Understanding the Contenders
The 223 WSSM
The sun dips low, painting the prairie grass in hues of orange and gold. A coyote, ears pricked, emerges from the shadows, its eyes gleaming with predatory intent. This is the moment. You raise your rifle, sight down the scope, and prepare to take the shot. This scenario, familiar to many varmint hunters and long-range enthusiasts, highlights the critical importance of choosing the right cartridge. Today, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison of two popular contenders in the world of high-velocity rifle rounds: the 223 WSSM (Winchester Super Short Magnum) and the 22-250 Remington. This comparison will help you, the shooter, make an informed decision about which of these rounds is best suited for your needs, from varmint hunting to target practice. We’ll explore the ballistics, accuracy, availability, and overall performance to give you a comprehensive understanding of these two powerful cartridges.
Let’s begin by introducing our two subjects. The 223 WSSM and 22-250 are both designed to propel .224-inch diameter bullets at incredibly high velocities. This commonality is where the similarities often end. Understanding the development history and key characteristics of each round provides a foundation for comparing their strengths and weaknesses.
The 223 WSSM arrived on the shooting scene with a bang, or rather, a very loud one. Designed by Winchester, it’s part of their “Super Short Magnum” series. The whole philosophy behind the WSSM design was to cram as much powder as possible into a relatively short cartridge. This innovative approach aimed at maximizing velocity, thereby producing exceptionally flat trajectories. This design, however, brings with it certain trade-offs, which we will explore later. The .223 WSSM typically uses a case design that is short and quite fat. This distinctive design helps in achieving the high velocities it is known for. Typically, the .223 WSSM is paired with relatively heavy for caliber bullets. This combination provides a good balance of velocity and terminal ballistics.
The 22-250 Remington
On the other hand, the 22-250 Remington, developed much earlier, enjoys a rich history. Born from the .250 Savage, the 22-250 was designed to offer a high-velocity, flat-shooting cartridge in a smaller package. The 22-250 Remington quickly gained popularity among varmint hunters and long-range shooters alike. The cartridge’s longer case design, unlike the short and fat WSSM, facilitates the burning of the powder. The 22-250 has become synonymous with its ability to send bullets with considerable speed and accuracy, making it a favorite for a wide variety of applications.
Ballistic Examination: Velocity, Trajectory, and Wind Drift
Velocity and Energy
Velocity is king in the realm of high-velocity cartridges. A higher muzzle velocity generally translates to a flatter trajectory and less wind drift. Let’s put the 223 WSSM and the 22-250 head-to-head on the ballistic range.
The 223 WSSM has a velocity edge. It’s designed for speed, and the case capacity allows for the higher powder charges needed to push bullets at impressive speeds. Bullets leaving the muzzle can routinely achieve velocities well over 4000 feet per second, depending on the bullet weight and load. This translates to less bullet drop at longer distances. The .223 WSSM’s high velocity is its calling card.
The 22-250 Remington, while still considered a fast cartridge, typically achieves muzzle velocities of around 3600 to 3900 feet per second, depending on the load and bullet weight. Although not as blisteringly fast as the .223 WSSM, the 22-250’s performance is still quite noteworthy.
Velocity also impacts the energy delivered downrange. The .223 WSSM, due to its higher speed, usually carries more energy at various ranges, which can enhance its terminal performance on target, whether that target be a prairie dog or a paper silhouette.
Trajectory
Trajectory is another critical factor. A flatter trajectory means less bullet drop at longer distances. The .223 WSSM’s higher velocity translates into a very flat trajectory. This allows shooters to have greater confidence in their ability to hit targets at longer ranges, because adjustments for bullet drop are minimized.
Wind Drift
Wind drift is the nemesis of the long-range shooter. Crosswinds can push bullets off course, especially at extended distances. Although higher velocity does not eliminate wind drift, it reduces its impact. The .223 WSSM’s high velocity helps mitigate wind drift, leading to better accuracy in windy conditions. The .22-250, while still relatively unaffected by wind, might show slightly greater drift at extreme ranges compared to the .223 WSSM.
Accuracy and Field Performance
Accuracy Potential
Beyond ballistics, accuracy is paramount. A high-velocity cartridge is only useful if it can consistently deliver bullets to the intended point of impact.
Both cartridges have the potential to be exceptionally accurate. The 22-250, particularly with good handloads and a quality rifle, is known for its inherent accuracy. Precision rifle manufacturers have refined the 22-250 for decades.
The .223 WSSM, when loaded carefully, can also achieve outstanding accuracy. The shorter, stiffer case of the .223 WSSM can, in theory, contribute to accuracy potential. However, achieving peak accuracy may require more attention to detail in reloading, and rifles with the proper chambering and twist rates are crucial for achieving its full potential.
