The .22-250 Remington is a popular cartridge renowned for its flat trajectory and impressive long-range accuracy, making it a favorite among varmint hunters and precision shooters. Understanding the ballistics of a specific projectile, like a 55-grain bullet, is crucial for achieving optimal performance. This chart provides a comprehensive overview of 55-grain .22-250 ballistics, focusing on key factors influencing shot placement and effectiveness. Note: The data presented below is for illustrative purposes and may vary slightly depending on the specific bullet manufacturer, powder load, and environmental conditions (temperature, altitude, air pressure, and humidity). Always consult your ammunition's manufacturer's data for the most accurate information.
Understanding the Ballistics Chart
Before diving into the specifics, let's define the key ballistic terms you'll encounter:
- Muzzle Velocity (MV): The speed of the bullet as it leaves the barrel. Measured in feet per second (fps). Higher MV generally translates to flatter trajectory and longer range.
- Muzzle Energy (ME): The kinetic energy of the bullet at the muzzle. Measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs). Higher ME indicates greater impact force.
- Trajectory: The path of the bullet in flight. Flatter trajectories are desirable for longer-range shooting.
- Bullet Drop: The vertical distance the bullet falls from its line of sight at various distances.
- Wind Drift: The horizontal displacement of the bullet caused by wind.
- Energy at Range: The remaining kinetic energy of the bullet at various distances downrange.
Sample 55 Grain .22-250 Ballistics Data (Approximate)
This table presents approximate ballistic data for a 55-grain bullet fired from a .22-250 Remington rifle with a typical muzzle velocity. Remember, these values can vary.
| Distance (yards) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Bullet Drop (inches) | Wind Drift (inches) (10mph wind) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 (Muzzle) | 3800 | 1500 | 0 | 0 |
| 100 | 3400 | 1200 | -1.5 | 1 |
| 200 | 3050 | 950 | -6 | 4 |
| 300 | 2750 | 750 | -13.5 | 9 |
| 400 | 2450 | 600 | -24 | 16 |
| 500 | 2150 | 450 | -37 | 25 |
Factors Affecting Ballistics
Several factors influence the actual ballistic performance of your .22-250 ammunition:
- Ammunition Manufacturer: Different manufacturers produce bullets with varying ballistic coefficients (BC), influencing trajectory and wind drift.
- Rifle Barrel Twist Rate: The rate of twist affects bullet stability, impacting accuracy and range.
- Powder Charge: The amount of powder used directly impacts muzzle velocity and energy.
- Environmental Conditions: Temperature, altitude, humidity, and wind all significantly affect bullet flight.
Utilizing Ballistics Data for Accurate Shooting
Understanding ballistics is critical for accurate shooting. Using a ballistic calculator or a chart like the one above allows you to:
- Determine proper aiming point: Compensate for bullet drop at various ranges.
- Account for wind drift: Adjust your aim based on wind speed and direction.
- Select appropriate ammunition: Choose ammunition that meets your specific needs and range requirements.
This information provides a foundational understanding of 55-grain .22-250 ballistics. Always prioritize safety and consult reputable resources for accurate, up-to-date information before handling firearms or ammunition. Remember to always practice safe gun handling techniques at an approved shooting range.
