.220 Swift vs .22-250 Remington: Which One is Right for You?

Hunting with Firearms
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Introduction

When it comes to varmint hunting, choosing the right caliber can make a significant difference in your success and the enjoyment of your experience. Today, let’s dive into a comparison between two popular cartridges: the .220 Swift and the .22-250 Remington. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision for your hunting needs.

Overview of Cartridges

  • .220 Swift: Known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, the .220 Swift is often a top choice for varmint hunters looking to cover distances swiftly.
  • .22-250 Remington: A versatile cartridge that balances speed, precision, and manageable recoil, making it a favorite among many hunters.

Ballistics Comparison

Velocity

One of the primary reasons hunters are drawn to these calibers is their impressive velocity:

  • .220 Swift can reach velocities around 4,200 fps, which can deliver a hard-hitting impact on small game.
  • .22-250 typically hovers around 3,600 fps, slightly less than the Swift but still impressive.

Accuracy

Accuracy is critical in hunting scenarios. Both cartridges perform well:

  • The .220 Swift’s flatter shooting trajectory allows for less holdover at extended ranges, making it easier for precision shooting.
  • The .22-250, while having a more pronounced drop at longer ranges, is still extremely accurate within 300 yards, especially with high-quality ammunition.

Practicality for Hunting

Both cartridges excel in varmint hunting, but they may suit different styles of hunting:

  • .220 Swift: Best utilized in open fields and long-range situations where its velocity and flat trajectory can shine. However, due to its intense speed, it can also result in more pelt damage, which can be a concern for fur hunters.
  • .22-250 Remington: Offers a good balance of speed and manageability, making it great for a variety of scenarios, including closer engagements where precise shot placement is crucial.

Advantages and Disadvantages

.220 Swift

Advantages:

  • High velocity leading to less bullet drop.
  • Excellent for long-range shooting.

Disadvantages:

  • Can cause more damage to fur.
  • Generally has a higher recoil than the .22-250, which may fatigue some shooters over prolonged sessions.

.22-250 Remington

Advantages:

  • Versatile and effective over various ranges.
  • Lower recoil makes it easier to shoot accurately.

Disadvantages:

  • Slightly less velocity than the .220 Swift, leading to more bullet drop at long distances.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the .220 Swift and the .22-250 Remington comes down to personal preference and hunting style. If you primarily hunt open fields and prioritize longer shots, the .220 Swift could be the better option. However, if you prefer a versatile cartridge that can handle various distances while providing manageable recoil, the .22-250 is likely the way to go.

What are your experiences with these cartridges? Do you have a preference? Let’s share our thoughts!

3 Likes
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I’ve shot both the .220 Swift and the .22-250, and the .220 Swift definitely has a higher velocity, often around 4000 fps with lighter bullets. It really shines for varmint hunting where long-range performance is key.

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That’s really interesting! I find the .22-250 offers slightly better energy retention at longer distances due to its heavier bullet weight, which can help with wind resistance.

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I’ve noticed the .22-250 has a flatter trajectory compared to the .220 Swift, especially under 300 yards. It helps a lot with accuracy when varmint hunting.

5

Totally agree! And the recoil on the .22-250 is generally more manageable for follow-up shots, which is crucial in fast-paced shooting situations.

6

Both cartridges are fantastic, but I lean towards the .22-250 for its versatility—it’s great for both varmint and medium game. Who else has experience with both?

7

I completely understand! Yet, I’ve seen some remarkable performances from the .220 Swift when it comes to long range. It really delivers out there.

8

I wonder how these cartridges perform in windy conditions. I’ve had some .22-250 rounds drift quite a bit past 300 yards.

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Good point! The .220 Swift’s higher velocity does help in maintaining a straighter shot. But I believe bullet construction plays a role too.

10

You guys are making this hard! I’m leaning towards the .22-250 but the .220 Swift sounds tempting for speed. Maybe I’ll get both?

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Why not? Variety is the spice of life! Just make sure to have plenty of ammo for both.

12

I’ve heard rumors that the .220 Swift is a bit finicky when it comes to barrel heating. Anyone else experienced that? Can be a pain during a long day at the range.

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Ha! Maybe the best choice is just to get both and have a fun day debating which one you love more afterward!

14

Honestly, that’s the perfect solution! Who doesn’t love some lively discussion over a day of shooting?

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That’s true! The .22-250 seems to handle heat better, which could be a reason to choose it for extended shooting sessions.

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At the end of the day, it’s really about personal preference and what you feel comfortable shooting. I’ve enjoyed both for different reasons!

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Both the .220 Swift and the .22-250 Remington are great cartridges, but they excel in different areas. The .220 Swift has a slight edge in speed, making it ideal for long-range varmint hunting. On the other hand, the .22-250 is often praised for its versatility in various shooting applications.

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I’ve had experience with both, and I find the .22-250 to be more manageable for shooting sports. It has less recoil and allows for quicker follow-up shots. This can be a game-changer during matches!

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While speed is important, the availability of ammunition also plays a role. The .22-250 is generally easier to find and less expensive, which is a strong consideration for someone who shoots regularly.

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That’s a solid point! The .220 Swift might shine in long-distance scenarios, but for someone just getting into target shooting, the .22-250 is a solid choice. It balances performance with accessibility.