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Quick Look
The .22-250 Remington cartridge was developed in the 1930s for high-velocity varmint hunting. It offers a flat trajectory and excellent accuracy. Today, it remains popular for small game and varmint shooting due to its performance and availability.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Extremely high velocity for long-range accuracy
- Flat shooting with minimal bullet drop
- Widely available factory and handloading options
- Low recoil for quick follow-up shots
- Effective on small to medium varmints
Key Variants
.22-250 Remington — The standard factory cartridge favored for varmint hunting and target shooting.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | .22-250 Remington | .223 Remington | .243 Winchester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical MSRP (per 20 rounds) | $20–30 | $15–25 | $25–35 |
| Velocity (fps) | 3,500+ | 3,000–3,200 | 2,900–3,200 |
| Energy (ft-lb) | 1,400–1,600 | 1,200–1,300 | 1,500–1,600 |
| Recoil Level | Low | Low | Moderate |
| Notable Pro | High velocity & flat trajectory | Versatile military cartridge | Good for hunting medium game |
| Notable Con | Limited big-game suitability | Less velocity for long range | Higher recoil than .22-250 |
Best Use Cases
- Varmint and small-game hunting
- Long-range target shooting
- Range practice with low recoil
- Extended ballistic performance
- Precision varmint control
FAQs
Can I use .22-250 Ammo for self-defense?
The .22-250 is primarily designed for varmint hunting and not optimal for self-defense. It lacks the stopping power recommended for defensive scenarios.
What is the typical velocity of .22-250 Ammo?
Standard .22-250 Remington rounds reach velocities exceeding 3,500 feet per second, providing flat trajectory suitable for long-range shooting.
How does .22-250 Ammo compare to .223 Remington?
.22-250 offers higher velocity and flatter trajectory, while .223 Remington is more versatile and commonly used for defense and military applications.







