.22-250 Rem.

The .22-250 Remington cartridge has a storied history rooted in the need for high-velocity, flat-shooting small caliber rounds. Its origins trace back to the 1930s when wildcatters—innovative handloaders and gunsmiths—began experimenting by necking down the .250-3000 Savage case to accept .224-inch bullets. The result was an astonishingly fast varmint cartridge valued for delivering superior performance at long distances. It was an immediate hit among shooters who demanded precision and speed for coyote and groundhog hunting. In 1965, Remington standardized the cartridge, giving it mainstream appeal and broad availability, and renamed it the .22-250 Remington. Since then, it has remained a staple for reloading enthusiasts who appreciate its potential for customization and superb accuracy.

For ammunition reloaders, the .22-250 Remington offers unmatched versatility in a variety of shooting scenarios. Its high velocity—commonly approaching or exceeding 3,800 feet per second with lighter bullets—translates to a very flat trajectory, making it a favorite among varmint hunters striving to make accurate shots at extended ranges. Long-range competitive shooters also value the .22-250 for its minimal recoil and ability to deliver tight groups downrange. The cartridge's efficiency and performance have led to its adoption in benchrest communities and among those seeking precision in target shooting. Reloader-friendly characteristics such as plentiful brass, consistent case dimensions, and a wide selection of bullet weights further make it a popular choice for those seeking to develop highly tailored and accurate handloads.

Target species for the .22-250 Remington reflect its high-velocity, small-caliber nature. Most commonly, it’s used to hunt varmints like groundhogs, prairie dogs, and coyotes, where its flat shooting and high energy deliver clean, ethical kills at considerable distances. While some hunters have used the .22-250 for deer-sized game, the cartridge is generally not recommended for larger animals because of its lighter bullet weights and limited terminal energy compared to larger calibers. However, for small predators, pest control, and recreational shooting at ranges extending to several hundred yards, the .22-250 provides outstanding effectiveness, making it a go-to favorite for predator hunters and those managing nuisance wildlife populations.

Ammunition reloaders working with the .22-250 Remington typically encounter a broad range of bullet weights and options, allowing significant flexibility in load development. Typical bullet weights range from 35 to 60 grains, with 40- to 55-grain bullets being the most popular choices for varmint hunting due to their extremely high velocities and explosive terminal effects. For those seeking improved ballistic coefficients and slightly increased penetration on larger predators, heavier bullets up to 70 grains are sometimes used. The .22-250 cartridge is well known for its excellent neck tension, generous powder capacity, and ability to be fine-tuned for different applications. Most reloading manuals provide ample data for a range of powders, with many reloaders favoring medium-burning powders like Varget, H380, and IMR 4064 for consistent accuracy and velocity. Additionally, the .22-250 Remington’s modest recoil and barrel life—while generally good, though fast twist barrels and high-velocity loads can accelerate wear—make it a practical option for high-volume shooters who value both performance and precision.