A Glance at the .223 WSSM
History and Development
The .223 WSSM, introduced in the early part of the new millennium, represents a modern approach to cartridge design. Born from the Winchester Super Short Magnum family, it’s characterized by its stubby, relatively wide case. This design allows for a larger powder capacity packed into a compact package, leading to the potential for impressive velocities. The development of the .223 WSSM was a direct response to the desire for even flatter trajectories and increased muzzle velocity, building upon the .223 Remington’s already established capabilities. This desire stemmed from a demand for longer effective ranges and improved wind resistance, characteristics that were particularly attractive to varmint hunters and long-range target shooters.
Case Design and Dimensions
The .223 WSSM, designed around the same .224-inch bullet diameter, utilizes a neck, shoulder, and base dimension that differentiates it from other .22 centerfires. This unique configuration necessitates rifles specifically chambered for this cartridge. Shooters interested in this round will often find them built on short-action platforms, enhancing overall rifle compactness and handling.
Bullet Selection
When it comes to bullet selection, the .223 WSSM often thrives with lighter-weight bullets, often ranging from fifty to sixty-five grains. These projectiles are ideal for achieving the maximum velocities this cartridge is capable of. However, it’s crucial to find the right bullet weight and design for your specific shooting needs, taking into account factors like intended range, target size, and wind conditions. With its increased case capacity, the .223 WSSM has the potential to push these projectiles to velocities considerably higher than the .223 Remington. This advantage translates directly into flatter trajectories, reduced wind drift, and increased energy downrange.
Unveiling the .22-250 Remington
History and Development
The .22-250 Remington has a legacy that extends back to the early 20th century, though it gained widespread popularity in the latter half of the 20th century. Originally a wildcat cartridge based on the .250-3000 Savage case, it was officially adopted by Remington Arms in the mid-1960s. The .22-250 Remington quickly became a favorite among varmint hunters due to its impressive ballistic performance and accuracy potential. Its success is a testament to the effectiveness of the concept of combining a small-diameter bullet with a high-velocity cartridge.
Case Design and Dimensions
The .22-250 uses a standard .224-inch bullet diameter, and its longer case design is well-suited for burning a range of propellants, offering significant flexibility in load development. This cartridge has seen consistent popularity, and this longevity can be attributed to its well-balanced design, excellent accuracy potential, and wide availability.
Bullet Selection
The .22-250 Remington generally performs well with a broader range of bullet weights, from forty-five to sixty-five grains. This versatility makes it a viable option for a wider array of targets. The selection of bullet weights is often determined by the twist rate of the rifle’s barrel and the shooter’s specific needs. Higher twist rates (e.g., 1:12 or faster) tend to stabilize heavier bullets, which can deliver greater downrange energy, and resist wind drift better.
A Ballistic Battleground
The real test of these two cartridges lies in their ballistic performance, and the best way to understand that is through a careful comparison of their trajectories, velocities, and energy levels.
Muzzle Velocity
Muzzle velocities are often the first thing shooters notice when comparing cartridges. The .223 WSSM, due to its larger case capacity, typically boasts higher muzzle velocities than the .22-250, often by a margin of several hundred feet per second (fps). This advantage becomes more pronounced when using lighter-weight bullets, where the WSSM’s design shines. For instance, a fifty-grain bullet fired from a .223 WSSM can easily achieve muzzle velocities exceeding the .22-250 by several hundred fps. However, the gap may be reduced when shooting heavier bullets, with both cartridges coming close in performance.
Trajectory
Trajectory is a crucial consideration, especially at extended ranges. The flatter trajectory of the .223 WSSM results in less bullet drop at various distances, making it slightly easier to achieve first-round hits at longer ranges. This flatness translates to less holdover or dial-up needed on the scope. A flatter trajectory means less guesswork when targeting moving animals or in windy conditions.
Energy at Impact
Energy at impact is another important factor. Higher muzzle velocity translates into increased energy, which means that the .223 WSSM often delivers more energy downrange, providing a more decisive impact on the target. This advantage could be helpful when engaging targets that are tougher to penetrate. However, it’s essential to understand that the ballistic coefficient of the bullet also plays a significant role in energy retention.
Wind Drift
Wind drift, a critical factor in accurate long-range shooting, is influenced by both muzzle velocity and bullet ballistic coefficient (BC). While the .223 WSSM’s higher velocity can help to mitigate wind drift to some extent, the .22-250, with its wider selection of heavier bullets (which also tend to possess higher BCs), can also be a good option. Choosing the right bullet is critical.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
The true measure of a cartridge is its performance in the field. Let’s examine how these two cartridges stack up in practical applications.