Effective Range
Effective range is related to both ballistic performance and accuracy. The .223 WSSM, with its flatter trajectory and higher velocity, has a slight edge in terms of effective range, especially when using the correct bullet weight and type. It can reliably reach out and touch targets at longer distances, making it well-suited for varminting at extended ranges and precision target shooting.
The 22-250, though it may not match the maximum effective range of the .223 WSSM, can still be extremely effective at many common varmint hunting and target shooting distances. Its accuracy and manageable recoil make it a very versatile choice for a wide array of applications.
Barrel Life
Barrel life is a consideration. High-velocity cartridges tend to erode the barrel faster than slower rounds. The .223 WSSM, with its higher powder charges, may contribute to a slightly shorter barrel life compared to the 22-250. However, proper care and maintenance, along with using quality components, can help extend barrel life for both cartridges.
Availability and Cost: The Practicalities
Rifle Availability
The practical aspects of shooting are important. The availability and cost of rifles, ammunition, and reloading components play a crucial role in the overall shooting experience.
The 22-250 has a significant advantage in rifle availability. It has been a popular cartridge for many decades, and it is chambered in a wide variety of rifles from virtually every major manufacturer. This gives shooters a vast range of options in terms of price, features, and rifle type.
The .223 WSSM is less widely available. It is typically chambered in fewer models and from fewer manufacturers.
Ammunition and Reloading Components
Ammunition is also more readily available for the 22-250 Remington. Factory loads are widely available at most gun stores. The cost of factory ammunition tends to be reasonable for the 22-250.
The .223 WSSM can be a little more challenging to find on shelves. While factory loads do exist, the selection can be more limited. This can affect both the selection and the availability.
The cost of ammunition can also differ. Due to production quantities and popularity, the 22-250 might offer a slight cost advantage on factory loads.
Reloading offers a way to tailor loads to your specific rifle and shooting style. The 22-250 has a more extensive selection of reloading components, including brass, bullets, and powders. This gives reloaders greater flexibility in fine-tuning their loads. The .223 WSSM’s reloading components are available, but choices might be slightly limited in comparison.
Practical Applications: Putting Them to Work
Varmint Hunting
Let’s explore how each cartridge performs in the real world.
For varmint hunting, both cartridges excel. The 22-250 is a favorite of varmint hunters, earning a reputation for consistent performance on animals like coyotes, prairie dogs, and groundhogs. Its manageable recoil and widespread ammo availability make it a practical choice. The .223 WSSM, with its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, can provide an advantage at longer ranges. For varminting at extended distances or in windy conditions, the .223 WSSM may provide a slight edge.
Target Shooting
For target shooting, both cartridges can be effective. The 22-250 has a long history in target shooting and competitive events. Its inherent accuracy potential, when paired with a quality rifle and handloads, makes it a good option for long-range target shooting. The .223 WSSM can also perform well in precision target shooting.
Other Considerations
Other considerations involve handling characteristics. The .223 WSSM produces more recoil and muzzle blast than the 22-250. While not excessive, it can affect some shooters, particularly those new to the sport. Noise levels should also be considered, as the larger powder charges of the .223 WSSM typically mean a louder report.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Summary
223 WSSM
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons for each cartridge:
- **Pros:**
- Higher velocity, resulting in a flatter trajectory.
- Potentially greater effective range.
- **Cons:**
- Higher recoil and muzzle blast.
- Shorter barrel life, in general.
- More limited availability of rifles and ammunition.
22-250 Remington
- **Pros:**
- Well-established cartridge with a wide array of rifles and loads.
- Good accuracy potential.
- More readily available ammunition.
- **Cons:**
- Lower velocity compared to the .223 WSSM.
The Verdict
Choosing between the 223 WSSM and the 22-250 involves a careful assessment of your specific needs and priorities. If your primary concern is maximum velocity, long-range capability, and you are prepared to accept some trade-offs in recoil, noise, and barrel life, the .223 WSSM is a good choice. It provides the extra performance needed for certain challenging shooting scenarios.
However, if you value widespread availability, a great variety of rifles, manageable recoil, and the ability to easily find ammunition, the 22-250 Remington remains a superb choice. It’s a versatile cartridge that delivers excellent performance in a wide range of applications.
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your individual preferences, shooting style, and typical shooting environment. Both cartridges are capable of excellent performance, but their characteristics make them better suited for different shooters and shooting situations. Whichever you choose, be sure to practice responsible firearm handling and follow all safety regulations. Enjoy your time on the range or in the field! Remember to choose the ammunition that is right for your rifle, and have fun.
