22-250 Ballistics Chart: 55 Grain Projectile Performance
The .22-250 Remington is a popular cartridge known for its flat trajectory and high velocity, making it a favorite among varmint hunters and long-range shooters. Understanding the ballistics of a specific bullet weight, like the 55-grain projectile, is crucial for accurate shot placement and successful hunting or target practice. This chart provides a detailed overview of the expected ballistics for a 55-grain bullet fired from a .22-250 Remington. Remember that these values are estimates and can vary based on several factors, including:
- Specific bullet manufacturer and design: Different manufacturers produce bullets with varying ballistic coefficients (BC), impacting their flight characteristics.
- Rifle twist rate: The rifling twist rate in your barrel influences bullet stability and accuracy.
- Powder charge and type: Variations in powder load affect muzzle velocity significantly.
- Environmental conditions: Temperature, air pressure, humidity, and wind all influence bullet trajectory.
Note: This data is for illustrative purposes only and shouldn't be considered a substitute for real-world testing and personal data logging at your range. Always practice safe firearm handling procedures and consult your firearm's manual for appropriate ammunition.
Sample Ballistics Chart (55 Grain Bullet from .22-250 Remington)
This chart presents theoretical data assuming a muzzle velocity of 3800 fps (feet per second). Actual results may vary.
| Distance (yards) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Drop (inches) | Wind Drift (10 mph crosswind, inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 (Muzzle) | 3800 | 1300 | 0 | 0 |
| 100 | 3300 | 950 | -1 | 4 |
| 200 | 2850 | 700 | -7 | 14 |
| 300 | 2450 | 500 | -18 | 28 |
| 400 | 2100 | 350 | -36 | 46 |
| 500 | 1800 | 250 | -60 | 70 |
Understanding the Chart Columns:
- Distance (yards): The distance from the muzzle in yards.
- Velocity (fps): The bullet's speed in feet per second at the given distance.
- Energy (ft-lbs): The remaining kinetic energy of the bullet in foot-pounds.
- Drop (inches): The amount the bullet drops below the line of sight. Negative values indicate a drop below the point of aim.
- Wind Drift (inches): The horizontal deflection of the bullet due to a 10 mph crosswind.
Factors Affecting Ballistics
As mentioned earlier, several factors influence the actual ballistics of your .22-250 Remington with a 55-grain bullet. Careful consideration of these variables is essential for accurate shooting:
- Bullet Construction: The bullet's design, including its shape, material, and BC, dramatically impacts its trajectory and flight stability.
- Atmospheric Conditions: High altitude, temperature, and humidity can all affect bullet performance. Ballistic calculators often incorporate these factors for more accurate predictions.
- Rifle Barrel Condition: A clean, well-maintained barrel is crucial for consistent accuracy.
Conclusion
This information provides a general understanding of the ballistic performance you can expect from a 55-grain bullet fired from a .22-250 Remington. To obtain the most accurate ballistic data for your specific setup, consult with experienced reloaders, use a ballistic calculator incorporating your specific bullet characteristics and environmental conditions, and most importantly, practice at your range to gather empirical data. Remember that safety is paramount when handling firearms.
