Author Topic: 223 vs 22mag (Read 534 times)

Jeffery8mm · « **on:** January 24, 2005, 04:17:44 AM »

What are the differences in the two rounds as far as ballistics and such. I understand that one is a rimfire and the other a centerfire, but what are the "shooting" differences??
Thanks
Jeff

Brett · « **Reply #1 on:** January 24, 2005, 04:23:51 AM »

There is no comparison the .223 blows the .22mag away in all respects, velocity, range, accuracy, and performance on critters.

Jeffery8mm · « **Reply #2 on:** January 24, 2005, 04:47:26 AM »

That is what I figured. The only reason I questioned it was I had a chance to buy a 22mag lever action. But since I have a 223 handi, I think I will pass on the 22mag.
Jeff

Hildy · « **Reply #3 on:** January 24, 2005, 11:54:45 AM »

However.....the 223 can be loaded down to 22 mag velocities AND use bullets with very similar BC's and designs as the 22 mag.

I have no idea on the powder charges needed (maybe around 10 grains), but there was a topic on here recently I think.

Try Sierra 45g Hornet or Hornady 35g V-Max for similar results as the 22 mag WITH a reduced 223 load. This is of course, if you are looking for less speed.

Also, a more comparable cartridge to the 22 mag would be a 22 Hornet or 218 Bee. These cartridges rival the 17HMR trajectory but do beat it by a margin. While the 22 mag still doesn't compare, they are much closer.