Varmint Hunting
Varmint hunting is where both cartridges truly shine. The .223 WSSM, with its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, excels in reaching out to distant prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small varmints. The .22-250 Remington, however, maintains its position as a workhorse in the world of varmint hunting, offering excellent accuracy and a slightly wider range of available bullet weights that may be better suited for larger varmint species. The .22-250’s widespread availability makes it easy to find ammunition, even in remote areas.
Target Shooting
For target shooting, both cartridges are also effective. The .22-250 has long been a favorite for benchrest shooting and other target disciplines due to its inherent accuracy potential. While the .223 WSSM can also deliver impressive accuracy, the .22-250 often has the edge in terms of recoil (being slightly less), and the broader availability of match-grade ammunition.
Long-Range Shooting
While either cartridge can be used for longer-range shooting, the .22-250 has an advantage. The .22-250 is more easily adapted for longer ranges, as it’s more common to find match-grade ammunition.
Rifle Availability and Price Considerations
One key factor to consider when choosing between these cartridges is the availability of rifles. The .22-250 enjoys a distinct advantage in this area. It’s been around for a long time, and is chambered in a massive variety of rifles from many manufacturers. This widespread availability translates to a greater range of options in terms of rifle styles, price points, and features.
The .223 WSSM, on the other hand, is a somewhat rarer cartridge, and rifles chambered for it can be slightly more difficult to find. Because the .223 WSSM is chambered in a more limited selection of rifles, it has a higher potential for being a more expensive round, due to its niche market.
When considering the cost, the .223 WSSM’s components often demand a premium due to its lower demand. Although, this can vary, based on retailer, bullet options, and overall demand.
Other Important Considerations
Besides the ballistic and practical performance, other factors should influence your choice. Recoil is a factor, and both cartridges offer relatively light recoil, making them suitable for shooters of all experience levels. However, the .22-250 may have slightly less felt recoil due to lower powder loads.
Noise levels are similar between the cartridges, and both require hearing protection.
Barrel life is an important aspect to evaluate. High-velocity cartridges, such as these, tend to wear out barrels faster than lower-velocity rounds. The .22-250 Remington has a slight advantage here, but the rate of wear depends on numerous factors, including barrel quality, rate of fire, and cleaning practices.
Ammunition availability is critical. The .22-250 Remington has a broader selection of factory loads, making it much easier to find ammunition in various bullet weights and types. The .223 WSSM, while supported by many manufacturers, does not have the same breadth of load options.
A Comparative Analysis
Pros of the .223 WSSM:
- Higher Muzzle Velocity: Delivering a flatter trajectory and improved downrange energy.
- Excellent for Long-Range Varminting: Very effective for reaching out to smaller targets.
Cons of the .223 WSSM:
- Limited Rifle Availability: Fewer rifle choices compared to the .22-250 Remington.
- Higher Ammunition Costs: Often more expensive than .22-250 ammunition.
Pros of the .22-250 Remington:
- Wider Rifle Selection: Numerous rifle options available from many manufacturers.
- More Affordable Ammunition: Greater availability and lower cost of factory ammunition.
- Strong Accuracy: Consistently delivers great accuracy for target shooting.
Cons of the .22-250 Remington:
- Lower Muzzle Velocity: Compared to the .223 WSSM, slightly lower muzzle velocity.
Making the Right Choice
The choice between .223 WSSM and .22-250 Remington ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
If your primary focus is varmint hunting at longer ranges and you value a flatter trajectory and higher energy downrange, the .223 WSSM might be the better choice, if you’re willing to contend with the price and availability.
If you prioritize a greater selection of rifles, lower ammunition costs, and a broader selection of factory loads, the .22-250 is the more practical option. It’s a proven performer, easy to find, and provides outstanding accuracy, making it ideal for a variety of shooting applications.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which cartridge is the right fit is to try both and see which one feels more natural. Consider the shooting applications you’ll have, the type of hunting you’ll be doing, and the type of conditions you’ll be shooting in.
In Conclusion
The .223 WSSM and the .22-250 Remington both offer impressive performance in the world of centerfire cartridges. The .223 WSSM provides the advantages of its high velocity, flatter trajectory, and substantial downrange energy. The .22-250 Remington, with its broader rifle selection and ammunition availability, is a workhorse that has stood the test of time. Both cartridges excel in their respective areas. Regardless of your choice, you can be sure you’ve selected a cartridge that is well-respected and capable of delivering exceptional performance on the range and in the field.
