Thread: The ‘controversial.222’

Im probably starting to repeat myself now...

Modern hand-loading and decent projectiles has made a big difference to the 222/223, and with the .223 faster twists and heavier bullets too.

When I started using Barnes 55 grn in my .223 I thought I had really hit pay dirt. But they are nothing compared to the 75-85 gr class target bullets (I use 77 Sierra TMK) at circa 2900 fps - I get good kills with them out to 300 yards.

But shot placement is still the most important factor. I prefer the crease shot unless I'm close enough for a confident neck shot. Even the lighter bullets I use on Wallaby do an OK job if you shoot with care as @southernman and @Hunter_Nick have demonstrated.

So I've shot 14 deer for 15 shots with my .223 so far this year. Mostly Fallow which are much easier to kill with the .223/.22 than Reds. The extra shot was a Red stag that I muffed the shot on and hit forward and low of the crease at 250 yards.

This is the from last week. 239 yards, 52 grn Targex bullet while chasing Wallaby. Typical blood shot damage (and bugger all energy - about 600 ft lb, so its physical damage and trauma that they rely on). It died on the spot quite quickly.

Originally Posted by Tahr

Im probably starting to repeat myself now...

Modern hand-loading and decent projectiles has made a big difference to the 222/223, and with the .223 faster twists and heavier bullets too.

When I started using Barnes 55 grn in my .223 I thought I had really hit pay dirt. But they are nothing compared to the 75-85 gr class target bullets (I use 77 Sierra TMK) at circa 2900 fps - I get good kills with them out to 300 yards.

But shot placement is still the most important factor. I prefer the crease shot unless I'm close enough for a confident neck shot. Even the lighter bullets I use on Wallaby do an OK job if you shoot with care as @southernman and @Hunter_Nick have demonstrated.

So I've shot 14 deer for 15 shots with my .223 so far this year. Mostly Fallow which are much easier to kill with the .223/.22 than Reds. The extra shot was a Red stag that I muffed the shot on and hit forward and low of the crease at 250 yards.

This is the from last week. 239 yards, 52 grn Targex bullet while chasing Wallaby. Typical blood shot damage (and bugger all energy - about 600 ft lb, so its physical damage and trauma that they rely on). It died on the spot quite quickly.

Attachment 154293
Attachment 154294

What action are you using the 77 grain pills in?

On the good old Sako Vixen a long 50 grain or regular 55 grain soft point is about the limit for the magazine box and well.

Originally Posted by caberslash

What action are you using the 77 grain pills in?

On the good old Sako Vixen a long 50 grain or regular 55 grain soft point is about the limit for the magazine box and well.

1:8 Tikka. Standard .223 mag @ 2.3" OAL. The 77 Sierra TMK are designed for short AR mags so work well seated in.

Originally Posted by Tahr

Im probably starting to repeat myself now...

Modern hand-loading and decent projectiles has made a big difference to the 222/223, and with the .223 faster twists and heavier bullets too.

When I started using Barnes 55 grn in my .223 I thought I had really hit pay dirt. But they are nothing compared to the 75-85 gr class target bullets (I use 77 Sierra TMK) at circa 2900 fps - I get good kills with them out to 300 yards.

But shot placement is still the most important factor. I prefer the crease shot unless I'm close enough for a confident neck shot. Even the lighter bullets I use on Wallaby do an OK job if you shoot with care as @southernman and @Hunter_Nick have demonstrated.

So I've shot 14 deer for 15 shots with my .223 so far this year. Mostly Fallow which are much easier to kill with the .223/.22 than Reds. The extra shot was a Red stag that I muffed the shot on and hit forward and low of the crease at 250 yards.

This is the from last week. 239 yards, 52 grn Targex bullet while chasing Wallaby. Typical blood shot damage (and bugger all energy - about 600 ft lb, so its physical damage and trauma that they rely on). It died on the spot quite quickly.

Attachment 154293
Attachment 154294

Picked up 30 77gr Match pills. How do they compare to the 77gr TMK. Heavier pill. Normally use BM2. Would 2208 be better?

Originally Posted by TeRei

Picked up 30 77gr Match pills. How do they compare to the 77gr TMK. Heavier pill. Normally use BM2. Would 2208 be better?

They are ok if you push them. I use 2206. Most people use 2208.