As a long-time shooter and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve spent years exploring the nuances of various rifle cartridges. One family that consistently sparks interest – and often confusion – is the .222 Remington and its derivatives. The question "who makes a 222 rifle?" is a common one, and it’s often followed by inquiries about the differences between cartridges like the .221 Fireball and .223 Remington. This article aims to demystify this lineage, covering everything from rifle manufacturers to ammo availability and performance characteristics. We’ll delve into the 222 remington rifle, explore the 222 rem ammo landscape, and even touch on wildcat cartridges like the 7mm TCU and .223 Ackley Improved.
The Legacy of the .222 Remington
Introduced in 1950 by Remington, the .222 Remington was a groundbreaking cartridge. It was designed to deliver flat trajectories and excellent accuracy, making it ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting. Its popularity stemmed from its ability to consistently deliver sub-MOA performance with relatively light recoil. Initially, it was chambered primarily in the Remington Model 722 and 760 rifles. The .222 Remington quickly gained a reputation as a supremely accurate cartridge, and it remains a favorite among varmint hunters to this day. However, its reign as the top varmint cartridge was eventually challenged by the .223 Remington.
Why the .222 Remington Still Matters
Despite the rise of the .223, the .222 Remington hasn’t disappeared. Several factors contribute to its continued relevance:
- Accuracy: Many shooters still believe the .222 Remington offers a slight edge in inherent accuracy over the .223, particularly in older rifles.
- Ammo Availability (though limited): While not as readily available as .223, 222 rem ammo can still be found, though prices may be higher.
- Historical Significance: It’s a classic cartridge with a dedicated following.
- Wildcat Potential: The .222 Remington case has served as a parent case for numerous wildcat cartridges, expanding its influence.
.222 Remington vs. .223 Remington: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The .223 Remington, developed for the AR-15 platform, quickly became the dominant cartridge in the United States. Understanding the differences between the 222 remington rifle and its .223 counterpart is crucial. The primary difference lies in the cartridge case dimensions. The .223 Remington has a slightly longer case and a larger body diameter. This results in a slightly higher case capacity, allowing for a bit more powder and, generally, higher velocities.
| Characteristic | .222 Remington | .223 Remington |
|---|---|---|
| Case Length | 1.710 inches | 1.750 inches |
| Case Diameter | .358 inches | .378 inches |
| Typical Bullet Weight | 55-70 grains | 55-77 grains |
| Velocity (55gr bullet) | 3,200-3,400 fps | 3,250-3,500 fps |
While the velocity difference isn’t massive, it’s enough to give the .223 Remington a slight edge in range and energy. However, the .222 Remington often exhibits superior accuracy in rifles specifically chambered for it. The .223’s widespread adoption also means significantly greater ammo availability and a wider selection of rifles. The National Rifle Association (NRA) provides detailed ballistic information for both cartridges.
Exploring the .221 Fireball and Other Derivatives
The .222 Remington case has proven to be remarkably versatile, serving as the foundation for several wildcat cartridges. One of the most popular is the .221 Fireball. When comparing 221 fireball vs 223, the .221 Fireball is a shortened version of the .222 Remington, designed for even faster velocities and flatter trajectories in shorter barrels. It’s a favorite among prairie dog hunters. It’s important to note that the .221 Fireball typically requires custom reloading due to limited factory ammunition.
The .223 Ackley Improved: Pushing the Limits
The 223 ackley improved is another wildcat cartridge based on the .223 Remington case, but with a sharper shoulder angle and a slightly longer case length. This increases case capacity, allowing for higher velocities and improved ballistic performance. Like the .221 Fireball, it generally requires custom reloading. Reloading data resources are essential for these wildcat cartridges.
The 7mm TCU: A Versatile Option
The 7mm TCU (Tactical Carbine Unit) is a fascinating cartridge developed by Carmichael in the 1980s. It’s based on the .222 Remington case necked up to accept 7mm bullets. The 7mm tcu cartridge offers a good balance of velocity, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it suitable for short-range hunting and target shooting. It’s often used in AR-15 platforms with a barrel change. The 7mm TCU is another cartridge that typically requires custom reloading.
Who Makes a 222 Rifle Today?
Finding a new production who makes a 222 rifle can be challenging. Remington discontinued production of the Model 722 and 760 in .222 Remington some time ago. However, several options exist:
- Used Rifles: The most common way to acquire a .222 Remington rifle is to purchase a used Remington Model 722 or 760.
- Custom Rifles: Many custom rifle builders will chamber a rifle in .222 Remington.
- Savage Arms: Savage occasionally offers .222 Remington chamberings in their Model 110 and 112 rifles, but availability is limited.
- CZ-USA: CZ-USA sometimes offers .222 Remington chamberings in their rifles.
Before purchasing a used rifle, it’s crucial to have it inspected by a qualified gunsmith to ensure it’s in safe and proper working condition. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) offers resources on firearm safety and responsible gun ownership.
Ammo Considerations for the .222 Remington
As mentioned earlier, 222 rem ammo availability is limited compared to .223 Remington. Major manufacturers like Remington and Winchester occasionally produce .222 Remington ammunition, but it often sells out quickly. Expect to pay a premium for .222 Remington ammunition. Reloading is a viable option for those who want to ensure a consistent supply of ammunition and potentially improve accuracy. USA Firearms is a good resource for checking current ammo availability.
Responsible Shooting and Land Stewardship
Regardless of the cartridge you choose, responsible shooting practices are paramount. Always follow all applicable laws and regulations. Practice safe gun handling procedures. And, importantly, adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace (leavenotrace.org). This includes packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the environment. The USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov) provides information on shooting regulations and land use restrictions in national forests.
The .222 Remington and its derivatives represent a fascinating chapter in cartridge development. While the .223 Remington has largely eclipsed the .222 in terms of popularity, the .222 Remington remains a capable and accurate cartridge with a dedicated following. Understanding the nuances of this cartridge family will help you make an informed decision about which rifle and ammunition best suit your needs. Remember to prioritize safety, responsible shooting practices, and land stewardship in all your outdoor adventures.