How about the .25 Auto?

[Jim B.]

Taking off from the recent thread about the 32 H&R Magnum as a squirrel caliber for the Encore - what about the .25 Auto for squirrels?  Is that totaly unrealistic in a carbine length barrel?  Anyone have any experience with this cartridge in carbine configuration?
Jim B.

[Jim B.]

I am definitely thinking of this as a "reload-only" proposition.  I am thinking that a little more could be extracted from the 25 ACP in a carbine than could be obtained in a small handgun.  The factory ballistics of about 850 fps with a 50 gr FMJ  could probably be bettered with some careful load development and lighter (cast) bullets.  I think you would end up with a reloadable .22 rimfire.  Seem doable?  Has anyone experimented with this?
Jim B.

"If you have to ask why, you wouldn't understand the answer."

[bpjon]

I too have dreamed of a reloadable equivalent to a 22lr.  I still have dreams about a Ruger Mark II in 25 or 32 acp.  What a bunny/squirrel gun that would be.  I think the 32ACP might be a better choice though.  Easier to load(especially for us fat-fingered folks), easier to cast for, and larger diameter.  

I guess one of us is just going to have to get in touch with a custom barrel maker ans have one made.  Unfortunately, I'm broke, so you'll have to step up to the plate :grin: .