What is a 22 250 Rifle?
The.22-250 Remington, commonly known as the 22 250, is a rimfire cartridge developed by Remington Arms Company in the 1930s. It is a popular cartridge among varmint hunters and target shooters, known for its flat trajectory, low recoil, and high-velocity performance. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and uses of the 22 250 rifle.
History
The.22-250 Remington was developed by Remington Arms Company in the early 1930s as a replacement for the earlier.22 caliber cartridges, which were used for target shooting and small game hunting. The 22 250 was designed to offer a more effective and versatile cartridge for hunters and shooters, with a higher muzzle velocity and better accuracy. The cartridge was initially popular among varmint hunters and target shooters, and has since become a staple in many firearms collections.
Characteristics
The.22-250 Remington is a rimfire cartridge that measures 2.54 inches (64.5 mm) in length and has a diameter of 0.22 inches (5.56 mm). It has a 40-grain (2.59 g) bullet and is loaded with 25 grains (1.61 g) of ball powder, giving it a muzzle velocity of approximately 3,900 feet per second (1,190 m/s). The cartridge has a flat trajectory, making it effective at ranges up to 200 yards (183 meters) or more, depending on the shooter and the wind conditions.
Here are the key characteristics of the 22 250 rifle:
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 inches (5.56 mm) |
| Case length | 2.54 inches (64.5 mm) |
| Bullet weight | 40 grains (2.59 g) |
| Powder charge | 25 grains (1.61 g) |
| Muzzle velocity | approximately 3,900 feet per second (1,190 m/s) |
Uses
The 22 250 rifle is a versatile cartridge that can be used for a variety of applications, including:
- Varmint hunting: The 22 250 is a popular choice among varmint hunters, as its high velocity and flat trajectory make it effective at distances up to 200 yards (183 meters) or more.
- Target shooting: The 22 250 is often used for target shooting competitions, where its accuracy and flat trajectory make it an ideal cartridge.
- Plinking: The 22 250 is also a popular choice among plinkers, who enjoy the cartridge’s high velocity and accuracy for shooting at distant targets.
- Hunting: The 22 250 can also be used for hunting larger game, such as coyotes and rabbits, particularly at closer ranges.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The 22 250 rifle has both advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before choosing a cartridge:
Advantages:
- High muzzle velocity: The 22 250 has a high muzzle velocity, making it effective at long ranges and providing a flatter trajectory.
- Accuracy: The 22 250 is known for its accuracy, making it an ideal choice for target shooters and hunters.
- Low recoil: The 22 250 has relatively low recoil, making it easy to handle and shoot, even for beginners.
- Versatility: The 22 250 can be used for a variety of applications, including varmint hunting, target shooting, and hunting larger game.
Disadvantages:
- Limited availability: The 22 250 is not as widely available as other cartridges, which can make it more difficult to find ammunition and reload.
- Limited compatibility: The 22 250 is designed for use in specific rifles, which may not be compatible with all firearms.
- High velocity: While the 22 250’s high velocity is an advantage, it can also be a disadvantage, particularly for shooters who are sensitive to recoil.
- Reloading difficulties: Reloading the 22 250 can be more difficult than reloading other cartridges, due to the cartridge’s unique design and the requirements for proper headspace and alignment.
Conclusion
The 22 250 rifle is a versatile and effective cartridge that has a long history and a reputation for accuracy and reliability. While it may have its limitations, the 22 250 is a popular choice among varmint hunters, target shooters, and plinkers, and is an ideal cartridge for those who are looking for a high-powered, yet manageable, rifle cartridge.
