speeds, making it highly effective for varmint hunting and long-range shooting.
History and Development of the 22-250
Originally developed in the 1930s as a wildcat cartridge by necking down the .250-3000 Savage case, the 22-250 didn’t see factory production until Remington officially adopted it in 1965. Since then, it has exploded in popularity, especially among hunters and competitive shooters who value its velocity and accuracy.
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Popularity and Usage Today
Today, the 22-250 is one of the most popular varmint cartridges in the United States. Its popularity extends beyond hunting—shooters appreciate its flat shooting capabilities and manageable recoil, making it a versatile choice.
Design and Specifications
The 22-250 features a rimless, bottlenecked case design that allows for high velocities. Some key specs include:
- Case length: 1.912 inches (48.56 mm)
- Overall length: 2.35 inches (59.7 mm)
- Bullet diameter: .224 inches (5.7 mm)
- Typical bullet weights: 40 to 55 grains
Case Dimensions
Its case design is optimized to hold enough powder to push lightweight bullets at extremely high speeds without excessive recoil. The shoulder angle and case taper contribute to reliable feeding in various rifle types.
Bullet Types and Weights
Common bullet weights range from 40 grains (for ultra-high velocity) to 55 grains (for better wind resistance). Popular bullet types include:
- Hollow point (HP)
- Soft point (SP)
- Boat tail (BT)
- Varmint-specific bullets with explosive tips
Ballistics and Performance
One of the biggest reasons shooters love the 22-250 is its exceptional ballistics.
Velocity and Energy
Typical muzzle velocities range between 3,600 and 3,800 feet per second (fps), delivering muzzle energies around 1,500 to 1,700 foot-pounds. This means bullets hit targets fast and with a lot of impact, especially on small to medium game.
Accuracy and Range
With proper load development, the 22-250 can deliver sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy, meaning shots can consistently land within roughly one inch at 100 yards. The cartridge’s flat trajectory makes it ideal for shooting at extended ranges—up to 400 yards or more for varmint hunting.
Comparison to Similar Cartridges
22-250 vs .223 Remington
The .223 Remington is lighter and has less recoil but also lower velocity and energy compared to the 22-250. While .223 is a standard for tactical and some hunting applications, the 22-250 outperforms it in long-range and varmint hunting due to its higher power and flatter trajectory.
22-250 vs .204 Ruger
The .204 Ruger boasts higher velocity and a flatter trajectory with very light bullets but tends to be less effective on slightly larger varmints compared to the 22-250. The 22-250 offers more bullet weight options and energy, making it a more versatile choice.
Ideal Applications
Hunting with the 22-250
The cartridge shines when hunting small to medium varmints such as coyotes, foxes, prairie dogs, and groundhogs. Its high velocity ensures quick, humane kills with minimal meat damage.
Target Shooting and Competition
The 22-250 is a favorite for varmint silhouette and precision rifle competitions thanks to its flat shooting and low recoil.
Tactical and Law Enforcement Use
Some tactical shooters and law enforcement snipers use 22-250 rifles for training and certain field roles where a lightweight, fast cartridge is advantageous.
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Choosing the Right Rifle for 22-250
Bolt-Action vs Semi-Automatic
Bolt-action rifles are popular for their accuracy and reliability with the 22-250. Semi-automatic rifles chambered in 22-250 exist but are less common due to the cartridge’s high pressure and case design.
Recommended Brands and Models
Well-known rifle makers like Remington, Savage, and Ruger offer quality 22-250 rifles. The Savage Model 12 and Remington Model 700 are often praised for their accuracy and value.
Ammunition Options and Reloading Tips
Factory Ammo Brands
Top factory ammo brands include Remington, Hornady, Federal, and Winchester, offering various loads tailored to hunting or target shooting.
Reloading Components and Load Data
Reloaders appreciate the 22-250’s versatility with powders like Hodgdon Varget and bullets ranging from 40 to 55 grains. Starting loads should be approached carefully, respecting published load manuals.
Safety Considerations
Due to its high pressures, always use reliable load data and never exceed recommended limits to ensure safety.
Pros and Cons of the 22-250
Advantages
- Extremely high velocity and flat trajectory
- Excellent for varmint hunting and precision shooting
- Manageable recoil despite power
- Wide availability of factory and reloading components
Limitations
- Not ideal for large game
- Ammo can be pricier than more common rounds like .223
- Limited semi-auto rifle options
Maintenance and Care for 22-250 Rifles
Cleaning Tips
Regular cleaning is key due to the cartridge’s high velocity and resulting fouling. Use quality solvents and brushes after every outing.
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Storage Advice
Store rifles in a cool, dry place with proper humidity control to maintain barrel life and rifle integrity.
Legal Considerations and Restrictions
Before purchasing or hunting with the 22-250, verify local regulations on caliber restrictions and hunting seasons, as these vary widely.
Conclusion
The 22-250 cartridge stands out as a powerful, accurate, and versatile option, especially for varmint hunters and precision shooters. Its flat trajectory, impressive velocity, and manageable recoil make it an excellent choice for those looking to hit targets with speed and precision. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just exploring options, the 22-250 offers a blend of performance and flexibility that’s hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the 22-250 good for deer hunting?
While primarily designed for varmints, some hunters use heavier 55-grain bullets on deer-sized game at close ranges, but it’s not ideal for larger game due to limited stopping power.
Q2: How does the recoil of the 22-250 compare to other cartridges?
The 22-250 has mild recoil, less than larger calibers like .243 Winchester, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Q3: Can I use 22-250 ammo in a .223 Remington rifle?
No. The cartridges are different in size and pressure. Always use the exact cartridge your rifle is chambered for.
Q4: What is the typical effective range of the 22-250?
Effective range extends up to 400 yards or more for varmint hunting with good shot placement.
Q5: Is reloading 22-250 ammunition difficult?
Not particularly. The cartridge is popular among reloaders, but it requires careful attention to pressure limits and powder choices.